Crime Scene Investigator

Job Summary

The purpose of this position is to perform a variety of highly skilled technical criminal identification tasks both in the field and in the laboratory. This includes developing, comparing and identifying latent fingerprints; searching for, collecting, preserving and identifying trace or other physical evidence found at Crime Scenes; photographing and measuring Crime Scenes; preparing comprehensive and technically correct reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court proceedings. Work may involve handling hazardous materials and sometimes being in hostile environments. Work requires being available various shifts, holidays and being on call-out status during off-duty hours.

Essential Job Functions

• Responds to Crime Scenes, gathers and processes physical evidence, photographs and sketches Crime Scene, directs other personnel at the scene, communicates extensively with uniformed and investigative officers to determine nature and extent of crime and shares information with investigators. Assures that evidence is collected and stored legally and safely. Writes comprehensive and technically correct reports regarding the processes used, evidence discovered and importance of the evidence to the investigation.

• Performs a variety of complex laboratory tests, analyses, classifications and comparisons of all types of physical evidence from Crime Scenes with emphasis on and expertise in the collection and comparison of latent fingerprints and use of the AFIS system.

• Performs NIBIN Acquisitions.

• Transports evidence by operating the Crime Scene vehicle; transporting evidence to crime labs; and picking up photos and negatives from photo labs.

• Testifies as an expert witness in court regarding the results of analysis and examination of physical evidence.

• Researches forensic science field for current materials regarding new techniques in locating, collecting and preserving all types of physical evidence.

Minimum Qualifications

• Work requires broad knowledge in a general professional or technical field. Knowledge is normally acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor's degree in a Science related field or Criminology.

• Six months experience in Crime Scene investigation.

• Valid Texas Class C Driver's License. Certification by the International Association for Identification is preferred.

• Advanced - Ability to read literature, books, reviews, scientific or technical journals, abstracts, financial reports, and/or legal documents. Ordinarily, such education is obtained at the college level or above. However, it may be obtained from experience and self-study.

• Intermediate - Ability to deal with system of real numbers; practical application of fractions, percentages, ratios/proportions and measurement; typically this level is obtained in high school up to college.

• Intermediate - Ability to write reports, prepare business letters, expositions, and summaries with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech. Ordinarily, such education is obtained in high school up to college. However, it may be obtained from experience and self-study.

• Receives General Direction: Within this position, the employee normally performs the job by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. The employee may choose the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance is reviewed periodically.

• Work requires the occasional direction of helpers, assistants, seasonal employees, interns, volunteers or temporary employees.

• Work requires analysis/judgement in accomplishing diversified duties. Regular exercise of independent thinking within limits of policies, standards and precedent.

• Work may require providing advice to others outside direct reporting relationships on specific problems or general policies. Contacts may require the consideration of different points of view to reach agreement. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas.