Forensic Specialist

Duties

• This non-sworn position is responsible for performing a variety of tasks and procedures relating to crime scene investigation, documentation, analysis, and sorting of physical evidence for investigative and law enforcement purposes.
• Responds to crime scenes to document, collect, and preserve evidence or provides technical assistance in these activities.
• This includes taking photographs, processing and lifting latent prints, and other processing procedures.
• Performs latent comparisons and other duties as a latent print examiner.
• Prepares latent prints for Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) submission through an automated latent print system, determines and verifies any positive latent print identifications.
• Performs analysis of evidence collected at crime scenes and performs subsequent chemical processes for the detection of trace evidence or latent prints through a variety of processes, including laser application.
• Reports the result of all analysis of latent prints, photographs, and other evidence to the appropriate investigative personnel.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness in the areas of evidence collection, chemical processing, latent print comparisons, and photography.
• Performs duties as assigned.

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

Requirements

Training and Experience:

• Any combination equivalent to training and experience that could likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities would be qualifying.

A typical way to obtain knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in forensic science, criminal justice, biology, or chemistry, or related field AND one (1) year of experience as a Forensic Specialist Trainee or Forensic Specialist in law enforcement agency OR one year forensic casework in a) latent print comparisons and/or examinations, b) crime scene processing, and/or c) chemical processing of evidence for latent prints.

License and Certificates:

• Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license. International Association for Identification (IAI) certification as a Certified Crime Scene Investigator (CCSI) and/or a Certified Latent Print Examiner (CLPE) are desired but not required.

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