Crime scene investigators collect forensic evidence, such as fiber, hair, weapon, or tissue samples, to determine their importance in investigations. Typically, crime scene investigators are forensic pathologists or field analysts who are specially trained to preserve and collect evidence. The most applicable education 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, as well as two-year courses in crime scene investigation. Although a degree in forensic science is not required to work as a crime scene investigator, those training in other fields such as criminal justice or general studies may be required to complete training additional forensics. Crime scene investigators spend some of their time at crime scenes gathering evidence and taking notes about details of the scene. But they also spend much of their time in the lab examining evidence under a microscope. Some of this lab time is spent analyzing specimens and recording data, and other times they may work in teams with other forensic specialists. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the salary of a CSI varies from region to region, but ranges from $38,000 to $100,000. Factors assigned to the pay scale include: employer type (local, state, federal), geographic location, and field specializations. A crime scene investigator working for local government has a median annual salary of $61,230, or an average of $29.44 per hour. The salary for a crime scene investigator in a federal executive branch averages $75,390, with an hourly wage of $36.25. The average salary for a crime scene investigator in state government is $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 most often employed by a local, state or federal law enforcement agency, this means they 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 related to the human species, not all forensic careers involve human-to-human crimes. There are many fields directly dedicated to animals, such as veterinary forensics and wildlife forensics. In conclusion, crime scene investigation involves using physical evidence at the crime scene and using deductive and inductive reasoning to gain knowledge about the events surrounding the crime. They are therefore an integral part of the law enforcement process..