$34.28 - $35.70/hr
... use of forensic light sources. OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS: * Maintain an accurate inventory of all ... Ability to work shift work that may include daytime, evening, or overnight hours. * Ability to work ...
$34.28 - $35.70/hr
... use of forensic light sources. OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS: * Maintain an accurate inventory of all ... Ability to work shift work that may include daytime, evening, or overnight hours. * Ability to work ...
Overnight Ballistics Forensic information
See salary details
$43.5K - $69.1K
12% of jobs
$84.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$69.1K - $94.7K
22% of jobs
The median wage is $106.7K / yr.
$94.7K - $120.3K
35% of jobs
$127.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$120.3K - $145.9K
24% of jobs
$145.9K - $171.5K
1% of jobs
$171.5K - $197K
1% of jobs
$197K - $222.6K
1% of jobs
$222.6K - $248.2K
1% of jobs
$248.2K - $273.8K
1% of jobs
$273.8K - $299.4K
1% of jobs
$299.4K - $325K
1% of jobs
$43.5K
$128.4K
$325K
How much do overnight ballistics forensic jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for overnight ballistics forensic in the United States is $128,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is an overnight ballistics forensic?
Overnight Ballistics Forensics specialists are forensic scientists who focus on analyzing firearms, ammunition, and ballistic evidence, typically working during overnight shifts. Their responsibilities include examining bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residues to determine the type of weapon used and link evidence to specific firearms or crime scenes. Working overnight ensures continuous processing of urgent cases and supports law enforcement investigations that require immediate results. These professionals often use specialized equipment and databases to compare ballistic evidence, helping to solve crimes and support legal proceedings.
What are some common challenges faced by overnight ballistics forensic professionals, and how can they be managed?
Overnight Ballistics Forensic professionals often encounter the challenge of working irregular hours, which can affect work-life balance and require strong time-management skills. Additionally, they must maintain focus and precision during late-night shifts, as their analyses directly impact criminal investigations. Effective stress management, strong communication with team members, and adherence to established protocols can help address these challenges. Collaborating closely with other forensic specialists and law enforcement ensures accuracy and supports timely case resolution.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an overnight ballistics forensic?
To thrive as an Overnight Ballistics Forensic Analyst, you need a solid background in forensic science, ballistics analysis, and evidence handling, usually supported by a degree in forensic science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, ballistic databases like NIBIN, and specialized forensic software is crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written communication are standout soft skills for effectively documenting and presenting findings. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate, reliable analysis and support the integrity of criminal investigations during overnight shifts.
What is the difference between Overnight Ballistics Forensic vs Crime Scene Investigator?
| Aspect | Overnight Ballistics Forensic | Crime Scene Investigator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Forensic science degree, firearm analysis certification | Criminal justice or forensic science degree, crime scene processing training |
| Work Environment | Laboratories, firearm analysis labs, forensic facilities | Crime scenes, outdoor and indoor locations, forensic labs |
| Employer & Industry | Law enforcement agencies, forensic labs | Police departments, law enforcement agencies |
| Primary Focus | Ballistic evidence analysis, firearm matching | Crime scene documentation, evidence collection, scene reconstruction |
Overnight Ballistics Forensic specialists focus on analyzing firearm evidence and matching bullets or casings, often working in labs. Crime Scene Investigators, however, handle broader scene processing, collecting evidence and reconstructing crimes. Both roles require forensic training but differ in daily tasks and work environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ballistics Forensic jobs? The most popular types of Ballistics Forensic jobs are:
What states have the most Overnight Ballistics Forensic jobs? States with the most job openings for Overnight Ballistics Forensic jobs include:
City Of Arlington (Texas) rating
7.4
Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
570th of 842 rated public administrative organizations
Job description
SALARY
$34.28 - $35.70JOB SUMMARY
Under general supervision, conducts all phases of crime scene investigations which include collecting, analyzing, identifying and preserving all evidence for law enforcement personnel.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Investigate crime scenes on-site by documenting, processing and collecting evidence according to established standards.
Collaborate with other investigators, officers, detectives, and other departments and/or agencies to ensure a thorough crime scene investigation is completed.
Present physical evidence and documentation in court and to testify to the results of any analysis and tasks performed.
Complete accurate, clear, and concise crime scene reports and lab processing reports through case management.
Develop latent fingerprints using appropriate sequential physical and/or chemical processes.
Preserve and recover developed latent fingerprints using physical, photographic, and/or electronic imaging techniques, to include the use of forensic light sources.
OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:
Maintain an accurate inventory of all supplies and equipment.
Assist in planning and implementing programs for schools and occasionally participating as an instructor on crime scene techniques.
Ability to perform other related duties as required or directed.
Knowledge of latent print comparison and automated search is desirable but not required.
Knowledge of NIBIN entry procedures is desirable but not required.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
Knowledge of office and administrative practices and procedures.
Skill in using PC Software including current Microsoft Office Suite of applications.
Skill in communicating professionally and tactfully with others, both orally and in writing.
Strong written and verbal English communication skills, including proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Ability to receive detailed information through oral and written communication.
Skill with organization and attention to detail.
Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment utilizing knowledge of the organization's policies.
Ability to perform a variety of physical skills including but not limited to filing, pulling, seeing, sorting, squatting, standing, stooping, twisting body, typing, walking, and writing.
Ability to prioritize deadlines and tasks.
Ability to learn new systems and procedures quickly.
Ability to plan, organize, monitor, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to accomplish unit objectives.
Ability to understand mathematical calculations involving fractions, percentages, and decimals.
Ability to work within a set schedule.
Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with other City employees and citizens.
Ability to respond to emergency situations after hours, weekends, holidays and on an on-call basis.
Ability to work shift work that may include daytime, evening, or overnight hours.
Ability to work and maintain composure in violent and/or death scene investigations.
Ability to lift heavy items (up to 50 pounds), stand, walk, speak clearly, listen attentively, and occasionally speak/hear over the sound of traffic.
Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in various, possibly hostile, environments and weather conditions.
Ability to operate a computer, telephone, copier/printer digital cameras, laser measuring devices, flatbed scanner, two-way radio, and a variety of office equipment.
Ability to operate a motorized vehicle.
Ability to work independently or as part of a team, under general instructions.
Qualifying Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or any of the natural sciences (for crime laboratory chemistry position), or related field.
Possession of a valid Texas Operator's License, Class C.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
Knowledge of crime scene evidence and collecting techniques and record keeping systems.
Knowledge of the preservation of physical evidence.
Knowledge of personal protective equipment and the safe handling of body fluids and hazardous materials.
Knowledge of State and local laws and regulations governing the maintenance and release of police evidence and records.
Skill in preparing high quality crime scene diagrams.
Skill in operation, calibration, and maintenance of crime scene equipment.
Ability to maintain proficiency in crime scene photography, including specialized techniques and forensic light sources.
Preferred Education and Experience:
Two (2) or more years' experience as a Crime Scene Investigator or related field.
Certified Latent Print Examiner (LPE).
National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) operator.
Employment Screenings Required:
Criminal background check
CJIS Criminal background check
Drug and Alcohol screening
City of Arlington is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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