By: All Criminal Justice Schools Staff
Updated: January 5, 2026
Forensic science technician salaries in Colorado
With its unique geography, encompassing mountains, desert, mesas, forests and high plains, Colorado offers a unique work environment for forensic science technicians due to several factors:
- Diverse terrain: Colorado’s terrain, with its mountains, forests and plains, provides forensic science technicians with varied and often challenging environments for crime scene investigations. The state’s diverse topography can impact evidence collection and require specialized techniques for processing outdoor crime scenes.
- Weather and elevation: The high altitude and frequently changing weather conditions, particularly in mountainous areas, can affect how evidence is preserved or deteriorated. Technicians in Colorado may need to account for unique environmental factors like snow, cold temperatures or high UV exposure, which can influence the decomposition of bodies or the preservation of materials.
- Outdoor activities and tourism: Colorado is known for its outdoor activities and high tourist foot traffic, particularly in areas like national parks and ski resorts. This influx of visitors creates a variety of cases, including missing persons, outdoor accidents and occasional criminal activity in remote or wilderness areas, where forensic technicians may be called to investigate.
- Legalized marijuana: Since Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, forensic science technicians in the state might be involved in cases related to the regulation and oversight of legal and illegal drug activities, leading to specialized work in toxicology and drug analysis.
- Research and education: Colorado is home to several research institutions and universities, such as the University of Colorado, which often collaborate with forensic science programs. These institutions may provide forensic professionals access to cutting-edge research, training, and technologies.
With such a unique landscape, it’s no wonder Colorado represents a challenging environment for forensic science technicians to work and to consider for their forensic science careers.
In this Article
Quick view
There are 380 people employed as forensic science technicians in Colorado says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). While this may not seem like a large number for an entire state’s population, you need to consider the specialized focus of the career. The median wage per hour in Colorado is $37 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 12.8%.
Here are just five major employers of forensic science technicians in the state:
- Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Lakewood, Arvada and regional locations, CO:
- As the state’s primary investigative agency, CBI employs forensic science technicians to work in their crime laboratories across the state, analyzing evidence related to criminal cases like homicides, drug offenses and sexual assaults.
- Denver Crime Laboratory, Denver, CO:
- The crime lab for Denver’s police department employs forensic science technicians who specialize in DNA analysis, toxicology, fingerprint identification and ballistics to support local law enforcement.
- Metro Crime Lab, Colorado Springs, CO:
- This department’s forensic unit plays a vital role in analyzing physical evidence collected from crime scenes and supporting the investigative work of the police in the Colorado Springs area.
- Unified Metropolitan Forensic Crime Laboratory, Centennial, CO:
- Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office is a member of the Unified Metro Forensic Crime Lab and employs forensic technicians who work on evidence collection, processing and analysis for cases involving property crimes, violent crimes and traffic accidents within the county.
- Boulder Police Department Forensic Services, Boulder, CO:
- The Boulder Police Department employs forensic science technicians to conduct crime scene investigations, analyze evidence and provide forensic services to assist in the resolution of criminal cases in the city.
Forensic science tech salary stats for Colorado
While the median salary for forensic science technicians in Colorado is higher than the national median, pay may vary depending upon several factors, including where you work and live in the state, how much experience you have, what level of education you have attained and if you have earned any professional credentials such as the Registered Medicolegal Death Investigator, or completed courses offered by the state. Colorado offers state specific training, including:
- Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI): The CBI offers training for those who work with a publicly-funded criminal justice agency in Colorado. Training includes a two-hour course on property crime scenes that covers latent print processing. CBI also has toxicology labs that are certified by the Colorado Department of Health and Environment.
- Crime Scene Investigation/Beyond the Basics: A program that teaches skills such as casting techniques, night photography and latent print examination and is offered by the county sheriffs of Colorado for law enforcement personnel who investigate crime scenes.
