Forensic Specialist

Duties

Examples of Duties

• Process and document crime scenes with or without the assistance of additional Forensic staff by taking all necessary photographs and/or video, searching for latent fingerprints, collecting items of evidence and preserving them for further analysis.
• Recognize evidence and have a working knowledge of the potential evidentiary value of tool marks, ballistics, soils, blood, DNA, poisons, fibers, document examinations, etc.
• Process evidence for latent fingerprints using such techniques as powders, chemicals, various light sources, and photography.
• Perform friction ridge examinations and run searches in the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS).
• Attend autopsies and photograph various phases for court purposes; collect post-mortem fingerprints.
• Maintain accurate documentation and generate reports of finding.
• Provide expert testimony in court.
• Required to be available for call outs on evenings and weekends.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

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

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• At least 21 years of age and a citizen of the United States of America or a lawful permanent resident, who can read and write the English language. Successful completion of a Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with major studies in forensic science, criminal justice, or other areas having close bearing on forensics. This degree requirement is not intended to disqualify friction ridge examiners and crime scene investigators who are already trained to competency.
• OPEN ENTRY: In addition, applicants must have an equivalent to at least two (2) years’ full-time Criminal Justice employment in friction ridge examination, forensic crime scene investigation, or a combination thereof.
• Vision correctable to 20/20 with normal color vision and hearing correctable to normal ranges. Must possess and retain a valid motor vehicle operator's license at date of hire and throughout employment.
• PROMOTIONAL: Current Spokane County Forensic Technicians who are in good standing and have passed a minimum of one (1) year probation will qualify.

Selection Factors

Knowledge of:

• Friction ridge examination and the ACE-V methodology
• Processing and documentation of latent fingerprints
• Crime scene processing and documentation to include photography

Skilled in:

• Exercising independent judgment and thinking on your feet
• Working as a team and performing duties in concert with other investigators

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Write clear, accurate, and concise reports
• Use digital imaging software such as Adobe Photoshop or other photographic reproduction systems
• Become Latent Print Certified through International Association for Identification
• Become Crime Scene Certified through International Association for Identification

Do you have the Education Required? See available on-line and campus-based degree programs now!