Forensic Scientist (Crime Scene)/Crime Scene Analyst

Duties

Duties and Responsibilities

• The Forensic Scientist Crime Scene/Crime Scene Analyst investigates crime scenes in various locations in the city; assists with sealing the crime scene to protect and preserve important and critical evidence(s) and ensures that all persons who enters/visits the crime scene do not tamper with any evidence to avoid “evidence tampering” which might become an issue in court proceedings. Collects fingerprints/palm prints, tire and shoe prints, tool mark impressions, firearms, wound imprints of the deceased person(s), hair, clothing, fibers, and biological evidence to facilitate positive identification and/or elimination; and analyzes and records crime scenes showing correlation between evidence and the scene and performs various chemical and photographic processes in the field or laboratory. Attends autopsies to photograph injuries and fingerprint the deceased for identification purposes. Photographs evidence at the crime scene that specifically correlates with collected data using digital cameras and other evidence deemed appropriate for the case.
• The incumbent observes and follows the established and/or standard evidence control procedures to maintain the proper chain-of-custody on evidence, collected evidence, proper packaging, storage, and integrity; and ensures evidence is locked securely in a duly designated location before and after analysis. Advises on scene response in each case, including those involving deaths, especially when homicide is suspected. Identifies and evaluates risks including but not limited to hazardous materials in the field and the laboratory. Conducts a wide variety of complex and difficult analyses; determines and decides the appropriate tests, methods, and procedures to use; and performs qualitative and quantitative analyses by using specific techniques, including but not limited to physical testing, visual analysis, identification and classification, comparisons, etc. Testifies in court as an expert witness in connection with the evidence processed, developed, and preserved. Prepares detailed reports and supplements; and accepts documents and bar codes evidence associated with each crime scene case. May provide technical guidance to lower-level staff in crime scene related topics. Updates and keeps informed of the current literature and precedence relevant to the forensic scientific fields and shares the same information to the immediate supervisor for proper disposition.

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

Requirements

Qualifications and Education

• A Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.
OR
• Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.


• In addition, applicants must have Specialized Experience. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licensure and Certifications

• Incumbent must be able to successfully complete the DFS Crime Scene Science Competency Testing.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license

Work Environment

• Work is performed in the field at the crime scenes; in the laboratory during the analysis, and autopsies, as well as in an office setting when preparing documentation/reports, etc. Also work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the elements and travel/walk over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces. The incumbent may be exposed to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens and is required to follow safe field and laboratory practices and wear protective clothing, including facial masks, safety glasses, gloves, etc. May be exposed to various objectionable material (e.g., pornography, etc.). The work may require the incumbent to be in unstable locations necessitating the wearing of a ballistic safety vest. The position requires the use of electronic communication devices including, but not limited to, cell phones, communication radios, and wireless computers.

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