Careers in Biometrics: Engineers and Technicians

PASSWORDS AND KEYS ARE NOT THE WAY THINGS work anymore. Today, you can unlock your smart phone by touching the screen or gain access to a building just by looking into a device by the door that could be mistaken for a small spy camera. These are just two of the many ways biometrics have moved from sci-fi fantasy into mainstream reality. Biometrics is the measurement and statistical analysis of a person's unique physical and behavioral traits, usually used for purposes of identification and access control. The most commonly used traits include fingerprints, iris patterns, DNA, and other unique patterns found in the face, voice, and palm. Less common are characteristics like keystroke patterns or word choice in written materials. Though generally divided into two categories, engineers and technicians, job roles include a number of titles such as coders, analysts, systems designers, security consultants, database managers, and readers. There are also numerous specialties within the field, making it easy to focus on particular industries or areas of interest.Every day, biometrics is playing a bigger role in our lives and that is creating a huge number of career opportunities. The demand for biometrics professionals is increasing at all levels to support various government and private sector biometrics programs. From law enforcement to financial services to consumer electronics and much more, employers are looking for individuals who want to be part of this exciting profession. There are no special degree requirements to get started in this field. In fact, there are few degree programs specifically for biometrics. Most biometrics engineers start out as software engineers, having earned a bachelor's degree in computer programming, computer information systems, or software engineering. They then get additional training in human behavior, patterning, and the technology behind biometrics either through their school or one of the many online training sites. Biometrics technicians have an even lower threshold to entry. It is possible to start out with only a high school diploma. In both cases, employers typically provide on-the-job training that focuses on their particular application or business model.Out in the job market, you will find all kinds of jobs posted. There is a range of positions from internships and entry-level positions to advanced research roles. This is a good field to join, especially if you are looking for opportunities and job security. It is a field that is on the upswing, meaning there should be plenty of jobs in the biometrics field for years to come. The pay is good, the work is satisfying, and because biometrics technology is being utilized around the world, there are opportunities for travel.