Criminalist I - Latent Prints

State of South Carolina • Richland County, SC

5d

About The Position

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is a premier statewide law enforcement agency dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of South Carolina. With a proud history rooted in integrity, professionalism, and public service, SLED is committed to providing high-quality investigative, intelligence, and forensic services to support law enforcement agencies across the state. At SLED, we value dedication, ethical conduct, accountability, and a strong commitment to justice. Our agency plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and supporting criminal justice efforts at the local, state, and federal levels. From advanced forensic science to homeland security, criminal investigations, and criminal justice information systems, SLED's diverse responsibilities make it one of the most dynamic law enforcement agencies in the state. We foster a professional work environment where teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement are fundamental. Our employees are held to the highest standards and are given opportunities to grow within a mission-driven organization that makes a meaningful difference in South Carolina communities.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with completed science courses.
• Must successfully complete a prescribed training course at the SC Criminal Justice Academy and obtain certification as a Class III (Basic) Law Enforcement Officer.
• Must be able to complete the Latent Print Department training program.
• Must be able to effectively use computers to complete and maintain case records.
• Must be able to speak effectively in a public setting, such as judicial proceedings.
• Position is subject to on-call status and may be called in after hours on a limited basis to work priority cases.
• Position is subject to overnight travel.
• Must be able to lift items up to 25 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience conducting forensic photography and footwear/tire tread examination is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide the State of South Carolina with expertise in forensic photography/digital image enhancement and footwear/tire tread examination.
• Perform tasks associated with being a sworn law enforcement officer in the State of South Carolina.
• Achieve competency and maintain proficiency in evidential photography and computer imaging.
• Photograph impression evidence and conduct image enhancements to assist in impression evidence examination.
• Prepare photographs and exhibits for court presentations.
• Provide expert testimony in judicial proceedings.
• Provide specialized training in forensic photography and digital image enhancement.
• Achieve competency and maintain proficiency in processing evidence for the presence of footwear/tire tread impressions and conducting footwear/tire tread examinations.
• Process evidence for the presence of footwear/tire tread impressions, conduct footwear/tire tread examinations, issue reports, and provide expert testimony in judicial proceedings.
• Provide specialized training in footwear/tire tread examination.
• Maintain assigned equipment and studio equipment in good, working condition.
• Maintain a neat and orderly workspace.
• Successfully complete additional assignments and/or duties as assigned by the department supervisor in a timely manner.
• Maintain law enforcement certification and perform tasks associated with being a sworn law enforcement officer in the state of South Carolina and a special agent with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division with statewide authority.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs

What This Job Offers

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