Latent Print Examiner

Duties

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Evaluates the quality of latent prints submitted and developed to determine if they are of sufficient value for comparison
• Analyzes diverse items submitted by various criminal justice agencies and other state agencies for the detection, preservation and identification of latent prints
• Utilizes highly technical processes, both chemical and mechanical for detecting invisible impressions on widely varied surfaces
• Compares fragmentary prints with known prints and makes the critical determination of whether prints are from the same individual
• Examines deceased hands, fingers and pieces of skin for the purpose of establishing the positive identification of the deceased person
• Prepares reports on results of examinations conducted
• Presents expert testimony in criminal courts as to the results of latent print comparisons; qualifies each time in court as an expert witness, providing the courts with an opinion based on observable data and the member's proven forensic judgment
• Secures the credibility of testimony under cross examination
• Prepares court exhibits and preserves by photographic processes material potentially significant for analysis and court preparation at the direction of the courts
• Instructs criminal justice interns in the collection and preservation of latent fingerprints, physical evidence, and in the recording of fingerprints and footprints
• Regular and reliable attendance is required as an essential function of the position
• This position may be considered essential and, in the event of an emergency or natural disaster, may be required to report to work
• Participates in Sheriff’s Office recruitment and community relations activities as directed
• This list is not intended to be all-inclusive and you may not be responsible for every item listed. The employer reserves the right to assign additional functions and responsibilities as necessary

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, Computer Forensics or Forensic Psychology

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree with at least 12 credit hours in physical, biological, fingerprint science or forensic science coursework
• One (1) year experience as a Latent Print Examiner conducting independent casework
• Latent Print Certification with the International Association for Identification (IAI) is preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience
• A written comprehensive practical skills evaluation, to include comparison and identification of latent prints to known prints will be administered
• Must possess a valid Florida driver’s license

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of procedures and techniques used in latent print examination and comparison
• Ability to recognize matching and non-matching patterns and prints during manual comparison using fingerprint magnifiers and on-screen digital comparisons
• Knowledge of courtroom procedures and legal requirements involving the use of fingerprints as evidence and as testifying as an expert witness
• Ability to learn the intricate detail of minutiae plotting on the latent entry terminal of the AFIS computer
• Ability to learn how to import, manage, and conduct examinations in the digital evidence management system
• Ability to lift latent prints from a variety of surfaces using a variety of professional techniques
• Ability to concisely and accurately identify and compare prints, including old or fragmented prints
• Ability to maintain a professional bearing and attitude at all times while on the job with supervisors, public, and peers
• Time management skills to efficiently organize, prioritize, schedule and manage daily work activities, tasks, and special assignments
• Independently completes work, with the member being able to successfully finish work in a timely manner
• Ability to operate equipment and instruments utilized in meeting job requirements and operational responsibilities
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• Ability to perform all functions of the job classification without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace

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