How to Become a Fingerprint Analyst

A fingerprint analyst is a professional scientist who obtains, studies and analyzes fingerprints as well as palm prints and footprints as part of a crime scene investigation. They may also be called forensic science technicians, forensic print analysts, fingerprint experts, fingerprint examiners, latent fingerprint analysts and latent print examiners. Some of the fingerprint analyst’s duties include:

• Sweep crime scenes carefully to find fingerprints
• Process different types of fingerprint samples
• Label and identify different prints
• Use various computer and photographic equipment to enhance visible prints
• Use chemicals to identify fingerprint evidence
• Compare the identity of latent prints to known impressions
• Preserve print specimens for laboratory analysis
• Prepare detailed reports on the test results
• Submit fingerprint images into state and national fingerprint databases
• Examine physical evidence like hair, skin, wood, fiber or soil residue
• Testify as expert witnesses in civil or criminal trials

Career Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) places fingerprint analysts in the category of forensic science technicians, and the BLS reports that these professionals should see an employment growth of 17% during the 2016-2026 decade. This should result in the creation of about 2,600 new forensic science technician jobs by the year 2026. Scientific and technological advances in the field of forensic science will increase the usefulness of forensic information, which will increase the demand for fingerprint analysts and forensic science technicians in general. Also contributing to the demand for these workers is the increasing amount of crime, which will result in more forensic science technicians to get the job done as quickly as possible.

Salary

According to a May 2017 wage report by the BLS, forensic science technicians earned an average annual wage of $61,220. Those at the lowest 10% earned $33,880 while those in the top 90% earned $95,600. The average hourly wage was $29.43. Wage potential can vary by training, degree, work experience, location and employer. Below are the five top-paying states for forensic science technicians followed by the five lowest-paying states. The list below demonstrates the big part geographic location can play in wage potential.

Here you can see a geographic difference in wage, but comparative to cost-of-living, these salaries are still strong for their respective areas.

How to Become a Fingerprint Analyst

Although there may be a couple of different paths towards becoming a fingerprint analyst, the most common is by earning a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or an applied science field with a focus on fingerprint analysis. Students should take courses like criminal justice, biological sciences, chemistry, math, biological principles, genetics, criminalistics, physics, math, criminal justice, chemistry forensic science and criminalistics.

Some bachelor’s degree programs often pursued by students interested in careers as fingerprint analysts include:

• Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science
• Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice – Forensics
• Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Forensics

Requirements to work as a fingerprint analyst vary by employer. Some employers may require a master’s degree in criminal justice. Some employers may also require their fingerprint analysts complete DOJ or FBI Basic and Advanced fingerprint courses. These courses, which may be beneficial for certification, include the following.

• Classifying Fingerprints
• Advanced Comparison for Tenprint Examiners
• The Data Behind the Fingerprints
• Scientific Basics of Fingerprints – Classifying, Recording and Comparing
• Scientific Basics of Fingerprints – Recording
• FBI Fingerprint Examiner Training Program

In addition to having the education and work experience, fingerprint analysts must also have a strong background in the operation of the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS). The IAFI, an FBI-run national fingerprint system, assists law federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in solving and preventing crime using various methods of fingerprint analysis, including:

• Automated fingerprint search capabilities
• Electronic exchange of fingerprints
• Electronic image storage
• Latent search capability

The IAFIS also stores information on mug shots, physical characteristics and criminal histories as they’re submitted by the federal, state and local law enforcement agents on a voluntary basis. The IAFIS currently has more than 70 million subjects in its database. It also has more than 73,000 known or suspected terrorists. More than 61 million entries were submitted to the IAFIS database in 2010.

Day in the Life of a Fingerprint Analyst

Fingerprint analysts use several technologies to get the fingerprint samples and then compare them to others in the fingerprint databases. Although they spend a lot of their time working in the laboratory, they may also be called to work out in the field to retrieve evidence and fingerprints. They may also spend long hours sitting at a desk, working on a computer or studying fingerprint cards and looking for matches in the lines and swirls.

The fingerprints may be lifted and preserved by crime scene investigators or detectives at a crime scene. They then bring it to the laboratory where the fingerprint analyst compares it with other known samples to try to identify who the sample belongs to. Forensic fingerprint analysts typically work for government agencies, such as law enforcement agencies.

Once they’ve completed their analysis, they submit written reports to the detectives or to the court system if they’re used as evidence in a court case. Duties the fingerprint analyst performs as part of the job include:

• Visiting crime scenes or the morgue to obtain evidence
• Collecting evidence and storing it in containers to preserve it
• Operating and maintaining lab apparatus and equipment
• Reviewing forensic analysts’ reports
• Collecting dust impressions to obtain fingerprints
• Testifying in court cases as expert witnesses

Fingerprint analysts generally work a 40-hour week during daytime hours, but they may be called in after hours or on weekends if their services are required at a crime scene or in the lab. Their work may give them exposure to infectious diseases, contaminants and hazardous conditions. They may be required to wear protective clothing when out in the field.

