Salaries vary from state to state; but with experience, forensic scientists may eventually earn annual salaries between $35,000 and $50,000. Forensic scientists employed by the government are typically able to work a 40-hour work week.
The Merit Promotion Plan is established to ensure a systematic means of selection for promotion based on merit in accordance with Title 5, United States Code, Section 2301, Merit Systems Principles (5 USC 2301) and Section 2302, Prohibited Personnel Practices (5 USC 2302).
Promotion Points. Points are earned for each award, qualification, physical fitness testing scores and a host of other achievements. Each grade has a specific number or points possible. For example, sergeants have 340 possible Training points, based on Army Physical Fitness Training scores and months deployed.