How much money do forensic scientists make?
The best way to answer this question is to look at the job notices on the forensic websites. In our own lab, however, we have three basic pay ranges: Forensic Analyst I, II, and III. The entry level is FAI and the range is about $34,133 to $46,405 depending on experience. The county commissioners typically allow supervisors to grant merit pay increases of 1% to 3% a year. There is no automatic cost of living increase in Hamilton County. After about five years, an analyst is eligible for promotion to FAII. The range for this position is about $42,619 to $58,011. After ten years employment, promotion is possible to FAIII. This pay range is $53,082 to $74,360. Salaries and benefits vary of course between geographic regions.