Licensure, Certifications and Continuing Education

Fingerprint analysts are required to complete continuing education courses to remain knowledgeable of all the latest technologies in this field. The continuing education courses are also necessary to obtain and maintain certification. The International Association for Identification offers these two certifications, which can be obtained by passing a certification exam administered by the International Association for Identification.

Latent Print Certification

This requires a bachelor’s degree, two years of full-time experience in identifying and comparing latent print material and 80 hours of certification-board approved training in latent print matters. If the candidate has an associate’s degree, he or she must have three years of experience.

Tenprint Examiner Certification

This requires at least an associate’s degree or 60 hours of college credits, two years of full-time experience in filing, recording, classifying and searching tenprints as well as 40 hours of board-approved continuing education courses in classifying, recording, comparing and searching of tenprints and 16 hours of board-approved training in court testimony.

Other certifications offered through the International Association for Identification include:

• Bloodstain Pattern
• Crime scene
• Footwear
• Forensic Art
• Forensic Photography & Imaging
• Forensic Video

Educational Path

You’ll need specific educational credentials and specialized training to begin your trip as a forensic fingerprint analyst. Most positions just need at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, or chemistry. These programs will give you the knowledge in physical evidence analysis, anatomy, and scientific principles that are vital to fingerprint examination.

Some entry-level positions accept candidates with an associate’s degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics points out that whatever degree path you choose, specialized coursework in physical science, biology, or forensic science creates solid foundations for this career.

You must complete specialized training before analyzing fingerprints independently. The International Association for Identification (IAI) requires a minimum of 160 hours of Certification Board approved training in latent print matters. You should complete this training within 5 years before applying for certification.

The coursework has:

• Friction skin physiology and morphology
• Detection and recovery techniques
• Evidence photography and preservation
• Enhancement and analysis methods
• Comparison documentation and reporting procedures

Agencies like the ATF put applicants without prior experience through a tough two-year training program that combines on-the-job training with formal classes. This detailed preparation will give a solid foundation to identify, photograph, develop, and classify prints.

Graduate certificates can improve your qualifications. To cite an instance, GW’s online Graduate Certificate in Latent Print Examination lines up with standards set by the Organization of Scientific Area Committees. Such programs give you the knowledge covered in certification exams and make you nearly casework ready.

Note that on-the-job training matters even after formal education. New technicians work under supervision before handling cases independently. This apprenticeship period varies by specialty but usually lasts less than a year and helps develop practical expertise in laboratory procedures and evidence handling techniques.

Internships and Practical Training

Hands-on experience through internships is a vital step to become a successful forensic fingerprint analyst. Government agencies, law enforcement departments, and forensic laboratories are a great way to get practical training that complements your formal education.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation runs specialized fingerprinting classes in West Virginia. These include hands-on courses like Classifying Fingerprints, Scientific Basics of Fingerprints, and Advanced Comparison for Tenprint Examiners. Employees of authorized agencies can take these courses that last between 16 and 40 hours.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) welcomes students for unpaid summer internships at their laboratories in Atlanta and Beltsville. You’ll conduct research, contribute to papers, and create scientific conference presentations with expert mentors during these competitive programs.

These internship programs have specific eligibility requirements:

• Junior or senior undergraduate status, with graduate students getting preference
• Enrollment in relevant degree programs (physical science, forensic science, or criminalistics)
• Commitment of 150+ hours over 4-12 weeks
• Knowing how to pass background investigations

The Defense Forensic Science Center needs fingerprints, photos, and DNA samples from applicants. Students must submit all information eight weeks before the start date.

State and local opportunities extend beyond government agencies. To name just one example, the Westchester County Forensic Lab in New York welcomes interns during spring, summer, fall, and winter sessions. Students need at least 160 hours of practical experience to complete their degree.

While most internships don’t pay, they help you learn about collecting, documenting, and analyzing fingerprints. One instructor points out, “When students have creative liberty to make decisions about what something looks like, and then share it with other students who see it differently, that’s when they’re most engaged”.

These experiences help you develop everything in evidence collection, fingerprint lifting techniques, and analysis methods—skills you need to advance to entry-level positions.

Entry-Level Employment

Breaking into the forensic fingerprint analyst job market comes with its share of challenges and chances for newcomers. Your first position after completing education and training needs strategic planning and persistence.

