Latent Print Examiner I

Duties

Responsible for the examination and conclusion of any questioned finger/palm/footprint (unknown ridge detail) related to criminal investigations, agency documentation and/or court proceedings.

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

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND ABILITIES:

• At least 18 years of age
• Must be able to comprehend and communicate fluently in verbal and written English.
• U.S. Citizen or possess a current permanent resident card.
• Clean criminal history; any arrest history will be individually evaluated.
• No illegal drug usage within the past year. Other drug usage will be evaluated on a case by case basis.
• High school diploma or GED AND two (2) years related experience OR an Associate's degree (A.A. or A.S.) in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related science field.
• Related experience to include: latent print examiner/analyst/technician, ten-print examiner/technician, crime scene investigator/technician, forensic investigator/technologist, crime scene analyst, etc.
• Prior training in fingerprint classification/comparison and/or latent print analysis preferred.
• Pre-employment visual acuity assessment test required.
• If this posting indicates a degree is required, the following experience will apply in lieu of any degree as follows:
• Two (2) years of direct experience for an Associate Degree
• Four (4) years of direct experience for a Bachelor's Degree
• Six (6) years of direct experience for a Master's Degree
• Must have a valid Florida driver’s license. Must attend and successfully complete the agency sponsored Law Enforcement Vehicle Operations (LEVO) training if assignment includes driving agency vehicle. Use of agency vehicle would require appropriate driving history and passing agency biennial driver’s physical exam. National/Florida Crime Information Center (NCIC/FCIC) certification must be obtained within one (1) year from date of appointment and maintained as a condition of employment. FDLE Biometric Identification System (BIS) certification must be obtained within one (1) year from date of appointment and maintained as a condition of employment.
• Ability to receive and examine unknown ridge detail on evidence related to criminal investigations. Compares suitable ridge detail to known finger/palm/footprint records in accordance with established guidelines and best practices.
• Ability to use the Biometric Identification System (BIS) and Next Generation Identification (NGI) databases to develop potential subjects for further comparison.
• Ability to perform verifications (technical review) and administrative review of other examiners’ work. Stays abreast of trends, innovations, related research, and best practices in the field of friction ridge analysis. 75% of workload
• Ability to prepare reports, presentations of findings, methods, and techniques used to support conclusions; prepares court exhibits and/or presents findings. 18% of workload
• Ability to provide latent print technical assistance to Crime Scene Investigators and other agency employees. May assist in processing and/or preserving evidence for latent prints. 3% of workload
• Ability to perform administrative work to include receiving and handling evidence, maintaining a chain of custody, and maintaining equipment. Updates agency case management system and other databases as required. 4% of workload
• Must have working knowledge of federal, state, and county laws pertaining to the collection and use of physical evidence.
• Must have knowledge and skill in techniques and procedures used in crime scene investigations (e.g., evidence collection, storage, handling, analysis, and documentation to include the use of related chemicals and photography).
• Must be able to perform work under stressful conditions.
• Must be able to self-manage which includes adaptability, dependability, and initiative.
• Must have analytical skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Must possess proficient interpersonal skills and be able to establish and maintain positive, cooperative working relationships.
• Must have working knowledge of court proceedings and testimony as well as be able to testify as an expert court witness.
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality.
• Must successfully pass the Latent Print Examiner I Candidate Skills Test.
• Must be able to comprehend and communicate fluently in verbal and written English.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and/or governmental regulations.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to effectively present information to groups and respond to questions from managers, attorneys, investigators and/or detectives.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Must have basic computer skills to include word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications (e.g., Word; Excel, Access).
• Must have the ability to learn and use specialized applications.
• Must successfully complete the Latent Print Examiner Training Program within 18-24 months of employment.

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