Property and Evidence Specialist

Duties

Essential Functions

• Functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: receive, log, inventory and package all property and evidence in an appropriate manner to maintain its chain of custody; establish and maintain files, logs, reports and documents including data entry and maintaining accurate evidence tracking data base; testify in court on the chain of custody of evidence; release and issue property and evidence to victims and suspects according to guidelines, court orders and court dispositions; make arrangements for and participates in the process of the destruction of narcotics and firearms according to state and federal laws; prepare and submit evidence for analysis to other agencies; maintain record of transaction; operate photographic equipment for various purposes; handle and ensure the proper storage and preservation of a variety of materials, including hazardous items such as firearms, drugs, body fluids and chemicals; operate motor vehicle to transport property and evidence; identify property eligible to be sold at police auctions and makes logistical arrangements for police auctions; maintain inventory of and orders office supplies and specialized property and evidence supplies; prepare and maintain a variety of reports and forms, which may require the use of arithmetic calculations; receive and screen visitors and telephone calls; take messages; build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service; and perform other duties related to this position.

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

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Any combination of education and/or experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: two years of responsible clerical, office assistant or storekeeping experience which involved the receipt, storage and issue of materials AND training equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. License or Certificate: A valid California driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of: policies, procedures, laws, rules and regulations regarding the chain of custody; custody of property and evidence; storage and inventory methods and procedures; office management practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment; proper and safe handling and storage of various kinds of hazardous materials. Ability to: read and interpret laws, rules, regulations, court orders and court dispositions; use initiative and sound independent judgment within established guidelines; organize, prioritize and coordinate work activities; communicate effectively and deal tactfully with law enforcement officers, victims, suspects and others contacted in the course of the work; maintain accurate records and files; handle hazardous materials safely; operate photographic equipment; operate computer equipment and software applications related to assignment; type at a speed necessary for successful job performance; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; and work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• On an intermittent basis, sit at desk for long periods of time; intermittently walk, stand, bend, squat, twist and reach while retrieving and/or returning files; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation; use telephone and use a keyboard to communicate through written means, review information and enter/retrieve data; see and read characters on computer screen; and lift 50 lbs of weight. Primary work is performed in a warehouse environment with fluorescent lighting and moderate to high noise level. Some movement is required from office to office and there is exposure to the external environment when going to outlying offices and storage areas. Occasional exposure to hazardous items such as firearms, drugs, body fluids, and chemical while performing duties related to the storage and preservation of evidence. Work is frequently disrupted by the need to respond to in-person and telephone inquiries.

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