Forensic technician

What does a forensic technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A forensic technician works to investigate and analyze crime scenes, physical evidence, and technical traces to assist in criminal investigations. Common tasks include photographing and documenting crime scenes, collecting and handling evidence, and performing analyses such as fingerprint, DNA, and digital trace analysis. The work is carried out in close collaboration with police investigators and prosecutors, often under time pressure where accuracy and objectivity are crucial. The work environment can vary from laboratories to fieldwork at crime scenes, requiring high standards of integrity, stress resilience, and analytical skills.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for forensic technicians have increased significantly. In 2022, the average salary was 38,800 SEK per month, rising to 40 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 44,100 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of just over 13.6% during the period, with the largest increase occurring between 2023 and 2024. Behind this positive trend is an increased demand for specialist skills in forensic technology, especially in digital forensics and DNA analysis. Additionally, qualification requirements have been raised, which has contributed to salary adjustments to attract and retain qualified personnel. The profession is also subject to general wage pressures within the security and police sectors, where competition for experienced forensic technicians has become more evident.

Forensic technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 44,100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 49,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 265 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 43 300 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 44 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a forensic technician, police training is generally required, followed by specialization in forensic technology. Many forensic technicians have a police background and then undergo additional training and certification in forensics, both theoretical and practical. Specialized courses in DNA technology, trace analysis, and digital forensics are common, along with internships or trainee positions at police forensic departments.

• Formal education: Police program (2.5 years) followed by internal forensic training
• Further education: Courses in forensics, trace analysis, DNA technology, and digital forensics
• Internship/trainee: Practical service at forensic departments
• Prerequisites: Approved police training and investigative experience
• Tips for choosing: Interest in technology, precision, and analytical ability are important factors

Common benefits and compensations

Forensic technicians are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pensions, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and insurance. Overtime and on-call work can provide additional compensation, and some employers also offer educational support and opportunities for professional development.

Competition and challenges

The profession of forensic technician is in demand, but the number of available positions is relatively limited, making competition for the most qualified roles fierce. Developments in technology and forensic methods impose high demands for continuous further training. The work can be psychologically demanding as it often involves handling evidence from serious crimes. Additionally, high integrity and the ability to work under pressure are required, as analysis results can be pivotal for the outcome of investigations. Lack of resources and increasing demands for technical competence are other challenges faced by forensic technicians.

Tips for those wanting to become a forensic technician

To succeed as a forensic technician, it is good to develop a strong analytical ability early on and an interest in technology, as the work requires both logical thinking and the ability to interpret complex data. Precision is crucial, as even the smallest detail can be significant in an investigation, and meticulous documentation is essential. Collaboration skills facilitate teamwork and communication with other professional groups within the police. Flexibility and stress resilience are important qualities, as crime scenes and tasks can vary greatly from day to day. Those looking to advance in the profession should actively seek further education and stay up-to-date with the latest technology. Having integrity and the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally are also central. Finally, experience from investigative work or laboratory tasks can provide good conditions for thriving and succeeding in the role.

Key facts about Forensic Technicians

• Education level: Police program + specialization in forensic technology
• Work environment: Alternates between laboratories and crime scenes
• Typical employment form: Full-time, often within the public sector
• Demand: 191 available positions within the police profession
• Gender distribution: Women earn 97% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a forensic technician, there are opportunities to further specialize in areas such as digital forensics, laboratory management, or training activities. Some forensic technicians advance to managerial roles within forensic units or work with method development and quality assurance. Projections from the Employment Service indicate a stable demand within the police profession, but no separate assessment is made for forensic technicians due to limited data. With increasing demands for technical skills and digital investigations, the demand for forensic technicians is expected to remain strong, especially for those with advanced technical expertise or leadership skills.

Frequently asked questions about Forensic Technicians

• What does a forensic technician earn?
  - A forensic technician has an average salary of 44,100 SEK per month.
• How to become a forensic technician?
  - First, police training is required, followed by specialization and practical experience in forensic technology.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 43 300 SEK and men 44 500 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What education is required?
  - The police program (2.5 years) followed by further training in forensic technology and forensics.
• What does the work environment look like?
  - Work alternates between laboratories, offices, and crime scenes, often with varying working hours.
• How many job openings are available?
  - Currently, there are 191 available positions within the police profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a forensic technician?
  - The highest salary is 49,200 SEK and the lowest 42,500 SEK per month.