Forensic Scientist-Latent Fingerprint T, I, II, III

Duties

Identify, examine, analyze, evaluate and interpret evidence in the investigation of crimes; use forensic science in the analysis of evidence in order to reach scientific conclusions in the area of Latent Fingerprints; effectively communicate results and findings, verbally and in writing, to the appropriate parties.

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

Requirements

Forensic Scientist Latent Fingerprint SCT – Trainee:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Latent Fingerprint – Entry Level:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and One (1) year of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Latent Fingerprint – Journeyman Level:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and Three (3) years of examination training and/or casework;
OR
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and Five (5) years of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Latent Fingerprint - Advanced Level:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and Eight (8) years of examination training and/or casework;
OR
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and Ten (10) years of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
• Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.
• Refer to the Crime Laboratory Director's chart of standards for specific qualifying criteria.

Preferred Knowledge

• Examinations conducted by a Latent Fingerprint unit
• Theories and techniques of processing, classification and comparison of latent fingerprint-type evidence
• Examinations conducted by a Latent Fingerprint unit
• Use of equipment and accessories used in a latent fingerprint unit
• Use of Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)
• Operations, services, procedures and activities of a forensic laboratory
• Crime scene investigations
• Methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and evaluation
• Operation of forensic instruments, equipment and tools
• Operation of basic power and hand tools
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices
• Pertinent Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations
• Computers and various programs and data bases
• Scientific Working Group on Friction Ridge Analysis, Study and Technology (SWGFAST)
• International Association for Identification (IAI)
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
• American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors - Laboratory Accreditation Board, and other applicable quality assurance standards

Preferred Skills & Abilities

• Successfully pass Form Blindness test
• Maintain appropriate visual discrimination and perception needed for making observations
• Define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
• Recognize anomalies, formulate hypotheses and take appropriate action
• Perform forensic evidence collection, identification and analysis
• Operate a variety of forensic laboratory equipment and instruments in a safe and effective manner
• Work independently in the absence of supervision
• Prepare complex technical written and verbal reports
• Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships
• Identify similarities and differences between shades, colors, shapes, sounds, forms, textures or physical appearance associated with job related objects, materials and tasks
• Interpret a variety of technical instructions
• Plan, organize and coordinate work assignments
• Communicate clearly and concisely
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation

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