Biometric Identification Specialist I

Duties

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Processes incoming biometric transactions from law enforcement agencies.
• Performs initial image accuracy processing steps, for all incoming transactions to ensure that biometric images are captured correctly.
• Identifies any problems related to image accuracy and contacts the associated law enforcement agency to correct the electronic transmission.
• Assists the Coroner Division in the identification of the deceased by automated or manual biometric identification methods.
• Conducts ongoing quality control reviews of biometric data, such as Livescans, by correcting records that have the wrong subject biometrics or demographics attached, and maintaining, updating, and correcting records in the ABIS.
• Participates in annual accreditation audits for the Crime Lab.
• Conducts automated and manual biometric comparisons and searches.
• Performs the technical verification phase of the system results, including review and disposition (e.g. Hit, No Hit) of the ABIS candidate lists and confirms that the submitted biometric record is assigned to a correct and valid file number.
• Compares the candidate’s fingerprint, palm print, facial and other biometric images to the submitted images and determines whether there is a match.
• Assigns incoming record to an existing file number or assigns a new file number and confirms that the submitted record is assigned to a correct and valid file number.
• Reviews data maintained in the ABIS for image and data errors.
• Conducts research to ensure accurate identification numbers are assigned to each record, including to either assign a new identification number, separate records, merge records or locate the correct identification number.
• Answers phone inquiries from law enforcement booking facilities and other public agencies to assist in determining type of biometric examination needed (e.g. fingerprint analysis, mobile identification, face recognition/identification, iris identification, etc.).
• Discusses quality of biometric data needed for accurate comparison and matching, clarifies reasons for rejected biometric data submitted by facilities, and relays information to Cal-ID staff regarding problematic/rejected biometric transactions.
• Participates in crime lab tours, explains the purpose and work of the Cal-ID section and answers questions as needed.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, Computer Forensics or Forensic Psychology

Requirements

Knowledge of

• Current biometric technologies, including fingerprints, palm prints, Automated Biometric Identification System, biometric capture devices and computer networking
• Standard terminology used to describe friction ridge and other biometric details
• Modified Henry and/or National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Fingerprint Classification System
• Physical characteristics of friction ridge skin and other biometrics and aspects of comparison required for an identification

Ability to

• Process data and biometric images through the ABIS and become proficient in the operation of ABIS
• Identify and classify friction ridge impressions and other biometric data using an appropriate classification system
• Utilize county and department specific technology and general office software programs
• Learn and operate Adobe and other imaging programs for photographic markup and enlargements
• Understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
• Independently reason logically to analyze data, reach valid conclusions and make sound recommendations
• Work non-traditional hours (such as holidays, weekends, evenings, and graveyard shift) and on-call based on departmental needs or assignment

Education and Experience

Option I

• Minimum of 40 hours of formal training in friction ridge examination with a certificate of completion from a forensic training provider as deemed acceptable by the Sheriff-Coroner Department.
And
• Possession of an AA degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 3 semester units in Criminal Justice, Forensics, or Science (such as formal, applied, natural or physical), Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) related courses.

Option II

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a combined minimum of 24 semester units in the field of Science (such as formal, applied, natural or physical), Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) related courses.

License/Certification

• Valid California Driver License, Class C or higher, by date of appointment may be required for some positions.

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