Forensic Specialist I/II

Duties

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Examines crime scenes for evidence such as DNA, trace evidence, digital evidence, and weapons.
• Interprets the meaning of evidence, calculates trajectories, prepares crime scene diagrams, records measurements, and interprets blood spatters.
• Prepares written reports and records of duties performed during cases; records, analyzes, and preserves crime scene evidence; documents crime scenes using various methods such as sketching, photography, and laser scanning; maintains logs of sites attended.
• Photographs crime scenes and a variety of evidence, such as property damage, victims, shoeprints, autopsies, and stolen property at various investigation sites, including felonies, traffic accidents, crime labs, and potential arson sites.
• Processes crime scenes for latent fingerprints using appropriate methods; fingerprints suspects and other individuals; performs fingerprint analysis to compare fingerprint records to latent fingerprints from crime scenes; searches California Department of Justice (CDOJ) computer system or FBI Next Generation Identification (NGI) to identify unknown latent prints.
• Collects, receives, and stores evidence from crime scenes, victims, and other agencies; maintains precise records of property transactions.
• Prepares crime scene sketches and enlargements for detective analysis and court presentations using specialized equipment, such as a Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) or 3D laser scanners.
• Performs digital forensic evidence extractions and analyses on cell phones, tablets, and other media devices; analyzes and maps call detail records (CDRs) from cell phone providers.
• Operates and maintains equipment for lab, and field use; conducts serial number restorations; conducts aerial crime scene photography and assists with surveillance and search and rescue missions.
• Appears in court as an expert in fingerprint testimony, photography, digital examinations, and to document the chain of custody and correct storage of evidence; books and processes evidence for later court presentation.
• Develops and maintains ongoing training for Deputy Sheriffs regarding basic evidence collection and crime scene documentation.
• Consults with deputies, detectives, and investigators regarding evidence to be submitted to the CDOJ Bureau of Forensic Services or private labs for analyses.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

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

Requirements

Knowledge of:

• Law enforcement organization, activities, terminology, and regulations.
• Procedures and techniques of evidence collection and processing, including maintenance of the chain of evidence.
• Advanced fingerprint collection, classification, and comparison techniques.
• Safe work methods and safety regulations pertaining to the work.
• Principles of digital video and photographic equipment usage and document processing.
• Applicable local, state, and federal laws and ordinances related to the collection, preservation, and transportation of evidence.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Independently examine, collect, and preserve crime scene evidence in accordance with established procedures.
• Collect latent fingerprints and match to computer or inked print files.
• Determine the appropriate analytical tests needed for the evaluation of evidence.
• Coordinate activities with a variety of personnel and agencies.
• Operate a DSLR camera and associated equipment and software.
• Prepare clear and concise reports, documentation, and other written material.
• Safely handle dangerous substances and firearms.
• Exercise independent judgment and decision making in daily work activities.
• Communicate effectively with a variety of individuals from a variety of cultures and backgrounds in situations which require a high degree of sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

• Equivalent to an associate degree in forensic science or a related field. A bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field is desirable.
and
• Level I: Either one (1) year of experience in the handling and storage of evidence in a law enforcement setting or one (1) year in sworn law enforcement, including the performance of investigative duties.
• Level II: Two (2) years of experience equivalent to Forensic Specialist I with the County of Humboldt. Licenses and Certifications:
• Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
• Specialized licenses and certificates may be required within one year of hire (e.g., Small Unmanned Aircraft System license, fingerprint certifications, and digital forensic examination certifications).

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