Forensic Specialist I/II - Latent Fingerprints

Duties

• Independently examine latent fingerprints lifted from crime scenes to determine whether the quality and minutia content are sufficient for comparison.
• Operate the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS); and scan prints and run the computer search.
• Obtain fingerprint cards for potential matches; and verify results.
• Testify in court as an expert witness on latent fingerprint identification.
• Maintain custody/security of a large volume of fingerprint cards and latent prints.
• File fingerprint cards and other records of suspects.
• Examine impression evidence for class and individual characteristics.
• Represent the Police Department in providing public presentations regarding the use of AFIS and the role of fingerprint classification in police investigations.
• Perform other job duties requiring skills, knowledge and physical requirements as demanded by those duties described or less. Individual assignments will be determined by the supervisor based on then current workloads and department needs.

This position will be filled as either a Forensic Specialist I or a Forensic Specialist II based on consideration of the selected candidate’s qualifications.

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

Requirements

Forensic Specialist I Minimum Requirements

• Requires any combination of education (above the high school level) and/or experience equivalent to five (5) years in fields utilizing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities and associated with such positions as fingerprint examiner or related position -OR- any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Must have, or obtain, a current and valid Virginia or North Carolina drivers license in accordance with Virginia or North Carolina DMV drivers license eligibility requirements.

Forensic Specialist II Minimum Requirements

• Requires any combination of education (above the high school level) and/or experience equivalent to six (6) years in fields utilizing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities; -OR- any equivalent combination of experience and training.
• Must have a current and valid driver’s license.

Special Requirements

• Must be able to work rotating shifts (days/evenings/midnights) including weekends and holidays and be available to work overtime when required to meet operational needs.
• This position may require that incumbents wear and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment such as, but not limited to, steel toed shoes, safety glasses, gloves, or other designated safety attire and equipment in designated areas of risk.
• Specific requirements will be determined and communicated by the employees supervisor based on position assigned.
• Must successfully complete a police background investigation, including polygraph examination.

Additional Requirements

• DMV Transcript: Required
• CDL: Not Required
• DOT History: Not Required
• CPS Check: Not Required
• Physical: Not Required
• Respirator: Not Required
• Polygraph Review: Required
• Psychological Screening: Not Required

Preferences

• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing
• Detail oriented with strong organizational/time management skills
• International Association for Identification (IAI) certification
• Experience testifying in court
• Experience using image enhancement software (ex. PhotoShop, CSIPix, etc.)
• 2 years experience as a latent finger print examiner
• Specialized forensic training in LPE techniques
• Familiarity with utilization of fingerprint database(s)
• College coursework in forensic science

Forensic Specialist I is the journey level position and will only be used if the successful candidate possesses at least two years of experience as a latent fingerprint examiner. Applicants selected for the Forensic Specialist I position will be eligible for career progression to the Forensic Specialist II position classification (10% pay increase) upon demonstrating competency and proficiency, being recognized by the court as an expert witness and obtaining IAI certification.

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