How much money does a blood spatter analyst make

Resume Builder. Forensic science is all about studying the mess of a crime scene and analyzing the details to identify criminals and convict them in a court of law. Forensic scientists with specialized knowledge often achieved through the completion of comprehensive training programs and specific coursework in specialized areas of forensic science are often in greater demand and therefore can command higher salaries. Work Environment. Minimum wage may differ by jurisdiction and you should consult the employer for actual salary figures. These forensic scientists can determine the type of weapon, number of blows, placement of both victims and suspects during and after an attack, and the window of time in which the crime probably took place. By Timothy Roufa.

Learn About the Salary, Required Skills, & More

Bloodstain pattern analysts, also known as blood spatter experts, collect and analyze physical evidence—specifically, blood. They are specialists in forensic science and crime mucu investigation and examine the location and shape of blood drops, stains, puddles, and pools. Bloodstain pattern analysts sometimes are called to gruesome scenes to gather crucial evidence regarding violent crimes. At other times, they might deal only with a single drop of spattrr or fingerprint. Trace evidence invisible to the naked eye might be collected using swabs or special lighting. Analysts can determine the trajectory of a projectile, the number of wounds a victim suffered, and how events unfolded during a violent crime. Analysts take photographs, collect samples, write reports, and testify in court.

Learn About the Salary, Required Skills, & More

When a crime results in bloodshed, the blood left behind functions as evidence for investigators. However, a bloodstain pattern analyst can’t simply glance at drips and smears of blood and immediately tell you the who, what and when of a crime scene. Blood spatter analysis takes time and provides only a few pieces of the total crime puzzle. Yet such analysis can corroborate other evidence and lead investigators to seek additional clues. After close analysis, blood spatters can provide important clues to aspects of the violent act such as [sources: Dutelle , James et al.

Geographic Location

Bloodstain pattern analysts, also known as blood spatter experts, collect and analyze physical evidence—specifically, blood. They are specialists in forensic science and crime scene investigation and examine the location and shape of blood drops, stains, puddles, and pools. Bloodstain pattern analysts sometimes are called to gruesome scenes to gather crucial evidence regarding violent crimes.

At other times, they might deal only with a single drop of blood or fingerprint. Trace evidence invisible to the naked eye might be collected using swabs or special lighting. Analysts can determine the trajectory of a projectile, the number of wounds a victim suffered, and how events unfolded during a violent crime. Analysts take photographs, collect samples, write reports, and testify in court.

They sometimes create computer simulations to clarify reports or testimony. The U. Source: U. Bureau of Labor Statistics In addition to a background in science and training in law enforcement, there are other skills beneficial to anyone pursuing a career as a bloodstain pattern analyst. The work involves responding to crime scenes and interacting with biohazardous material, such as blood and other bodily fluids.

Most analysts are employed by large metropolitan police departments or state-run crime laboratories. They can find themselves working at all hours and for long hours. Work on weekends and holidays should be expected. Seek out opportunities on job search sites specific how much money does a blood spatter analyst make forensic science or apply directly with law enforcement agencies. Know what to include on your resume by emphasizing the types of skills important in law enforcement careers.

Know what to expect so you can be prepared for everything on a typical law enforcement application. The skills necessary to be a bloodstain pattern analyst translate well to many careers in science.

Other potential career paths, along with median annual salaries, include:. Forensic Science Law Enforcement. Career Profiles Forensic Science. By Timothy Roufa. This job generally requires the ability to do the following work:. Analyze crime scenes Photograph crime scenes and evidence Record observations Write reports Reconstruct crime scenes based on observations and analysis Use computer software to aid in the reconstruction of crime scenes. Education: Bloodstain pattern analysts should have strong backgrounds in scientific studies.

A bachelor’s degree in one of the natural sciences, such as chemistry or biology, usually is required. Certification: Different states have different requirements in regards to certifications and might have their own programs, but training developed by the International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts is a common standard. Such advanced training is recommended as analysts become established in their careers. Training: Additional on-the-job training is common after you’re hired.

New recruits typically work extensively and under the tutelage of experienced analysts before ever handling cases or evidence on their own, sometimes for as long as two to three years. Reaching conclusions requires meticulous work with small details in order to see the bigger picture.

Analysts must question everything and eliminate all other possibilities before reaching conclusions. Evidence must be handled according to precise procedures to maintain integrity. Photography : Taking photographs of a crime scene from all available angles and perspectives helps analysts to study details long after the crime scene has been cleaned.

Computer skills: Software specific to recreating crime scenes is helpful for analysts when illustrating their findings. Being proficient with such software is an important part of the job. Article Table of Contents Skip to section Expand.

Job Outlook. Work Environment. Work Schedule. Comparing Similar Jobs. Continue Reading.

Steps for Becoming a Blood Spatter Analyst

Christina Applegate, who plays Samantha on «Samantha Who? Find Schools. The work involves responding to crime scenes and interacting with biohazardous material, such as blood and other bodily fluids. Computer skills: Software specific to recreating crime scenes is helpful for analysts when illustrating their findings. Real blood spatter analysts play a huge role by testifying in court to deliver criminal justice, such as in the recent manslaughter case of Beverly Littlecrow.