Job Class Specifications for: PHOTOGRAPHER, SENIOR

Class Specification Schematic Number: 7051505

Class Summary:

Positions in this class perform the more technically advanced, complex or sensitive forms of photography, scenes or simulations of scenes, physical evidence and for other legal purposes; or may provide lead worker duties to subordinate staff.

Distinguishing Characteristics of the Class:

This is the advanced level in the Photographer series. Positions in this class, under general supervision, perform all aspects of general photography; plan and produce an aesthetic photograph that fulfil the objective for which it was created; and prepare exhibits for court that require sufficient knowledge and understanding of the subject-matter such as of latent blood and grease prints, foot, tire and tool impressions, arson and aerial photographs, accident investigation simulations and of excavation sites. The work requires a comprehensive knowledge of methods, materials and equipment used in all aspects of photography, and ingenuity in placing cameras and lighting; and an understanding of how the photograph will be used and the kind of information it is intended to convey in order to achieve the desired result or information. The ability to use highly specialized cameras and related equipment peculiar to subject-matter is also required. Guidelines are available in technical and reference manuals and in departmental and City policies and procedures. Incumbents in the class use judgement in varying processes, in adapting equipment and in going beyond the established process and procedures to produce the effect that will further the objective that the photograph is designed to convey. This class is distinguished from the Photographer and the Supervisor in that the Senior positions perform the more technical advanced, complex or sensitive forms of photography requiring specialized knowledge of cameras and related equipment; or may provide lead worker duties. Contact is primarily with intra-departmental and inter-departmental personnel and with law enforcement agencies for the purpose of coordinating, providing and exchanging of information.

Examples of Work:

• Performs the advanced, complex or sensitive forms of photography using specialized cameras and related equipment to produce aesthetic photographs that depict desired information, such as of accident and crime scenes or simulations of scenes, physical evidence and of excavation sites. such as of accident and crime.
• Selects cameras, equipment and lighting; and takes still and motion pictures on black and white or color film, on location, in the field, or in a laboratory.
• Reproduces prints and repairs mug photographs; and maintain photographs for department as required.
• Develops and prints color and black and white photographs; and mixes, uses, monitors and properly disposes of chemicals.
• Operates and maintains photographic equipment.
• Trains personnel on the proper procedures, equipment selection and types of lighting to employ for specific applications.
• Provides expert witness testimony in court; and assists in setting up exhibits.
• May provide supervisory duties such as hiring, training, assigning and evaluating the work of subordinate staff.
• Performs other related duties of a comparable level/type as assigned.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Required to stand, walk or bend for extended periods of time. Required to lift objects generally weighing less than 50 lbs. Required work with potentially toxic or hazardous chemicals; and in close proximity to high voltage. Required to work outdoors in all types of weather.

Requires three years journey level experience in professional technical photography and photographic laboratory experience or an Associate's degree in Technical Photography, Commercial Photography or comparable education (or a combination of education and/or training and/or experience which provides and equivalent background required to perform the work of the class).

Current Washington State driver's license. May be required to be on call 24 hours/day to respond to emergency/forensic situations

Comments:

This description was prepared to indicate the kinds of activities and levels of work difficulty required of positions in this class. It is not intended as a complete list of specific duties and responsibilities.

Class History:

Class adopted January 2, 1991.

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