Crime Scene Investigator/Evidence Technician - Sheriff's Office (0426)

Nature of Work

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Evidence Technician to join our team. This position is responsible for documenting, collecting, preserving, and evaluating physical evidence at crime scenes, serious motor vehicle accidents, and catastrophic incidents using a variety of methods. The Evidence Technician manages the evidence and property room, maintains strict chain of custody, prepares investigative and departmental reports, and coordinates the transfer, return, and court-ordered disposal of evidence and property. The role also includes testifying in court, supporting the Criminal Investigation Division, supervising crime scene processing, and providing training to deputies and detention staff.

Typical Duties

(Illustrative Only)

• Documents and preserves physical evidence at crime scenes, catastrophic incidents, and serious motor vehicle accidents through the use of various methods
• Collects, examines, and evaluates all physical evidence
• Manages the evidence and property room
• Initiates investigative reports
• Appears and testifies in all required court proceedings on all aspects of evidence
• Supervises and manages the evaluation and documentation of crime scenes, serious motor vehicle accidents, and catastrophic events and direct the collection of physical crime scene evidence
• Prepares departmental reports and special orders as they pertain to evidence/property issues and crime scene evaluations
• Research, prepare, and coordinate documentation for court ordered disposal of evidence/property
• Supports the Criminal Investigation Division in the processing of crime scenes and other critical incidents
• Maintains the chain of custody of physical evidence for all criminal cases
• Manages and coordinates the transfer of evidence to other jurisdictions for forensic testing and dispose of all found property acquired by the department, including the return of items of evidence and property to legal owner
• Provides crime scene investigation and evidence collection/submission training to Patrol Deputies and Detention Officers

Minimum Qualifications

Associate degree in criminal justice and two years of experience in crime scene investigations, OR

Three years of experience in crime scene investigations, OR

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice and one year of experience in crime scene investigations, OR

Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must obtain an Arizona driver's license by date of hire and maintain it throughout employment. Pre-employment background investigation and drug testing required. Must be able to become certified on ACJIS computer system.

This position is non-exempt from overtime.

This position is safety sensitive.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of:
• Procedural and legal guidelines for the handling and release of evidence
• Principles and practices of crime scene investigation
• Police investigative methods
• Forensic procedures and advance in modern forensic technology
• Inventory and record keeping procedures
• The principles and practices associated with effective customer service
• Criminal justice and department computer system and specialized software

• 
  Skill in:
• Advanced photographic techniques
• Crime scene computer diagramming utilizing the AIMS unit and computer diagramming or mapping software
• Interpreting gunshot wounds and bullet trajectory
• Interpreting evidence at crime scenes (Example: shoe impressions, blood spatter)
• Effectively communicating findings and conclusions to the case detective
• Effectively presenting testimony on crime scene investigation, processing, evidence collection, preservation and its relevance to the case

• 
  Ability to:
• Make decisions independently and in compliance with established policies and procedures, state statutes and nationally accepted crime scene processing guidelines
• Handle multiple projects simultaneously and exercise good judgment in prioritizing work assignments
• Process scenes of major crimes or incidents at any hour of the day or night, under any weather conditions, on call 24 hours/7days
• Work in environments that may require exposure to hazardous chemicals or evidence that may be bio-hazardous or carcinogenic
• Prepare exhibits and scene diagrams for trial
• Work closely and effectively communicate with County Attorney regarding evidence exhibits and testimony
• Process crime scene evidence with accuracy and attention to detail
• Learn and use various methods and techniques of collecting and preserving evidence
• Complete accurate, detailed and grammatically correct reports
• Work under highly emotional conditions which are averse to sight, smell and touch
• Recognize emergency, dangerous or hazardous situations
• Exercise sound judgment and respond appropriately to emergency situations
• Maintain accurate inventory and records
• Follow prescribed procedures when handling materials classified as biohazards
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public
• Work safely and support the culture of workplace safety
• Follow written and verbal instructions
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing

Coconino County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.

Employee Benefits

Coconino County offers a comprehensive employee benefits
package to regular employees working 30 or more hours per week that includes:

(Regular Part Time employees receive some benefits on a pro-rated basis. Temporary and Seasonal employees do not receive benefits. Elected officials are not eligible for vacation and sick leave.)

• Vacation/Annual Leave
• Sick Leave
• 10 Holidays Per Year
• Health Care Insurance
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• Group Life Insurance
• Pre-Tax Deduction Plan
• Sick Leave Conversion Plan
• Personal Day Purchase Program
• Vacation Sell Back Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Wellness Program
• Long-Term Disability
• Arizona State Retirement System
• Employee Assistance Program
• On-going Training Opportunities
• Free bus transportation/ EcoPass bus pass

Elective Coverage

• Dependent Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Supplemental Life (for employees & dependents)
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Savings Account
• Tax-deferred investment program
• Accidental and Disability Insurance
• Short Term Disability