What are the responsibilities and job description for the Photographic Laboratory Technician position at Anne Arundel County?
NATURE AND VARIETY OF WORK
Work involves documenting photographic and audio-visual evidence critical to crime scene investigations and performing related photography for the Police Department. Includes operating and maintaining highly technical and specialized photography and audiovisual equipment used in the taking, developing, and reproducing of print, digital photographs, and audiovisual tapes, and the general operation of the photography unit for the Anne Arundel County Police Department. Work may also involve the training of other employees in the unit and requires knowledge of technical and equipment advances in photography and forensic photography. An employee in this class performs minor repairs on camera equipment or makes arrangements for equipment repair and is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the photography laboratory. Work is performed independently within established policies, procedures and technical guidelines, and is reviewed by a superior through conferences, and reports and results obtained.
Employees in this class are designated essential employees and must report to work under all weather conditions. Shift work and overtime may be required. Work involves exposure to hazardous biological materials, blood-borne pathogens, and infrequently to bodily fluids. Work also includes standing, climbing, reaching, accessing confined spaces, stooping, mixing toxic chemicals and lifting heavy items weighing up to fifty pounds or more. Some travel to work sites including flying for aerial photo assignments is required. Employees may be required to work overtime, holidays, and weekends. Work includes performing minor repairs on camera equipment or arranging for equipment repair, maintenance, and operation of the photography laboratory and is performed independently within established policies, procedures, and technical guidelines.(Note: The duties and responsibilities enumerated in this class specification are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications and salary level for this class. They are not intended to include all of the essential functions of the class.)
Responds to crime scenes to electronically record, photograph, or otherwise assist in crime scene documentation, using 35mm and/or video cameras and a variety of different photographic films and/or digital techniques. May take photographs of crime scenes from helicopters/aircraft. Travels in and out of the County to crime scenes to conduct special investigations.
Documents crime scenes through the development of a photo log ensures that logs of film and print processing are maintained, and submits monthly statistics and other required statistical information.
Processes images from film, digital formats, and videotapes for use in court. Attends autopsies at the Medical Examiner's Office to collect photographic evidence.
Maintains accurate logs, reports, and records of work performed and materials and equipment used. Ensures that records are stored in Police Department storage facilities.
Researches and evaluates new technical developments in photography for crime scene processing, handling, and analysis of crime laboratory evidence and applies emerging technologies, as needed.
Selects, inspects, and tests equipment and accessories for proper operation; ensures proper storage of equipment and accessories; maintains adequate inventory levels of supplies and equipment; and submits work orders for maintenance and repair of equipment and facilities.
Operates and maintains laboratory photographic equipment, still and video cameras, digital identification card systems, digital imaging equipment, time-lapse videocassette recorders, software, scanners, printers, audio equipment, related lighting, and other accessories for recordation and documentation of events and incidents; performs or ensures that repairs and preventive maintenance are performed on equipment.
Trains uniform police officers and civilians in the use, care, and operation of photographic equipment.
Performs related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of forensic photographic theory, video recording, still photographic equipment, computer-based photography, and video techniques.
Knowledge of technology and equipment advances in photography and forensic photography.
Skill in the operation of digital and standard photographic and audiovisual equipment, digital image processing and enhancements, and performing routine care and maintenance of equipment.
Skill in handling, recording, and processing photographic evidence.
Ability to operate a variety of office automation equipment and photographic software applications.
Ability to maintain inventory of supplies and equipment and to research and create statistical reports.
Ability to research and create statistical reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other county departments, vendors, and the public.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.Graduation from high school, supplemented by acceptable college course work in photography, audiovisual production, computer-aided design or related areas; two (2) or more years of experience in photography and print making, and developing video presentations; six (6) months or more years of experience with related computer software; and a valid non-commercial Class C motor vehicle operator's license.
NOTE: This position includes a comprehensive background investigation.Preference will be given to applicants with the following:
1.) A working knowledge of computers, and the hardware and software associated with the storage and retrieval of digital images.
2.) Experience in an internationally accredited laboratory actively engaged in forensic sciences.
3.) Professional experience processing law enforcement digital forensic evidence.
4.) Bachelor’s degree or college credits in digital forensics, computer science, information technology, graphic arts, or related field.
5.) Two (2) years professional work experience with photo and/or video imaging processing equipment within a Law Enforcement or commercial organization.
Salary : $49,908 - $89,654