Median forensic scientist salary in Colorado
The median annual salary for forensic science technicians in Colorado is $77,800, higher than the national median of $67,440. However, it’s important to note that salaries may be based on experience, education and location within the state and all areas may not pay at a similar rate. Here are salaries for the Colorado cities that the BLS records, and you can see the highest paying area is the Denver metro area:
Forensic Science Technicians
10%$59,400
25%$64,590
50%$77,800Median
75%$98,400
90%$103,660
Median Hourly Wage$37
Job growth12.8%
Total Employment430
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs, CO | $80,400 | $64,080 | $99,430 |
| Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO | $77,990 | $60,000 | $104,660 |
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO | $73,650 | $59,400 | $96,250 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Other forensics-related careers related to consider
If you feel sure you’d like to work in forensics but aren’t certain that a forensic science technician role is right for you, there are other related specializations that you might consider. Here are just a few other forensics roles, along with median annual salaries, where available from the BLS:
- Crime scene investigators (CSI):
- Both careers involve handling and analyzing evidence, although CSIs are more field-oriented, while forensic technicians may work more in the lab. Median annual salary: $102,910
- Forensic toxicologists:
- Forensic toxicologists work in labs and often collaborate with law enforcement, medical examiners and forensic scientists to provide critical evidence for criminal cases.
- Forensic pathologists:
- Both careers involve detailed examination and analysis of physical evidence, with physician forensic pathologists specializing in human bodies and forensic science technicians working with other types of evidence. Median annual salary: $230,010
- Latent print examiners:
- Like forensic technicians, latent print examiners work with physical evidence to solve crimes, often performing their analyses in a laboratory setting.
- Digital forensic analysts (computer forensics):
- Both careers involve technical skills and evidence analysis, but digital forensic analysts focus specifically on electronic data rather than physical evidence. Median annual salary: $130,570
- Ballistics experts:
- Like forensic technicians, ballistics experts work closely with law enforcement to analyze evidence and solve crimes. Their specialty in firearms aligns with forensic science’s broader focus on evidence.
- Forensic anthropologists:
- Both careers require a scientific background and involve the analysis of physical evidence to solve criminal cases, with anthropologists focusing specifically on human remains. Median annual salary: $64,910
Salary ranges for forensic science techs in Colorado
The salary range for forensic science technicians in Colorado typically spans from $59,400 to $103,660 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level and management roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience and education, certifications and specializing and time in the position.
Pay by metro area for Colorado forensic techs
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. As a rule, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say for example you work or live in a city that has high profile forensic labs, such as Denver, Boulder or Colorado Springs, pay may be more competitive. In fact, if you look at the BLS’ metro areas, you’ll see the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area pays well over the national median and the state median, at $82,150. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as the top 10 highest paying metro areas for forensic science technicians in the U.S. Unfortunately, no metro area in Colorado ranks in the top 10.
Salary growth and job outlook
The job growth outlook for forensic science technicians in Colorado is positive but may not rank as high as other states, particularly in terms of employment concentration or rapid growth. Still, the BLS predicted a 12.8% national job growth rate through 2034. This growth is largely driven by advancements in forensic technology and increased demand for forensic evidence in criminal cases, which may provide long-term job security. Some factors that may impact job growth in the state are:
- Colorado’s growth outlook: While Colorado may not rank in the top five states for the number of jobs or growth rate specifically for forensic science technicians, the state still offers a promising job market. Colorado’s increasing population, tourism industry and progressive stance on law enforcement policies contribute to the demand for forensic services.
- Competition and specialization: In Colorado, opportunities for forensic science technicians may be more competitive due to the relatively limited number of positions available in comparison to states with larger populations like California or Texas. However, technicians with specialized skills, such as DNA analysis or drug chemistry (important in a state with legal marijuana), may find more opportunities.
- Regional demand: Colorado has strong local demand in cities like Denver, Colorado Springs and Boulder, with major employers such as the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement agencies. The diversity of terrain, types of crime and unique legal environment could sustain job opportunities even if the growth isn’t among the highest in the nation.
