Criminalist I - Denver Police Department Crime Lab

City and County of Denver • Denver, CO

3d • $30 - $46

About The Position

The Denver Crime Laboratory supports the Denver Police Department in solving crime. The Forensics and Evidence Division employs trained professionals who assist with criminal investigations. The Denver Police Crime Scene Unit investigates cases throughout the City and County of Denver and responds to more than 4,000 crime scenes each year. This is a seniority-based night-shift position requiring availability to work weekends, holidays, and on-call.

The Criminalist I identifies, collects, preserves, and packages biological, friction ridge, impression, and other physical evidence; documents crime scenes with forensic techniques and technologies; prepares technical reports; maintains evidence chain of custody; and provides courtroom testimony about crime scene processing and evidence handling. The role also assists with training Criminalist I and Crime Scene Technician personnel, troubleshoots operational issues, and follows ISO/IEC 17025 standards, departmental SOPs, and quality assurance manual guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree, with the stated education and experience equivalency provisions.
• One year of experience in crime scene processing, digital multimedia editing and video enhancement, and/or an internship with a forensic laboratory or criminal justice organization.
• Valid driver's license at the time of application.
• Ability to obtain IAI Certified Crime Scene Investigator, Level 1 certification within two years of employment.
• Ability to complete LEVA Levels 1–4 training within four years of employment.
• Complete the Denver Police Forensics & Evidence Division Form for Consent for Collection of a DNA Sample at the time of hire.
• Keep licenses and certifications current as a condition of employment.
• Successfully complete a polygraph examination, drug test, physical/medical evaluation, vision examination, and criminal background check as conditions of employment.
• Availability to work night shifts, weekends, holidays, and on-call.
• At least one year of experience in a similar work environment is sought in the ideal candidate, preferably within a large agency.
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic operational environment, including adapting to changing operational needs and priorities.
• Ability to manage difficult crime scenes and challenging situations.
• Strong team-oriented mindset and commitment to excellent customer service.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a similar work environment, preferably within a large agency.

Responsibilities

• Identify, collect, preserve, and package biological, friction ridge, impression, and other physical evidence according to established standards and SOPs.
• Document crime scenes using digital photography, digital videography, laser scanning, and diagramming software.
• Prepare technical reports in accordance with departmental requirements.
• Maintain proper chain of custody and package evidence to preserve its integrity and prevent contamination.
• Provide courtroom testimony regarding crime scene processing and evidence handling.
• Assist with training Criminalist I and Crime Scene Technician personnel.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues encountered during daily operations.
• Perform duties in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards, SOPs, and quality assurance manual guidelines.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisors.

What This Job Offers

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