Location : Fairfax, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 24-13
Department: Police Administration
Division: Field Operations
Opening Date: 01/25/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Applications are now being accepted for the position of Crime Scene Detective in the City of Fairfax Police Department-at the rank of Master Police Officer. Applicants who are currently Virginia Certified Police Officers with a minimum of 20 years of law enforcement experience, with a minimum of 8 years of Crime Scene investigative experience, retired or eligible to retire from a law enforcement agency, in good standing. Highly Qualified candidate(s) will be given an oral interview; conditional job offer; background investigation; polygraph examination; physical examination and a psychological examination. Candidates will be required to provide samples of Crime Scene casework during the oral interview. A polygraph examination and psychological test will generally not be required if there is no break in service from previous law enforcement employment. If there is a break in service, a modified polygraph examination and psychological examination may be required. After successful completion of the process, a final interview with the Chief of Police will be scheduled.
As an equal opportunity employer and in order to respond to the needs of a diverse community, minorities and women are encouraged to submit applications. Spanish speaking individuals are encouraged to apply.
Examples Of Duties
Under the supervision of the Criminal Investigations Lieutenant and Sergeant, conducts thorough and systematic Crime Scene investigations, to identify, collect, and preserve physical evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, trace materials, and ballistic evidence; documents Crime Scenes through photography, sketching, and written reports; utilizes various techniques and tools to process Crime Scenes, including alternate light sources, lifting devices, and casting materials; works closely with detectives and prosecutors and testifies in court.
The Crime Scene Detective will analyze the evidence collected to reconstruct the Crime Scene; reviews and secures video evidence (i.e. BWC, Flock, City cameras, etc.); develop theories about what happened based on the evidence; communicates with assigned officers and detectives; coordinates evidence processing at the State Lab; documents findings in supplement case reports; provides expert testimony in court when applicable.
Additional duties include coordinating the supplemental Crime Scene program; conducting roll call trainings to maintain consistent application of scene processing; communicating often with peers in local jurisdictions; stays up to date with new techniques and technologies in forensic science through continuing education.
The Crime Scene Detective will utilize a specially designed police vehicle to respond to major crimes as well as with Patrol officers to cases where evidence can be collected. The Crime Scene Detective is expected to work efficiently with little supervision. Hours of operation are 8-9 hours a day on weekdays; however, call out may be necessary to include nights and weekends. Detectives often have to be flexible with their schedule and remain committed to serving the citizens of the City of Fairfax.
Qualifications
U.S. Citizen
Virginia Certified Police Officer who is a graduate of the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy, Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy, or Prince William County Criminal Justice Academy.
20 or more years of local police experience, 8 years of Crime Scene investigative experience, currently certified or retired in good standing.
High School graduate or equivalent, possession of a valid operator's license.
Eyesight must meet a minimum of 20/20 binocular vision. Corrective glasses may be worn. Uncorrected vision with glasses must be no worse than 20/100 in either eye, corrective soft contact.
No felony convictions. Must be of good character and reputation, have a favorable credit record, possess the ability to speak clearly, hear, analyze, understand, and follow complex oral and written instructions.
Current Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Certified Police Officer.
Additional Desirable Qualification:
Graduate of the Virginia Forensic Science Academy.
Ability to communicate effectively in a second language.
College coursework or a degree in criminal justice or related field.
Special Certifications and Licenses:
Forensic Photography
Fingerprint Analysis and Processing
DNA Collection and Analysis
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
Ballistics and Firearm Analysis
Trace Evidence Analysis
Digital Forensics
Death Investigation
Hazardous Materials Handling
Crime Scene Reconstruction