By: All Criminal Justice Schools Staff
Updated: January 7, 2026
What do forensic science technicians earn in Texas?
Why consider Texas for a forensic science career? One of the best reasons to consider Texas for becoming a forensic science technician is the presence of the Forensic Anthropology Center at Texas State University, often referred to as the “body farm.” It’s one of the few research facilities in the world dedicated to studying human decomposition in various conditions, which is vital for forensic science.
Having access to such a facility can make a significant difference in a forensic science career. It offers unique opportunities for hands-on training, internships and research in the field of forensic anthropology, which can enhance skills in crime scene investigation, human identification and time of death estimation. Forensic science students and professionals in Texas benefit from proximity to this resource, which may potentially give them a competitive edge in the job market.
In addition to the body farm, Texas has several crime labs and law enforcement agencies that work with forensic science technicians, offering a range of job opportunities. The state’s large size and population may also contribute to a consistent demand for forensic experts across urban and rural areas.
In this Article
Quick view
There are 2,220 people employed as forensic science technicians in Texas 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—and the BLS does say Texas is the second largest employer of forensic science techs in the U.S., just after California. The median wage per hour in Texas is $27 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 12.8%.
The following employers represent a mix of public, independent, academic and county-based forensic labs, giving a well-rounded view of the job opportunities in Texas:
- Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Crime Laboratory, Corpus Christi, Austin, Houston, Lubbock and Garland, TX:
- DPS operates multiple forensic labs across the state, providing forensic services to law enforcement agencies, including DNA analysis, toxicology and firearms examination.
- Houston Forensic Science Center, Houston, TX:
- This independent crime lab serves the Houston Police Department and other agencies, offering services in toxicology, forensic biology (DNA), latent prints, firearms and digital forensics.
- Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office, San Antonio, TX:
- The medical examiner’s office provides forensic pathology services, death investigations and works closely with forensic science technicians in autopsy and toxicology.
- University of North Texas Center for Human Identification (UNTCHI), Fort Worth, TX:
- UNTCHI is renowned for its work in forensic anthropology, DNA analysis and human identification, assisting law enforcement agencies with missing persons and unidentified remains cases.
- Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, Houston, TX:
- This institute offers a full spectrum of forensic services, including toxicology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and crime scene investigation, making it one of the largest forensic service providers in the region.
Texas forensic science tech salary stats
While the median salary for forensic science technicians in Texas is lower 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. While Texas does not have any state-specific required credentials that may help boost salary level, there are optional state and national certifications that may help:
- American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) certification: Technicians in Texas can obtain ABC certification in disciplines like forensic biology (DNA), drug analysis and trace evidence. This is a nationally recognized certification.
- Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) certification: While not exclusive to forensic science, TCOLE offers various certifications for law enforcement personnel, including crime scene investigation, which may benefit forensic technicians who work closely with police departments.
- International Association for Identification (IAI) certification: Forensic professionals in Texas often pursue IAI certification in areas such as latent print examination, crime scene investigation, forensic photography and bloodstain pattern analysis. This is widely accepted in Texas and other states.
- Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC) oversight: The TFSC regulates forensic laboratories in Texas. While it doesn’t offer individual credentials, the commission ensures that labs and forensic scientists meet quality standards, which may affect hiring preferences.
- Specialized forensic programs: Texas universities, such as Texas A&M and Sam Houston State University, offer specialized programs in forensic science and criminal justice, which can serve as stepping stones to a career in forensics, providing state-specific education that aligns with local law enforcement needs.
