Crime scene investigators collect forensic evidence, such as fibers, hair, weapons, or tissue samples to determine its importance in the investigation. Typically, crime scene investigators are forensic scientists or field analysts who have been specifically trained to preserve and collect evidence. The most applicable training for working as a crime scene investigator is a bachelor's degree in forensic science, forensic anthropology, or forensic biology. Many schools also offer certificates and two-year courses in crime scene investigation. While a degree in forensic science is not necessary to work as a crime scene investigator, those who obtain an education in other fields such as criminal justice or general studies may be required to complete additional forensic training. Crime scene investigators spend some of their time at crime scenes collecting evidence and taking notes on scene details. But much of their time is also spent in the lab examining evidence under a microscope. Some of the time in the laboratory is spent alone, analyzing samples and recording data, while other times they can be found working with other forensic specialists as a team. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a CSI salary varies from region to region, but is between $38,000 and 100,000. Factors that factor into pay scale include: type of employer (local, state, federal), geographic location, and industry specializations. A crime scene investigator working for local government has an average annual salary of $61,230, averaging $29.44 per hour. The salary of a crime scene investigator in a federal executive branch averages $75,390, with an hourly wage of $36.25. The pay of a crime scene investigator in state government averages $54,940, with an hourly wage of $26.41. A crime scene investigator, when not a private entity, is usually a member of law enforcement. A CSI is often employed by a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency, meaning he or she may work for a city's sheriff's department, a state police department, and even the FBI. Although the stereotype given to forensic science through popular television series suggests that it is directly linked to the human species, not all forensic careers involve human-to-human crimes. There are many fields dedicated directly to animals, such as veterinary forensics and wildlife forensics. In conclusion, crime scene investigation involves the use of physical evidence at the crime scene and the use of deductive and inductive reasoning to gain knowledge of the events surrounding the crime. They are therefore an integral part of the law enforcement process.