Forensic Specialist I

Duties

Essential Functions

• Responds to crime scenes: photographs, collects, processes and stores evidence;
• Photograph persons, injuries, property, vehicles and latent fingerprints;
• Fingerprint individuals as needed;
• Mix chemicals for laboratory and crime scene use, as needed;
• Operates Lubbock Police Department computers, which includes Microsoft Office;
• Measure, sketch and /or diagram crime scenes;
• Able to develop latent fingerprint impressions;
• Ability to analyze and review unsolved cases to determine if current investigative techniques or procedures may be applied to evidence;
• Able to work under stress and use good judgment in emergency situations;
• Able to visually compare minute details during day and night time lighting;
• Deal with the general public courteously, firmly, and tactfully;
• Compare latent fingerprints to known inked or digitally captured fingerprints; make identifications and testify in court to the identification; trace fingerprints;
• Assist in training other personnel;
• Operates a variety of tools and equipment including alternate light source, camera and flash, super glue chamber, fingerprint magnifier, fingerprint processing equipment, fume hood and Integrated Biometric Workstation (AFIS, NGI, etc.);
• Independently perform a full range of police evidence investigative activities;
• Establish, maintain and foster positive working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

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

Requirements

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science, Criminology or applicable field and related experience is required.
• A Master’s Degree in Forensic Science, Criminology or applicable field is preferred.
• A candidate with a preferred Master’s Degree may substitute their degree for the two years of work experience in crime scene investigations or a related field.

Work Experience:

• Forensic Specialist I requires a two year probationary period including work experience in crime scene investigations or a related field.
• Must complete the time and experience requirement as well as pass a crime scene competency exam before a Forensic Specialist I can move up to a Forensic Specialist II.
• Must pass the Forensic Specialist I competency exam within 12 months of completing the work experience requirements.
• Valid Driver’s License and a good driving record
• Physical Exam Required
• Must be able to pass extensive background check
• This position is subject to twenty four (24) hour callout, variable hours and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Knowledge of:

• Law enforcement procedures, methods and techniques;
• Pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations;
• Basic principles of chemistry and biology;
• Basic photography skills, including the ability to work with digital photography software
• Basic knowledge of firearms and proper safety/handling procedures;
• Effective verbal and written communications skills necessary to prepare; accurate and grammatically correct reports in the English language;
• Filing and general office related procedures.

Ability to:

• Respond to crime scenes in a reasonable time in off duty call out situations
• Analyze problems and make sound recommendations;
• Speak and write effectively;
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with administrators, employees, and the public;
• Communicate effectively with others.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry up to 10 pounds;
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds;
• Occasionally climb stairs and other inclined surfaces;
• Occasionally bend and kneel during the shift;
• Occasionally climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl;
• Frequently stand and walk;
• Frequency handle objects of varying weight, size and shapes is essential;
• Frequently push and pull objects;
• Frequently rotate upper trunk to the left or right while sitting or standing;
• Frequently reach above, at or below shoulder height;
• Frequently kneel, crouch, stop, squat, crawl and/or twist.

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