Median forensic scientist salary in Texas
The median annual salary for forensic science technicians in Texas is $55,830, lower 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. Also, Texas has a lower cost of living than the national average, so salaries may still go further even though they are lower. Here are salaries for the Texas cities that the BLS records, and you can see the highest paying area is the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro area, where the median salary is just higher than the national average:
Forensic Science Technicians
10%$40,290
25%$46,960
50%$55,830Median
75%$66,810
90%$79,900
Median Hourly Wage$27
Job growth12.8%
Total Employment1,990
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands, TX | $67,440 | $44,040 | $83,320 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX | $58,590 | $47,990 | $78,680 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $55,380 | $41,380 | $81,580 |
| El Paso, TX | $54,120 | $40,310 | $76,420 |
| Lubbock, TX | $52,610 | $40,520 | $83,300 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $51,280 | $40,290 | $76,420 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $49,490 | $41,070 | $62,690 |
| Tyler, TX | $49,470 | $40,520 | $60,500 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | $47,130 | $32,280 | $63,270 |
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 job is right for you, there are related roles that you might consider. Here are just a few other forensics titles, 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: $89,860
- 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:
- 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: $124,970
- 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: $63,890
Salary ranges for forensic science technicians in Texas
The salary range for forensic science technicians in Texas typically spans from $40,290 to $79,900 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 Texas 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 Houston, Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth or San Antonio, pay may be more competitive. In fact, if you look at the BLS’ metro areas, you’ll see the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land area ranks #2 for highest employment level in the U.S., with Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington at #6 and Austin-Round Rock at #10. 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 Texas ranks in the top 10 for pay.
Here are more in-depth looks at the top three metro areas for forensic science techs in Texas:
Houston
- Houston is home to major forensic employers, including the Houston Forensic Science Center and the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. It has one of the highest concentrations of crime labs and law enforcement agencies in the state.
- Key employers: Houston Forensic Science Center, Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Crime Laboratory.
Austin
- As the state capital, Austin houses the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Headquarters Crime Lab and provides numerous opportunities for forensic science technicians in both government and academic sectors.
- Key employers: Texas DPS Crime Laboratory, Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office, University of Texas at Austin.
Dallas-Fort Worth
- The Dallas-Fort Worth area has a variety of forensic opportunities, including positions with the Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences and the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification in Fort Worth.
- Key employers: Dallas County Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences, University of North Texas Center for Human Identification.
Salary growth and job outlook
The BLS projects that the national employment of forensic science technicians will grow by 12.8% through 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing use of forensic evidence in criminal investigations and court cases, along with advances in forensic technology. While the BLS doesn’t provide a separate forecast for Texas, the state’s growth rate is expected to be comparable to or slightly higher than the national average due to these factors:
- Diverse job opportunities: Texas is home to a variety of forensic science facilities, from crime labs to body farms and academic research centers.
- Population growth: Texas has a rapidly growing population, which increases the demand for law enforcement and forensic services.
- Expansion of crime labs: Cities like Houston, Austin, and Dallas are expanding their forensic capabilities, with some local crime labs receiving significant funding.
Factors affecting forensic tech salaries in Texas
Several factors can significantly impact how much a forensic science technician may earn in Texas. These include:
- Location in the state:
- Forensic science technicians in urban areas like Houston, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio typically earn higher salaries due to a greater demand for forensic services and a higher cost of living. Rural areas may offer fewer opportunities and lower salaries, but positions may come with different benefits, such as lower living costs and less competition.
- Education and specializing:
- Technicians with advanced degrees (such as a master’s degree in forensic science, biology or chemistry) or specialized certifications such as forensic DNA analysis or toxicology may command higher salaries. Specializations in high-demand areas, such as digital forensics or DNA analysis, may also lead to more lucrative roles due to the technical expertise required.
- Years of experience:
- Entry-level technicians typically start at lower salary brackets, but earnings generally increase with experience. Technicians with several years of experience, especially those in leadership or supervisory roles, may earn significantly more. Senior positions like forensic lab supervisors or managers generally earn much higher salaries compared to entry-level positions.
- State funding:
- The amount of funding a crime lab or forensic department receives may also impact salary levels. Well-funded agencies, such as those in large cities or state-sponsored forensic research centers, are more likely to offer competitive pay.
- Type of employer:
- Forensic technicians working for state agencies, such as the Texas Department of Public Safety or local police crime labs, often have structured pay scales based on experience and rank. While government positions might not have the highest salaries, they often provide solid benefits, job security and pensions. Forensic technicians working in private labs or for corporations that provide forensic services might earn higher salaries than those in public sector jobs, though benefits and job stability could vary. Technicians working in forensic research centers, like the Forensic Anthropology Center at Texas State University, may have different pay structures, often tied to grants and academic funding.
- Certifications and credentials:
- Holding professional certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) or the International Association for Identification (IAI) can increase earning potential. Employers often value these credentials for their demonstration of specialized expertise. Some certifications, such as in latent print analysis or crime scene investigation, may lead to higher-paying roles depending on the employer’s needs.
