Civilian Police Investigator

Duties

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Crime Scene Technician & Evidence Specialist - Perform comprehensive crime scene documentation, management, and evidence collection, including photography, preservation, and handling of physical evidence such as latent prints, impression evidence, firearms, and biological materials. Maintain professional standards in crime scene procedures while supporting broader investigative tasks and provide courtroom testimony as required.
• ForensicScene Documentation - Perform 3D laser scanning of high-profile crime scenes and develop accurate diagrams and digital reconstructions to support prosecution. Provide courtroom testimony regarding scanning procedures, scene documentation, and reconstruction methods for major investigations, including homicides.
• Digital Forensics - Conduct forensic examinations of mobile devices and digital media using department-approved forensic software. Identify, preserve, and organize digital evidence for investigative review and court proceedings. Prepare documentation, assist with search warrant and court order preparation, and provide courtroom testimony regarding forensic methods and evidence handling.
• Ballistic Evidence Analysis (NIBIN)- Process and enter ballistic evidence into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). Analyze correlation results and provide investigative leads to detectives by identifying links between firearm-related crimes across jurisdictions.
• Sex Offender Registry Compliance - Conduct field verifications and assessments of registered sex offenders within the jurisdiction, ensuring compliance with legal requirements. Collaborate with sworn officers to complete home visits and maintain accurate records, supporting law enforcement efforts to monitor and manage offender activity.
• Missing Persons Case Support - Review and assess missing persons cases, identifying leads and determining investigative priorities. Provide support for follow-up actions to ensure thorough case management and effective resolution.
• Provide technical and analytical support to assist sworn officers and/or detectives to gather evidence to support criminal investigations in accordance with national guidelines.
• Prepare investigative reports and provide courtroom testimony regarding forensic processes, evidence handling, and investigative findings.
• At the direction of a Police CID Sergeant, conducts follow-up phone calls, emails, and in-person contacts with members of the public, law enforcement, and various investigative partners.
• Any other duties commensurate with the role and grade may be reasonably requested by management.

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

Requirements

Minimum and Preferred Entrance Qualifications
Education and Experience

• Experience with researching and fielding new and innovative technology.
• Three (3) years of experience in criminal investigations, forensic analysis, digital forensics, crime scene processing, intelligence analysis, or related investigative work. Experience in a law enforcement environment is preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and job-related experience may substitute for the educational requirements on a year-for-year basis.
• Required to pass PD background screening.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience conducting digital forensic examinations of electronic devices
• Familiarity with ballistic imaging systems (NIBIN)
• Experience using 3D laser scanning or scene reconstruction software
• Prior experience working in a law enforcement investigative unit

Competencies for Successful Performance of Job Duties
Knowledge of:

• Tools and services used in securing and evaluating data.
• Maintaining a computerized data management system.
• Investigative and interview techniques.

Skill in:

• Conducting several investigations simultaneously to ensure compliance with due dates.
• Gathering and analyzing sensitive data.
• Performing a multitude of tasks simultaneously or in logical and efficient succession.
• Skill in using specialized software relating to digital media for analysis and reporting.
• Highly effective interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and influencing skills, together with a strong customer service orientation.

Ability to:

• Organize and present facts clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, to handle confidential work with tact and discretion.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Operate a Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) and a variety of standard office equipment including computer, telephone, calculator, copy and fax machines requiring continuous and repetitive arm, hand, and eye movement.
• Visual and muscular dexterity to operate a motor vehicle, computer equipment, and two-way radio maintaining a constant vigilance to the surrounding area.
• Utilize two-way radio to hear and respond to radio communications, voice instructions, and/or commands under a variety of working situations.
• Work overtime as required.
• Work a variety of scheduled shifts.

Other Job Requirements

• Obtain and maintain an Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) Terminal Operator Certification within the first six (6) months.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver’s license or obtain one within thirty(30) days of hire, unless a qualifying military exception applies. Documentation for any military-related exception must be submitted to Human Resources.
• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening in accordance with the City’s Drug and Alcohol Policy and applicable law.
• Drug Screening includes testing for THC.

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