Forensic Services Specialist

City of Galveston•Galveston, TX

13h

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Forensic Services Specialist performs specialized forensic and evidence-related duties in support of criminal investigations. This position is responsible for crime scene response, documentation, collection, processing, transportation, storage, and control of physical evidence and property in the custody of the department. The position requires the application of forensic principles, strict adherence to chain-of-custody requirements, technical recordkeeping, and independent judgment to ensure the integrity of evidence from collection through courtroom presentation. The Forensic Services Specialist provides courtroom testimony, consults with the District Attorney’s Office, coordinates laboratory submissions, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and departmental laws, policies, and procedures.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent
Two (2) years of prior law enforcement or forensic-related experience involving criminal investigations and evidence handling preferred; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge of City organization, operations, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of Law enforcement operations and criminal justice processes.
Knowledge of Legal terminology and rules of evidence.
Knowledge of Principles and practices of crime scene investigation and evidence handling.
Knowledge of Records retention principles and practices.
Knowledge of Customer service principles and practices.
Knowledge of City geography.
Knowledge of Business and personal computers and spreadsheet/database applications.
Skill in Crime scene documentation and forensic evidence handling.
Skill in Problem-solving and independent decision-making.
Skill in Effective oral and written communication.
Skill in Preparing reports, presentations, and exhibits using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).
Skill in Multitasking, time management, and prioritization.
Skill in Organizing, maintaining, and auditing records.
Skill in Handling sensitive situations with diplomacy, fairness, firmness, and sound judgment.
Skill in Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships across all levels of the City.
Possession of a valid Texas Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field is preferred.
Crime Scene Technician Certification preferred, or ability to obtain within one (1) year of hire.

Responsibilities

Respond to criminal offenses requiring forensic processing and evidence collection.
Secure, document, and thoroughly process crime scenes using accepted forensic methods.
Photograph, sketch, measure, and document crime scenes and evidence.
Collect, package, label, preserve, transport, and store physical evidence in accordance with established protocols.
Prepare supplemental reports detailing forensic actions taken in each case.
Complete submission documentation and hand-deliver DNA, latent print, and other evidence to appropriate laboratories for analysis.
Attend autopsies as required to assist with evidence collection and documentation.
Receive, document, store, and ensure proper custody and control of physical evidence and property.
Maintain manual and computerized records including evidence custody documents, chain-of-custody records, property receipts, property control files, and related reports.
Maintain evidence/property rooms and ensure compliance with security, safety, and audit requirements.
Coordinate the release and return of evidence and property to rightful owners when authorized.
Prepare unreturnable items for disposal in accordance with departmental policies, court orders, federal laws, and state statutes.
Arrange for or transport evidence to state and other approved laboratories for analysis.
Prepare evidence and forensic exhibits for court presentations.
Provide courtroom testimony under subpoena regarding evidence handling, forensic processing, and chain of custody.
Consult with the District Attorney’s Office regarding cases, evidence, and testimony.
Operate a wide variety of computer hardware and software systems, including Records Management Systems (RMS).
Perform Crime Information Bureau (CIB) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) transactions as required and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Collect, classify, analyze, and format data and information to support investigations and evidence management.
Exercise responsibility for preventing loss and ensuring accountability of high-value evidence and departmental assets.
Apply basic mathematical principles including ratios, rates, and percentages when evaluating data and inventories.
Support positive relationships between the City and the public through courteous, professional, and cooperative interactions.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive, restricted, and work-related information.
Perform related duties as required or assigned.
May be required to work during emergencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the public and continuity of vital services.