- Overtime and shift differentials:
- Technicians who work in crime labs with high caseloads or on-call evening, weekend or holiday shifts may earn additional income through overtime pay or shift differentials. Certain forensic labs are required to handle urgent cases, creating opportunities for additional earnings.
What do I do if I think my pay is incorrect in Texas?
If you believe that your pay is incorrect or unfair compared to someone else doing your same job in Texas, there are several resources and steps you can take to address the situation:
Steps to take:
- Document your role and responsibilities compared to others in similar positions.
- Gather evidence of wage discrepancies, such as pay stubs, job descriptions, or salary surveys.
- Approach your employer or HR department first to resolve the issue informally.
- Seek external assistance from the Texas Workforce Commission, Department of Labor, EEOC or legal counsel if necessary.
Resources:
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
- The Texas Workforce Commission is the primary state agency overseeing employment issues, including wage disputes. If you feel that you’re being underpaid, you can file a wage claim with the TWC. They can investigate whether you are being paid in accordance with state labor laws.
- Wage claim process: You have up to 180 days after the wages were due to file a claim if you are not being paid according to a verbal or written agreement, or if minimum wage laws are violated.
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)–Wage and Hour Division
- The WHD | DOL enforces federal wage and hour laws, including the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). If you believe you’re not being paid fairly, especially for overtime or minimum wage violations, you can file a complaint with the DOL.
- Filing a complaint: The DOL allows workers to file complaints about wage disparities, especially in cases involving federal law violations.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
- If you believe that pay differences are due to discrimination based on gender, race, age or other protected characteristics, you can file a complaint with the EEOC. They enforce laws related to equal pay and other forms of workplace discrimination.
- Equal Pay Act: The Equal Pay Act ensures that men and women in the same workplace receive equal pay for equal work. If you suspect discrimination is the reason for a pay disparity, this is the resource to use.
Internal company resources (HR department)
- Many employers have policies for resolving pay disputes internally. Contact your Human Resources (HR) Department or supervisor to inquire about your pay and request clarification or an audit of your compensation.
- Comparative analysis: Ask for a compensation review or a salary audit to ensure your pay aligns with others doing the same job within the company or organization. Bring any documentation supporting your claim, such as job descriptions, employment contracts or performance reviews.
Online salary tools
- Salary comparison websites: You can use websites like Glassdoor, Payscale or the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to compare your salary with other forensic science technicians in Texas and nationwide. These tools provide estimates based on location, experience, education and employer type, helping you assess whether your pay is competitive.
- BLS data: The BLS offers detailed salary data by state, industry and occupation. It’s a trusted resource for comparing earnings across the country. You can explore data specifically for forensic science technicians.
Legal counsel
- If informal measures don’t resolve your pay concerns, you can consult with an employment lawyer. They can review your case and determine whether any labor laws have been violated, such as breaches of contract or wage discrimination. In cases of significant wage disparity or discrimination, legal action may be necessary to rectify the issue.
Education and training
To work as a forensic science technician in Texas, certain education and training requirements are typically needed. While requirements can vary depending on the employer and specific role, here are the general steps and qualifications:
Education requirements
Bachelor’s degree (minimum requirement)
- Most forensic science technician roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, criminal justice, chemistry, biology or a closely related field. Universities such as Texas A&M University, Sam Houston State University and the University of Texas offer specialized forensic science programs.
Graduate degrees (optional)
- While a master’s degree is not always required, certain positions or career advancement opportunities may favor those with an advanced degree. A master’s in forensic science or a specialized field (like forensic biology or forensic toxicology) may help you qualify for more advanced roles or leadership positions in crime labs.
Relevant certifications
Although certifications are not always required, they are often highly valued by employers and may enhance a candidate’s qualifications. In Texas, forensic labs often prefer candidates who hold these certifications, especially for more technical roles. Some relevant certifications include:
- American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) certification in areas like forensic biology or drug analysis.
- International Association for Identification (IAI) certifications for specific disciplines such as latent print analysis, crime scene investigation or bloodstain pattern analysis.
- Forensic Toxicologist Certification Board (FTCB) certification for those specializing in toxicology.
