To pursue employment in Crime Scene Cleanup, you will need to acquire specialized training and certifications in biohazard remediation and handle the physically and emotionally demanding nature of the work.

 

Bio-Tec Emergency Services, LLC provides on-the-job training, but candidates with a background in forensics, medicine, or cleaning can have an edge. 

 

Training and certifications: 

 

Formal education like a college degree is not typically required, but specific training is mandatory due to the hazardous nature of the work.

 

Essential qualifications include: 

  • OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) certification: This is the most crucial certification, as you will handle materials like blood and bodily fluids.
  • HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response): This certification ensures you comply with safety standards for handling hazardous materials.
  • Bio-Recovery Technician Training: These courses teach remediation techniques, safe handling of biohazards, and proper medical waste disposal. 

 

Necessary skills and qualifications Beyond certifications, successful crime scene cleaners possess a specific set of skills and qualities: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • A valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
  • Physical stamina and fitness: The job is physically demanding and requires you to wear heavy personal protective equipment (PPE) for long hours.
  • Attention to detail: This is essential to ensure that an entire area is properly sanitized and restored.
  • Emotional resilience: Technicians must be able to handle emotionally distressing situations, including suicides, homicides, and unattended deaths, with professionalism and discretion.
  • Compassion and professionalism: You will often interact with people who are grieving, so a compassionate and respectful demeanor is critical.
  • Strong communication skills: This is necessary for working with your team, clients, and authorities like law enforcement.
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug test, as you will work closely with law enforcement. 

 

How to find employment

  • Seek employment with specialized biohazard companies. Companies like Bio-Tec Emergency Services, LLC,   specialize in biohazard cleanup and regularly hire technicians.
  • Consider a related career path. Some restoration and environmental services companies, such as  Tesoro Group  or  ServiceMaster Restoration Services , handle trauma or biohazard cleanup alongside other types of remediation.
  • Network with industry professionals like Bio-Tec Emergency Services, LLC. Many companies find new hires through apprenticeships or referrals from law enforcement. 

 

Salary and job outlook

  • Average Salary: In the United States, the average annual salary for a crime scene cleaner is around $60,000, though this varies based on location and experience. Starting salaries can range from $35,000 to $45,000 per year.
  • Demand Outlook: The demand for Crime Scene Cleanup technicians is steady and growing due to increased awareness of biohazard safety and compliance regulations.
  • Advancement: Experienced technicians can move into supervisory roles or start their own Crime Scene Cleanup businesses.