Factors affecting salaries in Colorado
Several factors specific to Colorado influence how much forensic science technicians are paid in the state:
- Cost of living:
- Colorado’s cost of living, particularly in cities like Denver and Boulder, is higher than the national average. This impacts salaries as employers need to offer competitive wages to account for housing, transportation and other living expenses. Forensic science technicians in urban areas like Denver or Boulder tend to earn higher salaries compared to those in more rural areas of Colorado.
- Demand in urban areas:
- Major cities such as Denver, Colorado Springs and Boulder have higher crime rates and more complex criminal investigations, leading to increased demand for forensic science services. This can result in higher pay due to the need for skilled forensic technicians in larger, busier crime labs.
- Having specialized skills:
- Technicians with specialized skills, such as DNA analysis, toxicology or drug testing, are often in greater demand in Colorado. These specialized positions typically command higher salaries compared to more general forensic science roles. The presence of legal marijuana may also increase demand for drug-related forensic work.
- State funding:
- The budget allocated to law enforcement and forensic services in Colorado can vary year by year. Well-funded agencies, like the Colorado Bureau of Investigation or large city police departments, are more likely to offer higher wages due to greater financial resources. The state’s investment in public safety and technological advancements in crime labs can directly affect technician pay.
- Education and experience:
- Like all states, more experienced forensic science technicians and those with advanced degrees or certifications in forensic chemistry, toxicology or criminalistics tend to earn higher salaries. Colorado’s proximity to leading research institutions such as the University of Colorado can influence salary trends for professionals with higher education.
What do I do if I believe my pay is incorrect in Colorado?
If you believe your pay is incorrect in Colorado, here are the steps you can take to address the issue:
1. Review your employment contract and pay stub
- Check the details: Start by reviewing your employment contract, pay stub, and any relevant payroll policies. Make sure you understand how your pay is calculated, including any deductions, overtime and bonuses.
- Compare hours worked and pay: Ensure that the hours you worked align with the hours recorded, and check that your pay rate matches what was agreed upon.
2. Talk to your employer or HR department
- Bring it to their attention: If you spot discrepancies, the first step is to contact your supervisor or HR department. Mistakes in payroll can happen, and employers may fix them quickly once notified.
- Document your concerns: When you approach your employer, have documentation ready—like your pay stubs, timesheets or any relevant communications—to clearly outline the issue.
3. Keep a record of communication
- Document everything: Keep a written record of your communication with your employer regarding your pay issue, including emails, notes from conversations and any responses.
- Timeframe for response: Give your employer a reasonable amount of time to respond and correct the issue.
4. Contact the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE)
- File a wage complaint: If your employer doesn’t address the issue, you can file a wage complaint with the Division of Labor Standards and Statistics through the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE).
- Wage theft resources: Colorado has wage theft laws that protect employees. The CDLE investigates wage disputes and helps recover unpaid wages. You can file a complaint online via their website or contact them directly.
5. Seek legal assistance
- Consult an attorney: If the issue is not resolved through the CDLE or if you believe your rights are being violated, consider consulting an employment lawyer who specializes in wage disputes. They can help guide you through your legal options.
- Collective action: If other employees are experiencing the same issue, you might consider collective action or a class action lawsuit if it involves widespread underpayment.
6. Know your rights in Colorado
- Colorado Wage Protection Act: Under Colorado law, employers are required to pay workers all earned wages, including overtime. Colorado also mandates that employers provide a clear and understandable pay statement.
- Overtime laws: If the issue involves unpaid overtime, be aware that Colorado requires overtime pay for hours worked beyond 40 hours per week or 12 hours in a single day, at a rate of 1.5 times the regular wage.
Education and training
To become a forensic science technician in Colorado, you generally need a combination of education, training and sometimes certifications. Here’s an outline of the requirements:
Bachelor’s degree:
Most forensic science technician positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as:
- Forensic science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Criminal justice with a forensic science concentration
Focus on courses in biology, chemistry, physics and criminalistics. Specialized courses in DNA analysis, toxicology and trace evidence analysis are highly valuable.
