Forensic Specialist

Duties

Typical Tasks and Representative Duties

• Perform forensic tasks including crime scene protection, crime scene digital photography, evidence and portrait photography; develop and print black and white and color film in roll or sheet format.
• Collect evidence; proper preservation of evidence and examination of impression evidence, record papillary ridge structure; examine and evaluate other types of evidence.
• Recover latent fingerprints using a variety of powders, chemicals and light sources, comparison and identification of latent images; classify and file fingerprint cards; conduct automated latent fingerprint images searches; operate a state-wide automated fingerprint identification system (Cal-ID)
• Testify in State and Federal courts on evidence-related issues as an expert witness.

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

Requirements

Knowledge of:

• Current methods of recovering fingerprints using powders, chemicals, and lighting
• Laws governing the collection of evidence and admissibility into a court of law
• Collection and examination techniques for a wide variety of evidence, including footwear, tire tracks, blood spatter, body fluids, gunshot residue, tool and bite impressions, trace evidence and crime scene management techniques

Ability to:

• Conduct thorough and complete crime scene investigations
• Document crime scenes through photography, sketches and diagrams and written reports
• Prepare written documentation of investigation and conclusions in a clear and concise manner
• Maintain workload statistical data
• Interact with superiors and other employees in a professional manner
• Testify as an expert witness in a court of law relating to evidence issues
• Interact with sworn and non-sworn personnel in a professional manner
• Learn new techniques and skills associated with evidence collection, examination and testimony
• Compare and identify impression evidence including shoe and tire tracks
• Compare and identify fingerprints
• Work long and unusual hours under a variety of conditions
• Assist in the identification of deceased persons
• Collect identification and property from deceased disaster victims
• Drive a vehicle with limited rear visibility

A combination of education, training, and experience resulting in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of qualifying education and experience includes:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a G.E.D. and three years of experience with a government-operated law enforcement agency performing crime scene investigations, photographic duties, collection of evidence, fingerprint recovery and fingerprint identification.

Licenses and Certificates:

• A valid driver’s license is required at the time of application. A valid California driver’s license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment.

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