Salary: $37,223 – $56,109

Final Filing Date: November 2, 2007

Duties: Summary: A Crime Scene Specialist is a veteran Crime Scene Investigator with extensive knowledge in crime scene processing and documentation. This position performs the duties of crime scene investigation while simultaneously supervising a small squad of Crime Scene Technicians in their assigned duties.

Classification Responsibilities: A Crime Scene Specialist is responsible for supervising a squad of Crime Scene Technicians involved in the examination and investigation of crime scene areas for the identification, collection, preservation, and evaluation of evidence at crime scene investigations in support of law enforcement activities. A Crime Scene Specialist works in the field monitoring subordinate’s work, participating in the processing of crime scenes, and coordinating the investigation of crime scenes with sworn supervisors in the field. An incumbent in this class also performs the following duties: documenting subordinates’ work performance and completing performance evaluations; photographing crime and accident scenes including burglaries, robberies, deaths, thefts, autopsies, and assault victims to record the appearance of evidence using highly-skilled photographic and evidence-gathering techniques; identifying, collecting, and securing physical evidence such as: blood, body fluids, hair and fibers, firearms, and narcotics for laboratory testing and use as evidence in criminal prosecutions; searching for and developing latent prints at crime scenes; photographing and fingerprinting suspects, victims (including deceased individuals), witnesses, and applicants; producing castings and comparative photographs of footprints, tire tracks, and other impressions; and testifying in court. A major aspect of the duties includes writing detailed reports and establishing and maintaining records to ensure proper chain of custody of physical evidence. An additional responsibility is training the Crime Scene Technicians and other department personnel in the forensic disciplines and functions of the Forensic Services Unit. This class is responsible for performing related duties as required.

Distinguishing Features: The Crime Scene Specialist is a civilian classification assigned to the Forensic Services Unit in the Durham Police Department. Work requires the exercise of initiative and independent judgment in implementing established work methods and procedures. Supervision is received from the Forensic Services Supervisor who reviews work through reports, meetings, observations of work in progress, and overall results achieved. The work requires exposure to dangerous chemicals and evidence that may be biohazardous and carcinogenic. Incumbents in this class may be required to use a respirator when these elements may be present. A Crime Scene Specialist requires shift work, working weekends and holidays, and is subject to priority call-out. A pager must be monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week unless on approved leave. This class is FLSA nonexempt.

Requirements: Education and Experience: Coursework in Photography, Criminalistics, and Physical Science (Biology/Biochemistry, Chemistry, or Forensic Science) is highly desirable. Preference will be given to applicants with a Bachelor Degree from an accredited college/university in Biology/Biochemistry, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminal Justice or a related field. Applicants must have at least three years of experience as a Crime Scene Technician (or equivalent). Some supervisory experience is preferred.

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• law enforcement activities and the organization of a Police Department;
• the functions of a police forensic laboratory;
• crime scene analysis;
• the laws and procedures of collecting physical evidence;
• photography and latent processing; and
• modern supervisory and evaluation methods and practice

Ability to:

• supervise a squad of Crime Scene Technicians;
• schedule, prioritize, and assign work on a daily basis;
• supervise, evaluate, and participate in the work of subordinate Crime Scene Technicians engaged in photography and processing of crime scenes for evidence;
• confer with and assist peace officers, attorneys, and federal authorities in the investigation and solution of crimes;
• compile statistical information and other reports;
• assist in the development of more efficient and effective methods and procedures for use in the Forensic Services Unit;
• read maps and learn the geography of the City;
• monitor identification equipment to maintain proper working order, provide maintenance as required;
• observe and recall details;
• perform photographic techniques and methods including the use of a variety of film, lighting, filtration, infrared, and ultraviolet techniques;
• work with powders and chemicals to process scenes for latent fingerprints and subsequent lifting/photographing;
• perform standard techniques for classification, development, transfer, and chemical processing of fingerprints;
• understand and follow the techniques for gathering and preserving physical evidence;
• understand a working knowledge of the rules of evidence and court methods and procedures;
• understand and follow the hazards and safety precautions related to chemicals and equipment used in processing evidence;
• perform gunshot residue testing and field drug testing;
• present accurate and professional testimony in court; and
• establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, associates, sworn personnel, supervisors, other identification laboratories or law enforcement agencies, City personnel, court officials and the general public.

How to apply:
Please see application instructions at the following web address: www.durhamnc.gov/employment/
Durham Police Forensics web site: www.durhampolice.com/units/id.cfm

Posted: October 22, 2007

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