Mechanical Engineering

A ballistics expert, or ballistics analyst, is a forensic scientist who works for the criminal justice system on cases involving ammunition. By examining explosives, bullet fragments, gunshot wounds and bullet holes, ballistics experts attempt to determine what types of weapons were used and the way in which they were fired. They may work collaboratively with other forensic experts to paint a full picture of an event. Ballistics experts may work outside of a typical 40-hour work week of daytime shifts.
Career Requirements
Degree Level Bachelor's degree
Degree Field Forensic science, biology, molecular biology, chemistry or physics
Experience 3 years' experience working as a forensic apprentice specializing in firearms analysis
Key Skills Communication, problem-solving and judgement skills; eye for detail; ability to prioritize evidence and follow laboratory procedures; advanced knowledge of firearms; knowledge of computerized forensic databases and familiarity with document creation software programs; laboratory equipment, crime scene investigation tools
Salary (2014) $55,360 per year (Median salary for forensic science technicians)
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2014), American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)