Crime Scene Investigator

Prepared by:

Maria GuerreroPaul HallmanDeanne KellnerPaco Martinez

Speech 1311: Group Speech

Introduction

A career in crime scene investigation (CSI) offers a dynamic and challenging environment in a fast growing field that is well paid and directly contributes to the safety and security of the community.

Image source: http://www.istockphoto.com

Overview

Need and Demand Compensation Education Experience Nature of the Job Job Requirements Information Other Information

Need and Demand

Source: Bureau of Labor and Statistics (May 2008).

Compensation

CSI SpecialtyYearly Salary

Evidence Technician $24,000

Forensic Photographer $34,500

Biomedical Technician $54,000

Criminalist $60,000

Firearms Examiner $71,500

Toxicologist $72,000

Forensic Mechanical Engineer $87,500

Evidence Custodian $115,200

Chief Medical Examiner $188,500

Compensation(continued)

A criminalist earns a respectable salary of about $60K.

That is about the median salary range for the CSI industry. It is about half of what a main cast member on CSI:Miami would earn for just one episode which is about $150K.

Education

The most common degree is a bachelors degree in criminal justice

Other popular degree programs for a CSI career are:• Biology Degrees• Computer Forensics• Correctional Management Degree• Criminal Justice Degree• Other Physical Science Degrees

Experience

The experience required depends on your area of focus and the agency with openings in that area

•Typing skills

•Critical Thinker

•Analytical Skills

•Other

Nature of the Job

In no way shape or form is it a normal 8- 5 job

• Responsible for documenting

• One piece of evidence could make or break a case

• Definitely not for the weak stomach or faint hearted

• Requires a lot of time and dedication

Job Requirements and Skills

•Machine and computer skills

•Photography

•Communication skills

•Academic degree

•Physically demanding

•Psychologically demanding

Information

Sample CSI Job Postings

• Criminalist I

• Senior Criminalist - Firearm Examiner

Brochures

• International Forensic Science Academy

• Homeland Security Division

• Columbia Basin College

Other Information

Visit CSI: The Experience exhibit showing at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Conclusion

CSI Career:

Challenging environment in a fast growing field that is well paid and directly contributes to the safety and security of the community.