Under general supervision, plans, organizes, supervises, and reviews the work of civilian personnel assigned to the Forensic Services Section, including field and office staff; supervises, plans, and coordinates a comprehensive forensic services program, including processing complex and major crime scenes, analyzing physical evidence, recording or visualizing physical and trace evidence; and performs related work as required.

TASKS:

• Manages the activities of the crime scene investigation unit; plans, organizes, supervises and reviews the work of subordinates; sets work schedules; trains and evaluates assigned staff; participates in the selection of assigned staff; assigns work based upon priorities of cases and available personnel.
• Evaluates the evidence requirements of cases; monitors work progress and reviews results for accuracy and completeness of assignment.
• Remains current on industry standards and new or innovative evidence-gathering and crime scene investigation techniques and tools; ensures staff is also kept current through training and other notification processes; identifies specific training needs of staff; designs, develops and coordinates training programs related to crime scene investigation and evidence preparation.
• Assumes control of crime scenes as the field supervisor; participates in complex and/or sensitive investigations and evidence gathering; assists subordinates in specialized or difficult work; prepares narratives and statistical reports related to evidence gathering and crime scene investigations.
• Prepares and gives expert court testimony; evaluates changes in technology and/or the law; recommends and implements new/revised practices, policies and procedures accordingly.
• Assists in budget preparation by providing input regarding staffing, training, and equipment requirements.
• Acts as a liaison with the courts to ensure the efficient and accurate processing of information; maintain liaison with other agencies, committees, etc., and advises superiors regarding new procedures, innovations, and problems that may arise; attends meetings related to area of assignment; operates a personal computer and uses applicable software to produce a variety of reports and correspondence; and drives a vehicle on City business.

QUALIFICATIONS: An Associates Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Forensics, or a closely related field, AND four years of experience in crime scene investigation and scene analysis OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Must possess at the time of application and maintain a valid California Driver's License.

• Knowledge of principles and techniques of supervision related to the direction, evaluation, and training of subordinates; criminal law, including rules of evidence; goals, methods, and techniques of modern crime scene investigation and the development of information from physical evidence; crime scene techniques and analytical procedures including photography, sketching, latent print development Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) evidence recognition, collection and preservation; evidence analysis and interpretation; and type and content of testimony which constitutes being an expert witness; English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation; negotiating and conflict resolution techniques; public relations and customer service techniques; budgeting methods and procedures; computer applications related to the area assigned.Skilled in Analyzing administrative, operational, and organizational problems; evaluating alternatives and reaching sound conclusions; collecting, evaluating, and interpreting varied information and data; Interpreting and applying laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; Preparing clear, concise, and complete reports and other written materials; maintaining accurate records and files;
• Ability to analyze, interpret, apply and enforce applicable federal, state, and local policies, procedures,laws, regulations and department policies; effectively and efficiently schedule, supervise and train personnel engaged in the field investigation of crime scenes or the laboratory processing of physical evidence; coordinate work efforts with other police units; assess requests for service and make appropriate personnel and equipment assignments; coordinate field activities of employees; monitor field and laboratory assignments and provide assistance when necessary;perform evidence gathering and crime scene investigations of complex and/or sensitive cases;prepare and give expert court testimony regarding cases; remain current on new technology and laws affecting the forensic services detail; develop, schedule and participate in training programs; perform research and analysis, make recommendations and prepare detailed,comprehensive reports; establish liaison with the court system; adhere to deadlines and handle multiple projects; exercise tact, courtesy, and diplomacy in understanding problems, explaining regulations, and recommending solutions; understand and carry out oral and written instructions
• Proficient in operating office equipment, including computers and software, fax machines, copiers, scanners, and other specialized equipment, MS Office software packages, and other industry-related software.