Crime Scene Investigator
About The Position
When a crime occurs, the truth is often found in the details. Prince William County Police Department is seeking a skilled Crime Scene Investigator to join a team where precision, curiosity, and dedication make a measurable difference. In this role, you serve as a critical link between the crime scene and the courtroom by methodically collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence. Prince William County is a diverse and dynamic community in the greater Washington D.C. region. Investigators in this role apply cutting-edge technology, continually explore emerging forensic techniques, and expand their expertise through professional development and collaboration with partner agencies. As a Crime Scene Investigator with Prince William County Police Department, you will be at the intersection of science, law, and public service. Working in the field, the lab, and the office, this role supports criminal investigations from the crime scene to the courtroom. At the scene, you will be responsible for thoroughly documenting and photographing crime scenes, collecting and preserving physical evidence, and processing for latent prints. You will apply technical expertise and careful methodology to ensure nothing of evidentiary value is missed. This role works alongside detectives to examine and document scenes with precision and professionalism, often under demanding circumstances. In the lab and office, you will process latent print evidence, author detailed and accurate reports, and prepare documentation meeting industry laboratory standards. When cases go to trial, you will serve as a professional witness, presenting your findings with clarity and proficiency. You will also utilize your subject matter expertise to provide training for other members of the department on a regular basis, from basic evidence collection to advanced techniques.
Requirements
- High school diploma or G.E.D.
- Five (5) years of related experience in fields such as Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
- Must perform work on crime scenes involving violence or death.
- Must respond to after-hour call-outs during nights and weekends.
- Must pass DMV record check.
- Must be able to obtain a VCIN Certification within six (6) months of employment.
- Must pass a polygraph examination, background investigation, credit check, and criminal record check.
- Must pass physical examination to include a drug screen.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s Degree in forensic science, forensic anthropology, biology, chemistry, biochemistry or physics.
- Experience providing courtroom testimony in criminal or civil cases relevant to processing a crime or specific items of evidence.
- Prior work experience in a law enforcement agency.
- Experience in crime scene documentation.
- Experience in evidence collection and preservation.
- Experience in technical writing for use in legal and/or scientific fields.
- Experience in an on-the-job trainer, instructor, or teaching role.
- International Association for Identification (IAI) certification.
- Experience working with ISO/IEC 17025.
Responsibilities
- Thoroughly documenting and photographing crime scenes
- Collecting and preserving physical evidence
- Processing crime scenes for latent prints
- Processing latent print evidence in the lab
- Authoring detailed and accurate reports
- Preparing documentation meeting industry laboratory standards
- Serving as a professional witness in court
- Providing training for other members of the department on evidence collection and advanced techniques
Benefits
- Full-time take-home vehicle
- Support for professional growth, including ongoing training and certification opportunities
- Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Hybrid pensions
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Ample personal and sick leave
- 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
- Paid Annual Leave
- Paid Personal Leave
- Paid Sick Leave
- Paid Holidays
- Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
- Optional Group Life Insurance
- An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Career Development Opportunities
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
