Forensic Science Technicians vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists: Who Earns More?
Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss out-earn Forensic Science Technicianss by $18K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Forensic Science Technicianss land at $72,060 and Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss at $90,150. The education gap is real: forensic science technician programs typically require bachelor's degree, while occupational health and safety specialist programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Forensic Science Technicianss is Illinois ($124,790); for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss it's District of Columbia ($111,530).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Forensic Science Technicians median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Forensic Science Technicianss or Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss?
Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss earn more nationally. The median is $72,060 for Forensic Science Technicianss versus $90,150 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss, a difference of $18K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Forensic Science Technicians or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Forensic Science Technicians or Occupational Health and Safety Specialists?
Forensic Science Technicians typically requires bachelor's degree. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Forensic Science Technicianss get paid the most?
Illinois is the top-paying state for Forensic Science Technicianss at $124,790/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Forensic Science Technicians vs. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Illinois, Forensic Science Technicianss earn $124,790 vs. $98,270 for Occupational Health and Safety Specialistss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.