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Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... ballistics experts-negotiating retention fees within pre-established guidelines, and ensuring that ... Proactively research and source new niche specialists (e.g., engineering, financial, forensic, and ...

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

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

Firearms Examiner

MD · On-site

$70K - $137K/yr

Enter and analyze computer data to include the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). Conduct forensic image analysis. Testify in court as an expert witness. Assist other forensic ...

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

... Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). Conduct forensic image analysis. Testify in court as an expert witness. Assist other forensic units, prosecutors, and allied agencies. Perform ...

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

Current trainee holding a certificate of didactic course completion and actively working toward ... Testifies in court as an expert or fact witness. 5. Practices as a sexual assault nurse examiner in ...

Showing results 41-60

Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert information

See salary details

$41K

$87.9K

$137K

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

As of Aug 10, 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 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.

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.
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What cities are hiring for Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert jobs are:
Infographic showing various Trainee Forensic Ballistics Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

The Expert Witness Recruiter is responsible for maintaining, expanding, and strategically sourcing Dane Street's network of specialized expert witnesses. This includes identifying and onboarding high-caliber experts-such as physicians, economists, biomechanical engineers, accident reconstructionists, life care planners, and ballistics experts-negotiating retention fees within pre-established guidelines, and ensuring that all open service requests (OSRs) are resolved promptly. The ideal candidate will leverage research skills, industry networking, and strong communication to close niche talent gaps and support our legal and insurance operations.
Key Responsibilities
Network Maintenance & Growth
  • Understand client requirements, case constraints, and turnaround time (TAT) deadlines to negotiate expert witness agreement terms.
  • Proactively research and source new niche specialists (e.g., engineering, financial, forensic, and scientific fields) to meet evolving client litigation needs.
  • Onboard new expert witnesses based on case demand, managing the collection of required documentation (curriculum vitae, specialized certifications, fee schedules, W9s, and background checks).
  • Maintain existing expert records, including fee schedules, profile updates, and active/inactive statuses.
  • Coordinate with the Director of Operations to finalize specialized fee structures.
Special Assignments & Contract Negotiations
  • Lead complex negotiations and contract renewals for high-priority or highly sought-after expert witnesses.
  • Handle sensitive or urgent client requests, particularly those involving rare specialties or tight legal discovery deadlines.
  • Assist expert reviewers with technical onboarding, portal training, or case-specific inquiries.
  • Fulfill high-priority OSRs by locating and qualifying specialized professionals, providing daily internal updates on progress.
  • Collaborate with operations to ensure the expert network is aligned with upcoming pipeline demand.
Additional Duties
  • Support other cross-functional staffing or panel projects as assigned by leadership.
  • Stay current on industry trends, evidentiary standards (such as Daubert/Frye compliance), and general legal/insurance operations.
Qualifications
Education
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred.
Experience
  • 3-5 years of specialized recruiting experience, ideally within an expert network firm, litigation support agency, insurance defense firm, or legal staffing environment.
  • Proven track record sourcing non-traditional, highly technical roles (e.g., engineers, financial analysts, scientists).
Skills & Competencies
  • Strong investigative research and sourcing skills (leveraging LinkedIn, academic publications, professional associations, and industry registries).
  • Deep understanding of professional credentials, technical CVs, and the distinction between various scientific and technical disciplines.
  • Excellent negotiation, contract communication, and relationship-management skills.
  • Working knowledge of legal, insurance, or forensic terminology.
  • High proficiency in applicant tracking systems (ATS), CRM platforms, and Microsoft Office.
Working Conditions
  • Primarily remote with extended periods of computer work.
  • Occasional travel or attendance at industry conferences may be required depending on business needs.
Technical Requirements (Remote Work)
  • Must supply and maintain reliable, high-speed internet.
  • An uninterrupted internet connection is a requirement for this role.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may be adjusted based on evolving business needs.