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Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harris County

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX · On-site

... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ... Provides expert testimony in criminal and civil court matters relating to neuropathology and ...

Harris County, TX

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX · On-site

... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ... Provides expert testimony in criminal and civil court matters relating to neuropathology and ...

Harris County

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX

... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ... Provides expert testimony in criminal and civil court matters relating to neuropathology and ...

Harris County, TX

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX · On-site

... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ... Provides expert testimony in criminal and civil court matters relating to neuropathology and ...

Harris County

Forensic Neuropathologist

Houston, TX

... trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students ... Provides expert testimony in criminal and civil court matters relating to neuropathology and ...

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Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do trainee forensic ballistics expert jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee forensic ballistics expert in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee forensic ballistics expert do?

A Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert assists in analyzing firearms, ammunition, and related evidence to help solve crimes. They learn how to examine bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residues to determine the type of weapon used and whether a particular firearm was involved in a crime. Trainees work under the supervision of experienced experts, often participating in laboratory testing, crime scene investigations, and the preparation of reports for legal proceedings. Their training also includes learning about chain of custody procedures, evidence handling, and courtroom testimony.

What types of cases and evidence does a trainee forensic ballistics expert typically work on, and how is their work supervised?

As a Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert, you will primarily assist on cases involving firearms, ammunition, and gunshot residue, often analyzing bullets, cartridge cases, and trajectories to help law enforcement reconstruct shooting incidents. Your daily tasks will include using specialized equipment under the guidance of experienced experts, documenting findings, and preparing preliminary reports. Trainees work closely with supervisors and senior analysts, receiving hands-on training and feedback to ensure accuracy and adherence to strict chain-of-custody procedures. This collaborative environment helps you build expertise while contributing meaningfully to ongoing investigations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee forensic ballistics expert, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert, you need a background in forensic science or a related field, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, comparison microscopes, and ballistics databases such as IBIS is typically required, and relevant certifications may be advantageous. Critical thinking, precise communication, and the ability to work meticulously under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate analysis, reliable evidence handling, and effective collaboration with law enforcement, which are vital for supporting criminal investigations.

What is the difference between Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert vs Forensic Ballistics Expert?

AspectTrainee Forensic Ballistics ExpertForensic Ballistics Expert
CredentialsBasic forensic or criminal justice education, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, extensive experience in ballistics analysis
Work EnvironmentSupervised lab and field work, learning phaseIndependent case analysis, expert testimony
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsForensic laboratories, legal proceedings

The Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert is in the learning stage, gaining foundational skills under supervision, while the Forensic Ballistics Expert is fully qualified, handling complex cases independently. The trainee role focuses on skill development, whereas the expert role involves case analysis and courtroom testimony.

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Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness

Evidence Solutions, Inc.

Dallas, TX • On-site, Remote

$200 - $275/hr

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

This is a remote position.

Evidence Solutions, Inc. is a nationally recognized expert witness and litigation support firm providing consulting across a wide range of civil and criminal matters. Our team partners with attorneys, insurance carriers, municipalities, corporations, and government entities to deliver credible and defensible expert analysis.

We provide our experts with full-service support including marketing/business development, case intake and client support, billing and collections, allowing experts to focus on what they love doing best — working with the evidence.

Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Firearms & Ballistics Expert Witness to join our team of forensic and litigation support professionals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in firearms examination, ballistic analysis, shooting incident reconstruction, and the application of forensic science to firearms-related cases. This role is well suited for a Firearms Examiner, Ballistics Analyst, Forensic Scientist, Law Enforcement Firearms Specialist, or Military Weapons Expert who has investigated and analyzed shooting incidents and understands the standards and methodologies governing firearms evidence.

This position provides an opportunity to apply firearms and ballistics expertise to legal matters involving shooting incidents, firearm functionality, trajectory analysis, and weapons-related forensic investigations.

Requirements
Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct forensic examinations of firearms, ammunition, and ballistic evidence, including bullets, cartridge cases, and gunshot residue.
  • Analyze shooting incidents, including trajectory analysis, distance determination, and reconstruction of events based on physical evidence.
  • Evaluate firearm functionality, safety mechanisms, and potential defects or malfunctions.
  • Review case materials including scene evidence, autopsy reports, police reports, and forensic lab findings to assess firearm-related events.
  • Review and validate evidence of handling procedures including chain of custody, laboratory analysis, and testing protocols.
  • Assess use-of-force scenarios involving firearms, including officer-involved shootings, self-defense claims, and accidental discharges.
  • Consult with legal teams to assess firearms evidence, identify inconsistencies, and support case strategy.
  • Prepare detailed expert reports and professional opinions based on accepted firearms examination methodologies and forensic science principles.
  • Provide expert witness testimony in depositions and trials, translating complex concepts and firearms & ballistics findings into clear and defensible opinions
  • Stay current on developments in firearms technology, ballistic analysis techniques, forensic standards, and legal precedents related to firearms cases.

Qualifications:

  • 15+ years of professional experience in Firearms Examination, Ballistics Analysis, Law Enforcement or Military Firearms Specialist roles, Crime Lab Forensics, or related fields.
  • Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Ballistics, or a related field preferred.
  • Extensive experience in firearms examination, ballistics analysis, or forensic firearms investigations.
  • Deep understanding of firearms and forensic standards, including toolmark identification, trajectory analysis, gunshot residue testing, and evidence comparison techniques.
  • Experience working with laboratory testing procedures, firearms databases (e.g., NIBIN), and forensic analysis tools.
  • Strong knowledge of firearm safety standards and shooting incident reconstruction.
  • Demonstrated experience analyzing firearms-related evidence and presenting findings in investigative or legal settings.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain complex forensic concepts to attorneys, juries, and non-technical audiences.
  • Prior expert witness or courtroom testimony experience is preferred.
  • Relevant certifications or training in firearms examination, forensic science, or ballistics analysis are strongly preferred.



Benefits
Compensation & Structure:
  • 1099 independent contractor arrangement
  • WFH
  • Competitive hourly expert witness compensation
  • Flexible case-based workload
Why Partner with ESI
What We Offer:
  • Dedicated case management and administrative support from initial client intake to billing and collections that allows you to focus on doing what you love, delivering expert insights.
  • Marketing and business development initiatives designed to generate new case opportunities and expand your reach and visibility in the legal industry.
  • Peer review support and access to a multidisciplinary team of experts.
  • Report writing support and professional development opportunities such as deposition coaching, testimony training, and continuing education in emerging human factors research.
  • Flexible engagement structure.
  • A collaborative environment where your expertise is valued, and your contributions directly influence case outcomes.