Extra Help Forensic Technician

Duties

• Assists in daily operation of the department's criminal laboratory.
• Assists in crime scene investigations and performing duties related to the department's forensic laboratory including fingerprints, photography, and presumptive testing for evidence of illicit drugs or bodily fluids.
• Assigns serial numbers to property; in responding to incidents and completing reports on investigations,
• Assists with processing crimes scenes by taking photographs, notes, and sketching of the scene.
• Documents, collects, and logs evidence and maintains chain of custody information
• Properly stores evidence in various facilities and arranges for evidence to be sent to criminalist laboratories.
• Performs some crime analyst functions.
• Conducts forensic interviews of victims and witnesses.
• Incumbents also may develop and print photos from jail bookings.
• May conduct serology testing including DNA and fingerprinting
• Maintain working relationships with Department of Justice (DOJ) and private labs.

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

Requirements

Training and Experience:
Any combination of training or experience that would provide the knowledge and skills to successfully perform the listed duties is qualifying. A typical way, but not required, to obtain the required knowledge and skills would be:

• One year of performing laboratory work or photography with demonstrated record keeping ability.
• Completion of specialized training courses in forensic investigation.

Special Requirements:

• Possession of, and ability to maintain, a valid driver's license.
• May be required to pass a pre-employment psychological exam.
• Must pass a pre-employment background screening including a psychological exam.

Knowledge of:

• Forensic laboratory duties, techniques, and procedures.
• Fingerprinting techniques under a variety of circumstances.
• Use and care of department equipment and firearms.
• Methods, practices, and terminology of financial and statistical record keeping.
• Good public relations techniques.
• Inventory procedures and file maintenance.
• Policies and procedures used in the operation "chain of evidence" requirements.
• Photography techniques and the operation of a digital camera.
• Hazardous materials investigation and methods of containment.
• Presumptive narcotic screening testing and analysis on found properties.
• Handwriting analysis techniques.
• Restoration techniques for the retrieval of altered serial numbers on found properties.
• Methods and protocols of crime scene processing
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.

Desired Skills:

• Provide security, custody and control of criminal evidence, coroner's property, and found property.
• Testify in court. Conduct forensic interviews and provide expert testimony in court. Read and understand codes, statutes, and information related to criminal evidence control, hazardous materials control, and arson investigations
• Gather and organize data and information
• Deal tactfully and courteously with the public and other staff when explaining the functions and policies of the county Sheriff/Coroner.

Supplemental Information
TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; climb stairs and ladders; walk on sloped, slippery, and/or uneven surfaces; ability to stoop, kneel, and bend over; sufficient manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; lift and move objects weighing up to 100 pounds with assistance; crawl through various areas on hands and knees; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; drive a motor vehicle over a variety of county roads and in a variety of weather conditions; verbal communication; use of radio equipment, fire suppression equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus, and office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed in office and outdoor environments; work is performed in a variety of temperatures and weather conditions and subject to duty anytime within a twenty-four hour period; exposure to smoke, hazardous materials, liquid chemicals, and blood borne pathogens; continuous contact with other staff and the public.

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