Crime Scene Technician

Duties

• Photographs crime and accident scenes including burglaries, robberies, deaths, thefts, autopsies, and assault victims to record the appearance of evidence using highly-skilled photographic and evidence-gathering techniques;
• Identifies, collects, and secures physical evidence such as: blood, body fluids, hair and fibers, firearms, and narcotics for laboratory testing and use as evidence in criminal prosecutions;
• Searches for and develops fingerprints at crime scenes and participates in laboratory processing;
• Photographs and fingerprints suspects, victims, and witnesses;
• Produces castings of footprints, tire tracks, and other impressions;
• Prepares court presentations of evidence;
• Searches for, retrieves, and provides security information such as fingerprint cards, mug-shots, and case reports to law enforcement personnel and authorized agencies;
• Prepares and maintains records to ensure proper chain of custody of physical evidence;
• Performs related duties as assigned.

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

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in criminology, forensic science, or the life sciences; Bachelor’s degree preferred;
• A minimum of two (2) years experience in a law enforcement agency responsible for the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence and fingerprint examination;
• A forensic or scientific background is highly desirable;
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge Required by the Position

• Knowledge of functions of a police identification laboratory;
• Knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions related to chemicals and equipment used in processing evidence;
• Knowledge of basic computer operation;
• Knowledge of the techniques for gathering and preserving physical evidence;
• Knowledge of statistical record-keeping techniques;
• Knowledge of laws, rules and regulations related to assigned activities;
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures related to assigned activities;
• Skill in oral and written communication;
• Knowledge of supervisory practices and principles;
• Ability to read maps and learn the geography of the City;
• Ability to observe and recall details;
• Ability to learn photographic techniques and methods including the use of a variety of film, lighting, filtration, infrared, and ultraviolet techniques;
• Ability to learn standard techniques for classification, development, transfer, and chemical processing of fingerprints;
• Ability to assure proper police practices and procedures are followed;
• Ability to work confidentially with discretion;
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions;
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others;

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