Forensic Laboratory Technologist - Latent Prints

Duties

Essential Functions: All Assigned Forensic Laboratory Technologists

• Exemplify the Department values, both on and off duty.
• Perform tests and handling of evidentiary samples to aid in the forensic analysis of evidence; preserve the integrity of evidence while performing such tests; issue reports related to preliminary and/or conclusive examinations.
• Conduct validation of new analysis protocols or methods.
• Operate, troubleshoot, upgrade and fix problems with specialized forensic software, case management database, and other applications; operate, maintain and troubleshoot analytical instruments.
• Operate cameras and scanners to capture and record digital images.
• Prepare specialized analytical reagents, standards, controls and solutions; ensure lot number documentation with GHS label warnings.
• Perform quality control checks.
• Collect, log and identify evidence received by the laboratory; assign accession numbers; maintain security and proper chain of custody.
• Coordinate hazardous waste disposal, following proper safety protocols.
• Prepare training aids and specialized laboratory kits.
• Conduct monthly and quarterly safety inspections; maintain safety regulations; maintain MSDS/SDS sheets.
• Testify in court as to the reports issued.

In addition to the essential functions listed for all Forensic Laboratory Technologists, when assigned to the Latent Print Examination discipline:

• Determine the suitability of friction ridge impressions for database searches and automated friction ridge matching; determine anatomical source and distal orientation of friction ridge impressions; encode friction ridge impressions in multiple database software platforms; screen candidate lists returned from database searches; manually screen potential positive candidates against database quality impressions.
• Use digital imaging software to enhance and document friction ridge impressions following approved forensic methods.
• Process items of evidence for friction ridge impressions; select the appropriate development techniques for the surface or targeted residue; determine the sequence of processing techniques; identify impressions suitable for recovery on items of evidence; use forensic photography techniques to recover impressions.

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

Requirements

Training, Education and Experience

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a chemical, physical, or biological science, or a forensic science related field. Applicants MUST attach a copy of their LEGIBLE transcript(s), which demonstrates proof of educational requirements, to their application at the time of submission as outlined in the Application Filling Section. Failure to attach a legible transcript will result in automatic disqualification.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Nevada driver license.
• Be a citizen/naturalized citizen or permanent resident alien without conditions on status of the United States of America by the date of the first test instrument.
• Be at least 18 years old by the date of the first test instrument.

Best Candidates Will Have

• Experience working in a forensic laboratory.
• Experience utilizing AFIS or processing latent print evidence.

Conditions of Employment - In addition to the General Conditions of Employment, found here, the following specific conditions of employment and physical conditions apply to this position.

• Personal Appearance: While on duty, and/or representing the Department, uniformed or otherwise, all Department employees will be neat and clean in their appearance in public. Employees are prohibited from attaching, affixing, or displaying objects, articles or jewelry on or through the nose, tongue, eyebrow or other exposed body part, except the ears for females, while on duty. Employees are prohibited from stretching or "gauging" their earlobes. All jewelry implants will not be exposed or visible while on duty. Tattoos or branding will not be exposed or visible while on duty and/or representing the Department. Such markings must be covered by clothing. Markings that cannot be covered by clothing will be covered using neutral-toned bandages or patches except for hands, neck, head, or face tattoos. Makeup is not permissible to cover a tattoo. Tattoos or branding anywhere on the body that promote racism/discrimination, indecency, extremist or supremacist philosophies, lawlessness, violence, or contain sexually
• explicit material are prohibited.
• Required to submit a DNA sample for entry into the LVMPD DNA Staff Elimination Index System.
• Will be subjected to random drug testing as part of the LVMPD Department Drug Testing Program.
• Required to maintain a Nevada driver license for commuting between the regular workplace and offsite work locations, such as the courts.
• Must participate in a training program which may include written, oral, and practical exercises and competency tests.
• May be terminated from employment for failing to satisfactorily complete training within the period determined by lab management.
• Vision sufficient to read fine print on computers, distinguish fine details when looking through scientific instruments to examine evidence items, as well as distinguish color, contrast, patterns, and dimensions.
• Speech sufficient to render expert courtroom testimony and scientific instructions.
• Hearing sufficient to hear instructions, training content, and conversations.
• Agility and mobility sufficient to stand, walk, stoop, bend, reach, rotate and extend neck, and balance self while using laboratory and/or standard office equipment, as well as lift, push, and pull files, documents, laboratory equipment, and/or standard office equipment.
• Dexterity sufficient to manipulate instruments and small items accurately over an extended period of time, as well as write labels on test tubes and small testing vessels.
• Strength and mobility sufficient to lift moderately heavy items with or without aid of equipment.
• Endurance sufficient to sit or stand for long periods of time, as necessary.

Environmental Conditions

• Laboratory and office environment; latex gloves, respirators and/or air masks.
• Exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals; human body fluids; bloodborne pathogens; biological hazards, such as viruses and germs; and other hazardous evidence items.
• Exposure to computer screens.
• Road and traffic conditions while driving a vehicle when conducting Department business.

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