Crime Scene Specialist - Latent Prints

Description

Under general supervision, the Latent Print Examiner analyzes, compares, and identifies latent fingerprints, palm prints, from crime scenes and other sources. Crime Scene Specialist responds to crime scenes and other serious incidents for the purpose of documenting and gathering evidence.

Posted range is the starting salary. Pay rate offered is based on experience.

Examples of Duties

• Examines and identifies latent prints; properly stores and manages latent prints; organizes and maintains a database of all latent prints; compares latent fingerprints and palm prints to the candidate list generated by an NGI and AFIS system; obtains known fingerprints and palm prints; Key duties include processing evidence, using the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) / Next Generation Identification (NGI), preparing detailed reports, and providing expert testimony in court. Responds to scenes where officers need assistance; maintains files of known fingerprints; teaches basic latent print processing skills; creates charts and other visual aid.

• Examines, handles, and documents various firearms and cartridges that will be used as optimal candidates for entry into the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN).

• Responds to crime scenes, death investigation scenes, traffic fatalities, and vehicle impound lots promptly; responds to follow-up scenes such as search warrants and hospital visits.

• Documents the scene using photographic and video equipment; attends and photographs autopsies; organizes photographs taken by others; maintains the integrity of digital images.

• Processes scenes for latent prints; properly identifies and collects items of evidence; maintains chain of custody.

• Maintains transferred evidence in a secure environment; collects swab samples from barrels of firearms; assists patrol officers with evidence processing, packaging etc.; handles hazardous substances; writes detailed reports; testifies in court to work performed.

• Assists with creating mock crime scenes; maintains supplies and equipment; provides public fingerprint services; cleans the crime scene office; manages the on-call schedule; attends update trainings and various speaking engagements.

Experience and Training

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

• Minimum of four (4) years of full-time employment in a latent print examiner or crime scene investigator position. Work experience can be substituted for a Bachelor's degree in a science or crime scene-related field from an accredited university.

Certificates and Licenses Required

• Latent and palm print course completion preferred or successful completion within two (2) years of hire.

• Crime scene certification through I.A.I. preferred.

• Valid State of Texas Driver’s License or ability to get one within 30 days of hire.