Crime Scene Investigator

Duties and Requirements Click to read more

Duties

Essential Job Duties

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Conduct crime scene investigations.
• Photograph and video record crime scenes and vehicle collision scenes.
• Collect and preserve physical evidence at crime scenes. Processes evidence once taken back to lab.
• Process, and file fingerprints. Search fingerprint files. Utilize fingerprint powders and chemical treatments during the processing of evidence for latent prints.
• Maintain digital Master image and back up image files and logs.
• Attend autopsies to observe, photograph and collect evidence.
• Photograph and fingerprint prisoners.
• Prepare and maintain related records and reports.
• Testify in depositions, hearings and trials.
• Test and maintain equipment to ensure it is working properly.
• Participate in training. May also conduct training.
• Perform all functions and responsibilities according to the, Palm Beach County Code of Ethics and Florida State Statutes 112.313.
• Fosters positive employee relations and employee morale on a City-wide basis.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be a high school graduate or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.
• Must have at least one (1) year professional, verifiable experience in crime scene investigation
• -OR- Must possess an AS Degree or higher in Forensic Science or closely related field with at least 6-months professional, verifiable experience in crime scene investigation.
• Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License, with a good driving record.
• Knowledge of fingerprint classification, crime scene processing, crime scene photography, reconstruction of shooting scenes, and alternate light source operations.

• Knowledge of modern procedures and methods employed in crime detection and investigations.
• Knowledge of rules of evidence, particularly with reference to fingerprints, latent prints and other personal identifications
• Skill in digital photography including, camera operation, image uploading, storage and printing.
• Ability to successfully complete specialized training courses as required.
• Ability to maintain fingerprint card files.
• Ability to express yourself clearly and intelligently in writing and while testifying in court.
• Requires demonstrated ability to effectively utilize personal computer and office software such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Outlook.
• Ability to enter and retrieve data accurately into the City's mainframe system or other required application.
• Ability to manage and prioritize routine, specialized and complex assignments and problems utilizing knowledge acquired through prior education, training, and experience.
• Ability to adapt to an evolving and continually changing environment.

Punctuality and regular attendance are essential functions of this position, as well as working mandatory shift hours, including days, nights, holidays and weekends, unscheduled overtime as needed and periodic call outs for both work-related and emergency-preparedness situations. Hours may change with short notice to allow maximum crime scene availability.

The abilities expected of all employees include being able to respond to supervision, guidance and direction of superiors in a positive, receptive manner and in accordance with stated policies, be appropriately groomed and attired so as to present a professional image in accordance with the organization's mission, goals, and policies; report for work promptly and properly prepared at the time and place required by the assignment or orders; notify the appropriate supervisor of intended absences in accordance with stated rules; conform with standards and rules regarding use of accrued time; demonstrate a polite, helpful and courteous manner when engaged in any activity with the public; operate and care for equipment to manufacturer's specifications and/or within the specified parameters; demonstrate an understanding, consideration, and respect of cultural, religious, and gender differences when interacting with the public and colleagues.

A comparable combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position, may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

Supplemental Information

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit and talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with both hands and arms. The employee is required to walk, stand, kneel, bend, stoop and drive. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Ability to operate full size van. Ability to perform assignments while wearing a respirator. Ability to work in constricted spaces for extended periods. Works inside and works outside in all weather conditions. Works in daylight and night conditions. Will have contact with prisoners. Possible exposure to communicable diseases. Works with carcinogenic chemicals. Frequently works in stressful situations.

SELECTION GUIDELINES: Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests might be required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement with the employer, and requirements of the job change.

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