Criminalist I, Digital Forensics (8259) - San Francisco Police Department

City and County of San Francisco•San Francisco, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Once trained and under general supervision, the Criminalist I in Digital Forensics performs scientific examination, analysis, and interpretation of physical and digital evidence in support of criminal investigations. The Criminalist I staff follow established protocols, document analytical results, maintain the integrity of evidence, and provide technical findings to investigators and the courts. Work requires adherence to professional forensic standards, chain‑of‑custody requirements, and quality assurance procedures.

Requirements

Possession of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in criminalistics, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related physical science field.
Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

Exposure to digital forensics tools or methods through coursework, internships, research, or certificate programs.
Familiarity with basic principles of digital evidence (file systems, data storage, metadata, timestamps, etc.).

Responsibilities

Collect, preserve, examine, process, and analyze digital evidence, including digital media, computers, mobile devices, storage media, cloud environments, and related forensic material.
Conduct forensic examinations and scientific testing using established laboratory procedures, instruments, specialized forensic software and hardware, and other approved digital forensic tools to recover, authenticate, interpret, and analyze evidence.
Maintain the integrity, security, and chain of custody of physical and digital evidence in accordance with forensic best practices, laboratory requirements, and departmental policies, including the transportation of evidence between authorized locations.
Interpret analytical results and prepare clear, concise, and technically accurate reports documenting examination methods, procedures, findings, and conclusions for investigative and judicial purposes.
Maintain complete and accurate case notes, laboratory records, examination documentation, and other records required for casework, quality assurance, and accreditation.
Assist with the development, validation, implementation, and periodic review of forensic methods, laboratory procedures, digital forensic processes, and related documentation.
Maintain, calibrate, and operate laboratory instruments, equipment, and forensic systems in accordance with manufacturer specifications, laboratory requirements, and established procedures.
Follow established quality assurance and quality control practices, safety requirements, evidence handling procedures, and forensic protocols.
Participate in proficiency testing, competency assessments, required training, continuing education, and literature reviews; remain current on scientific, technological, and forensic developments relevant to assigned disciplines.
Provide expert testimony in court and other legal proceedings regarding examinations performed, analytical methods used, findings, and conclusions reached.
The Criminalist I performs related duties as assigned.