On-the-job training
Even with a degree, most forensic science technicians will undergo extensive on-the-job training. Training typically focuses on the specific procedures and technologies used by the crime lab or agency and may last from several months to a year. This training covers:
- Evidence collection and processing protocols
- Use of forensic instruments
- Laboratory safety and chain-of-custody procedures
- Hands-on experience through internships or laboratory work during your education can also provide a foundation for this training
Specialized skills training
Forensic science technicians may require additional training in specific techniques depending on their area of focus. For example:
- Crime scene technicians: Receive specialized training in evidence handling, photography, fingerprint analysis and bloodstain pattern analysis.
- DNA analysts: Receive training on laboratory protocols for DNA extraction, amplification and comparison techniques.
- Digital forensics technicians: Learn to analyze digital evidence, recover deleted data and work with cybersecurity tools.
Licensing and background requirements
While Texas does not have specific state licensing requirements for forensic science technicians, many crime labs and law enforcement agencies require:
- Background checks: Technicians must pass extensive background checks, especially if they work with law enforcement agencies or handle sensitive criminal evidence.
- Drug testing: Employers often require candidates to pass drug tests as part of the hiring process.
Continuing education
- Forensic science is a continually evolving field, and many professionals pursue continuing education to stay current with new technologies and methods. Employers may encourage technicians to attend workshops, conferences and pursue additional training sessions to maintain up-to-date knowledge.
Internships and practical experience
- Internships are highly valued in this field, providing hands-on experience that can be a critical advantage when applying for jobs. Many universities offer internship programs in collaboration with local crime labs or law enforcement agencies. Forensic science students in Texas can pursue internships with agencies like the Texas Department of Public Safety or private forensic labs.
- Volunteering or entry-level lab assistant positions may also provide relevant experience before securing a full-time forensic technician job.
Cost of living in Texas
The cost of living in Texas is lower compared to many other U.S. states, and even in metro areas where cost of living is generally higher, Texas still lists under the national average. Forensic science technicians need to consider housing, utilities, transportation and other daily expenses when choosing where to live and work.
Cost of living overview:
Texas’ cost of living is lower than the national average. The Cost of Living Index rates Texas at about 93, which means it is about 7% less expensive than the national average (the U.S. average is 100). Individual cities may rank higher or lower, for example, Dallas is 2% higher than the national average and Plano is 16% higher.
Affordable areas:
Forensic science technicians can live comfortably in Texas in most of the major industry hub cities. As an example, Austin is 1% lower than the national average, San Antonio is 9% lower and Houston is 6% lower than the national average.
Higher cost areas:
In higher-cost areas, it’s essential that salaries match the living expenses. Often, employers in cities like Plano, Gainesville City, Dallas and Hutto 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
Texas has several state-specific and regional professional associations that support forensic science technicians. These organizations provide networking, training, certification and professional development opportunities tailored to forensic professionals in Texas. Some notable ones include:
Texas Division of the International Association for Identification (TXDIAI): The Texas Division of the IAI (TXDIAI) is the state branch of the International Association for Identification (IAI), a global organization focused on forensic identification techniques, such as fingerprint analysis, crime scene investigation and forensic photography. TXDIAI offers conferences, training workshops and certification opportunities specific to forensic professionals in Texas.
Texas Association of Crime Laboratory Directors (TACLD): TACLD is a professional organization for leaders and directors of crime labs in Texas. While the focus is on lab leadership, technicians working in crime labs benefit from the organization’s commitment to improving forensic lab practices across the state. TACLD organizes meetings, shares best practices and provides updates on new legislation, scientific developments and operational improvements for Texas crime labs.
Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS): SWAFS is a regional professional organization serving forensic science professionals in Texas and nearby states. It provides training, education and certification opportunities across a range of forensic disciplines. SWAFS hosts annual conferences, workshops and seminars for forensic science professionals to learn about new techniques, case studies and legal developments in forensic science.
Texas Association of Forensic Document Examiners (TAFDE): TAFDE is a Texas-based association specifically for professionals who specialize in forensic document examination, including handwriting analysis, authentication and document fraud detection. TAFDE provides training, certification and networking opportunities for forensic document examiners in Texas.
The forensic science technician salary guide strives to provide a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the forensic science profession specifically in Texas. 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.