Collision Reconstructionist

Arizona Department of Public Safety • Phoenix, AZ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is seeking an experienced Collision Reconstructionist to conduct specialized collision investigations and reconstructions under general supervision. This is a non-sworn, unarmed position with no arrest authority. The position conducts at-scene and follow-up investigations, analyzes collision causes and contributing factors, and prepares detailed reports and provides court testimony. It also provides investigative and expert support to Department employees and attorneys representing the Department. Other related duties may be assigned. This is an uncovered position, and the incumbent serves at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Public Safety. The application period may close without notice, and the selected candidate must successfully complete a background investigation.

Requirements

• Ten years of experience as a police officer, including at least five years as a technical collision investigator or collision reconstructionist; OR ten years of experience as an automotive or insurance industry investigator, including at least five years as a technical collision investigator or collision reconstructionist; OR three years of experience as a civilian collision reconstructionist and a bachelor's degree in mathematics, physics, engineering, or another physical science-based field.
• Ability to work irregular hours and/or respond to emergency callouts on a 24-hour basis.
• Ability to lift objects weighing up to 75 pounds.
• Physical ability to inspect vehicles by going inside, over, and beneath them as required.
• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
• Ability to travel extensively throughout the State.
• Must successfully complete a background investigation.
• Knowledge of business English, spelling, grammar, and punctuation sufficient to produce and proofread complex written documents.
• Knowledge of records management systems, including automated and manual files.
• Knowledge of physics and engineering principles related to motion, force, energy, and momentum for analyzing collision dynamics.
• Knowledge of state and federal traffic laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of scene analysis, evidence collection, and documentation.
• Knowledge of downloading and interpreting Event Data Recorder information.
• Knowledge of vehicle, environment, and human analysis in pre-impact, impact, and post-impact phases.
• Knowledge of total stations, unmanned aerial systems, and 3D scanners, including their use and data interpretation.
• Knowledge of computer-aided diagramming, animation, and simulation software.
• Knowledge of human behavior, perception-reaction times, visibility, and driver decision-making.
• Knowledge of collision and crime scene documentation, processing, and evidence collection.
• Knowledge of Traffic Incident Management system principles.
• Skill in using computer-aided diagramming software and measuring instruments such as 3D scanners, unmanned aerial systems, and total stations.
• General skill in using computer hardware and software programs.
• Skill in providing expert court testimony and presenting complex information to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people contacted during assignments.
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing in a logical and understandable format, understand written and verbal instructions, and complete assigned tasks accurately.
• Ability to safeguard confidential or sensitive information using good judgment.
• Ability to read, comprehend, and interpret written materials of simple to moderate complexity.
• Ability to work with interruptions, adapt to changing priorities, organize and prioritize multiple tasks, and meet stringent deadlines.
• Ability to evaluate information, make decisions, and take appropriate action.

Responsibilities

• Analyze physical evidence from collision scenes, including tire friction marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
• Collect, review, and analyze witness statements and other testimonial evidence.
• Inspect and measure scenes and obtain crash data using photographs, videos, notes, 3D scanners, total stations, Event Data Recorder technology, or other useful means.
• Use computer simulations and animations to model collision scenarios and dynamics.
• Prepare detailed reports outlining findings and conclusions.
• Present findings as an expert witness in interviews, depositions, and court.
• Collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams to support investigations.
• Examine vehicle components to identify mechanical failures or defects.
• Determine vehicle speeds and dynamics based on evidence.
• Reconstruct human occupant kinematics and the sequence of collision events.
• Conduct field investigations and site visits to gather additional data.
• Use photogrammetry and other technologies to create accurate representations of collision scenes.
• Evaluate human factors, including driver behavior and reaction times, that may have influenced collisions.
• Stay current with advances in collision reconstruction techniques and technology.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior