How Much Do Crime Scene Investigators Earn?
Crime scene investigators collect and secure evidence at crime scenes, which scientists analyze later in the crime lab. The investigator must report on observations at the crime scene and may testify in court. The average salary for a crime scene investigator is $64,000 annually, as of November 2010, according to Indeed. Crime scene investigators must have a strong attention to detail and be observant when working a crime scene.
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Experience
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Crime scene investigators gain skills with experience, which also increases the annual salary. Investigators with between one and four years of experience in the field earn a salary range between $39,305 and $66,129 per year, while those with less than a year on the job earn an average salary range between $36,000 and $50,868, according to PayScale.
Location
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The state in which the crime scene investigator works is a factor in determining the annual salary. The cost of living in each state plays a role in the amount the investigator can earn. For example, crime scene investigators in New York State earn an average annual salary of $75,000 while those working in Washington State earn $57,000, according to Indeed.
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Benefits
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The paycheck is only one part of the earnings a crime scene investigator receives from the employer. Benefits such as a 401k plan, insurance, paid vacation, paid sick time and education assistance increase the monetary value to the employee. Crime scene investigators work for federal, state and local governments in a law enforcement position.
Advancement
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Crime scene investigators may advance in the position with training and education. An investigator can advance to a forensic science position with a bachelor's degree. These workers analyze and perform tests on evidence to assist law enforcement in the investigation of a crime. The average salary for a forensic science position is between $39,902 and $71,521 per year as of November 2010, according to PayScale.
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