The job hunt requires you to be flexible about location since positions are limited and competition runs high. Hiring managers report that each forensic position attracts a flood of applicants. A nationwide search works better than focusing on just one area. Many specialists end up relocating to land their first role. Some professionals have even moved across multiple states to break into the field.

Entry-level salaries vary by a lot based on location and specific agency:

• Low range: $18.00-$19.60 hourly ($37,438-$40,824 annually)
• Mid range: $21.00-$24.70 hourly ($43,620-$51,276 annually)
• Upper range: $31.30 hourly ($65,040 annually)

Government job portals offer the most reliable path to employment. State agencies often list positions on separate job boards through their main government websites.

The hiring process takes time – usually six months or more. It includes panel interviews, writing assessments, knowledge exams, drug tests, and full background investigations. Employers look for steadfast dedication since training new fingerprint analysts requires substantial investment. Mentioning plans to leave within a few years during interviews could hurt your chances.

New hires should expect more training requirements. DEA Forensic Chemists must complete a 4-month Basic Forensic Chemist Course at the DEA Academy in Quantico. This combines hands-on laboratory training with classroom instruction. ATF requires fresh specialists without prior experience to finish a two-year training program working with senior specialists.

Landing an entry-level forensic position might take a year or longer. Patience and persistence matter throughout your job search.

Skills and Personal Qualities

A successful forensic fingerprint analyst needs specific technical skills and personal qualities that make them stand out. Pattern recognition is the life-blood of this profession. Labs look for people who are much better at visual pattern-matching than typical candidates. Regular hiring methods like college transcripts or interviews can’t easily measure this special skill.

The job needs patience since analysts spend long hours studying fingerprints at their desk. They must spot tiny differences in prints that others might miss, which takes incredible attention to detail. Staying objective is crucial – analysts need to judge evidence without bias to serve justice properly.

Strong communication skills matter just as much, even though the work can be solitary. These specialists often testify about their findings in court. They need to explain complex technical details clearly to judges and juries. The best-paying jobs in this field usually go to experts who shine at courtroom testimony.

Technical skills include:

• Fingerprint classification and pattern analysis
• Quality assurance and compliance with standards
• Operation of biometric equipment like LiveScan and AFIS

The most successful analysts welcome change and keep learning. Technology evolves faster with state-of-the-art systems like automated fingerprint recognition. Career growth depends on staying adaptable and developing professionally.

Certification and Professional Development

Professional certifications will raise your credibility as a forensic fingerprint analyst. The International Association for Identification (IAI) provides the most recognized certifications for both Latent Print and Tenprint Fingerprint Examiners.

IAI certification needs 160 hours of board-approved training in latent print analysis and 16 hours of courtroom testimony training. The educational requirements change based on experience. Candidates with bachelor’s degrees need two years of experience, while associate degree holders need three years. This creates multiple paths to certification.

The certification exam has three challenging parts:

• Written test (85% minimum score)
• Comparison test (12 correct conclusions out of 15 without errors)
• Pattern interpretation test (32 correct out of 35)

Professionals must recertify every five years and get 80 continuing education credits. This requirement helps analysts keep their skills current.

Other options include TSA’s Trusted Agent certification for biometric collection and GW’s Graduate Certificate in Latent Print Examination.

The FBI provides exceptional training through specialized courses such as:

• Advanced Comparison for Tenprint Examiners
• Facial Comparison Training
• Scientific Basics of Fingerprints

While some fields have optional credentials, certain agencies make certification mandatory. ATF fingerprint specialists must get IAI certification after completing their original training.

Career Advancement Opportunities

A career in fingerprint analysis offers clear paths for growth after you establish yourself in entry-level roles. You’ll start by processing routine cases under supervision and take on more complex analyzes as you prove your skills.

Your career can expand into specialized roles after several years:

• Difficult surface processing
• Post-blast fingerprint recovery
• Decomposed remains analysis

Leadership roles become available as you progress, including laboratory supervisor, quality assurance manager, or crime lab director positions. These roles blend your technical expertise with administrative duties like budget management, policy development, and team supervision.

Government agencies have well-laid-out advancement tracks. The New York Division of Criminal Justice Services lets analysts progress from Fingerprint Examiner 1 (Grade 8) through Latent Print Examiner 4 (Grade 25).

Experienced analysts find opportunities in the private sector too. Consulting firms need fingerprint experts for case reviews and expert witness services, often with better pay.

Your earning potential varies by location. Florida fingerprint examiners make $59,090 annually, while their New York counterparts earn around $79,140.

Job competition remains high with only 2,260 projected openings through 2032. However, you can boost your advancement prospects with specialized expertise, advanced degrees, and professional certifications.

Sources:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/forensic-science-technicians.htm#tab-2