Crime Scene Specialist (COH)

Military, Veterans and Diverse Job Seekers•Hayward, CA

About The Position

DEFINITION Under direction, collect & process evidentiary items utilizing various chemical and physical development techniques to reveal friction ridge impressions. In addition, perform crime scene duties by identifying, collecting, preserving and processing physical evidence at crime scenes and in a laboratory; to prepare appropriate reports; assist in criminal investigations; testify in court; and assist in other duties as assigned. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is a journey-level professional position in which incumbents independently perform a variety of tasks, such as: utilize sound judgment in the application of correct sequential processing procedures; utilize scientific methods in the recovery of friction ridge impressions and other physical evidence; and proficiently mix various reagents in compliance with standard operating procedures. The Crime Scene Specialist is distinguished from the Crime Scene Technician in that an incumbent is required to perform complex evidence analysis and chemical processing whereas the Crime Scene Technician performs routine technical duties at the crime scene and/or laboratory. It is further distinguished from the Certified Latent Print Examiner in that the latter position performs the analysis, comparison, and evaluation of latent prints. SUPERVISION RECEIVED Receives direction from the Unit Administrator, sworn personnel, and management staff. SUPERVISION EXERCISED May provide functional and/or technical supervision, lead direction, and training to staff.

Requirements

Advanced methods and techniques of criminal identification and crime scene investigation.
Latent print techniques including development, collection and preservation.
Methods and techniques of various chemical, laser and physical processes and related safety requirements.
Evidentiary processing techniques for latent impression evidence recovery, collection, and preservation.
Principles and techniques of black and white and color photography 'including Lighting, Alternate Light Source, enlarging, and printing.
Digital photography equipment, as it relates to latent print photography.
Principles and practices of technical crime scene processing and crime scene reconstruction.
Report writing.
Rules of evidence of the methods and procedures of physical evidence collection, processing and preservation.
Locate, analyze and interpret data related to crime scene work.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Effectively handle conflict and uncertain situations.
Operate photography, laboratory and print apparatus and equipment.
Operate modern office equipment and related software applications.
Apply advanced evidence collection methods and carry out complex instructions regarding the appropriate collection of differing kinds of evidence.
Prepare physical evidence and exhibits for court.
Maintain confidentiality while processing evidence and cases.
Work both as part of a team, and equally well independently.
Three (3) years of experience equivalent to a Crime Scene Technician at the City of Hayward, combined with extensive ongoing training and development.
Possession of an Associates degree in criminalistics/forensic science, natural science (biology, biochemistry, or chemistry), or a related field.
Possession and maintenance of a valid Class C California Driver's License.
Possession of a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified Basic Field Evidence Technician certificate.
Not less than 18 years of age at time of appointment.

Nice To Haves

A Bachelors degree is highly desirable.
Crime Scene Certification by the International Association of Identification (IAI) is desirable.

Responsibilities

Determines techniques to be employed in testing and examination of physical evidence; develops and oversees procedures to ensure maintenance of chain of evidence within the parameters of state and federal laws, rules of evidence, court procedure, and case law.
Determines techniques to be employed in discovering patent or latent finger, palm and foot impressions to include basic and advanced chemical processing.
Utilizes various light sources to examine items of evidence for the detection of friction ridge impressions and digital capture equipment to record friction ridges developed.
Develops and implements procedures to ensure the appropriate collection and preservation of evidence, measurements and diagrams of crime scenes, and provide lead direction in the processing of major and large-scale crime scenes.
Photographs evidence and crime scenes using digital photographic and video equipment; directs the development and printing of photographs and films and the preparation of photographic displays; and examines photographic image to determine quality of print.
Prepares and maintains training manuals.
Oversees maintenance of unit's equipment, supplies, and maintenance of evidence van.
Performs quality checks of instruments and reagents.
Provides training to less experienced staff or law enforcement personnel in: laws and regulations affecting the processing of crime scenes; preparation of courtroom exhibits and procedures; and techniques and practices in crime scene processing and analysis.
Performs technical tasks in the collection and preservation of evidence at a crime scene such as lifting latent prints, collecting body fluids and clothing, dislodging bullets, and making plaster impressions.
Records elimination prints of victims and persons of interest; takes major case prints of known subjects using inked, powdered, and photographic techniques.
Testifies as an expert witness regarding laboratory examination of evidence, and crime scene processing.
Assists with developing and implementing appropriate safety procedures on the work site.
Packages evidence for storage; ensures proper procedures are followed.
Photographs a wide variety of situations to ensure proper documentation of the crime scene.
Prepares detailed reports and records of crime scenes and evidence collected; prepares diagrams.
Performs duties related to other areas of civilian police activities as necessary.
Reports to major crime scenes to collect evidence on a 24-hour basis as needed.
Performs related work as necessary.