Master’s degree: While not always required, having a master’s degree in forensic science or a related field can be beneficial, especially for more specialized roles in crime labs or to advance into leadership positions.
Training:
- On-the-job training: Most forensic science technicians receive significant on-the-job training. Entry-level technicians often start by assisting experienced forensic scientists, learning laboratory procedures and familiarizing themselves with crime scene protocols.
- Internships: Participating in internships or cooperative education programs with crime labs, law enforcement agencies or forensic departments during college is highly recommended. It provides hands-on experience and helps you stand out when applying for jobs.
Certifications and licensing:
While not always required, certain certifications can improve job prospects and credibility. Popular certifications include:
- American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) certification: This is one of the most respected certifications for forensic professionals, covering areas like molecular biology, drug analysis and fire debris analysis.
- International Association for Identification (IAI): Offers certifications in crime scene analysis, bloodstain pattern analysis and fingerprint identification, among others.
- American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT): Certification for forensic toxicologists, focusing on drug and alcohol analysis.
- Professional training Programs: Some employers may require or prefer technicians with specific training from recognized institutions, such as workshops or seminars in areas like DNA testing, fingerprint analysis, or firearms examination.
- No specific state licensing: Colorado does not require a state-specific license for forensic science technicians. However, certifications from national bodies are often preferred or required by employers, particularly for more specialized roles.
Additional skills:
- Attention to detail: Forensic technicians must be meticulous when handling and analyzing evidence.
- Communication skills: You’ll need to write detailed reports and potentially testify in court as an expert witness.
- Technical proficiency: Proficiency with lab equipment, software for crime scene reconstruction and evidence tracking is crucial.
- Continuous learning: Keeping up with advances in forensic science and technology through workshops and training courses is essential for career growth.
Cost of living in Colorado
The cost of living in Colorado is slightly high compared to many other U.S. states, but it varies significantly by region. Forensic science technicians need to consider housing, utilities, transportation and other daily expenses when choosing where to live and work.
Cost of living overview:
Colorado’s cost of living is among the highest in the U.S. The Cost of Living Index rates California at about 105.5, which means it is 5.5% more expensive than the national average. The U.S. average is 100, so Colorado ranks just above. Individual cities may rank higher or lower, for example, Denver is 10% higher than the national average and Colorado Springs is 7% higher.
Affordable areas:
Forensic science technicians can live comfortably in Colorado if they find employment in areas where salaries are adjusted for the higher cost of living or the cost of living is lower. As an example, Pueblo is a metro area where the cost of living is 4% lower than the national average, Grand Junction is 3% higher and Gunnison is 1% higher.
Higher cost areas:
In higher-cost areas, it’s essential that salaries match the living expenses. Often, employers in cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs or Westminster offer higher wages to compensate for the cost of living, but housing and transportation costs may still be significant factors.
Forensic science technician professional associations
There are few professional associations for forensic science technicians that are specific to Colorado, but there are several organizations that provide networking opportunities, professional development, certifications and access to the latest advancements in forensic science. Here are some key associations:
Rocky Mountain Division of the National Association of Identification (RMDIAI): The RMDIAI provides the Colorado-New Mexico-Wyoming area with educational and professional development opportunities for experienced and new professionals in the field of forensic sciences.
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS): Though national in scope, many forensic science technicians in Colorado are members of the AAFS. It’s one of the largest professional associations for forensic science, offering access to conferences, certifications, and resources that benefit forensic professionals across the U.S., including Colorado.
National Association of Forensic Science Boards (NAFSB): The NAFSB provides a forum for member groups to communicate and share their different experiences and identify best practices that are most applicable to each state’s unique circumstances.
The forensic science technician salary guide for Colorado aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the forensic science profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiating salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.