Crime Scene Technician

Duties

Examples of Duties

• Preserves the integrity of crime scenes, collects and preserves items of evidence, performs the initial evaluation of such evidence, and takes notes of crime scene observation.
• Collects evidence for storage and forensic laboratory examination, including proper evaluation, labeling, sealing, packaging, and storing in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.
• Creates sketches, measurements, and photographic and videotape documentation of crimes scenes and evidence and properly secures and transports evidence as needed.
• Examines and processes evidence utilizing established guidelines for the presence of trace evidence, latent prints, footwear, blood stains, etc. and documents said processes to ensure legality of actions for future depositions, freedom of information requests, and court testimony.
• Provides investigative assistance to law enforcement officers, agencies, and victims following established procedures and guidelines; participates in public education events.
• Prepares reports, records, logs, and related documents following established guidelines.
• Maintains work environment, equipment, and vehicles utilized in the day-to-day activities of unit operations.
• Attends autopsies to document and collect pertinent information.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

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

Requirements

Typical Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

License and Certification Requirements:

• Valid driver's license.

Knowledge of (position requirements at entry):

• Inventory principles, practices, and procedures.
• Applicable equipment and tools utilized in the industry.
• Customer service principles.
• Criminal justice system.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, codes, and/or statutes.
• Basic criminal forensics.
• Property accounting procedures.

Skills in(position requirements at entry):

• Using a computer and related software applications.
• Providing customer service.
• Monitoring and maintaining evidence and inventory.
• Preparing and maintaining reports, logs, records, and files.
• Using applicable tools and equipment in the industry.
• Maintaining legal chain of custody.
• Safeguarding evidence.
• Communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.

Supplemental Information

Material and Equipment Used:

• Motor Vehicle
• Microscope
• Typewriter
• Two-Way radio
• Camera
• Photographic Equipment
• Fingerprinting Powders and Chemicals
• Video Cameras and Recorders
• Various Tools
• Computerized Equipment
• Standard Office Equipment

Positions in this class typically require:

• Climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions.

Very Heavy Work:

• Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Incumbents may be subjected to fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, blood and other bodily fluids, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, and work space restrictions.

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