Digital Forensic Technician

JOB SUMMARY

The Digital Forensic Technician is responsible for the organization, management, and proper handling of digital evidence. This position will primarily focus on video evidence redactions for open records requests, ensuring secure storage and timely sharing of evidence with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office and other criminal justice agencies.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Video Evidence Redaction

• Review video files thoroughly to identify and redact sensitive or protected information, including personally identifiable information (PII) and any content exempt under public records laws.
• Utilize advanced video editing and redaction software to effectively blur or obscure specific parts of footage in accordance with privacy standards.
• Document each redaction made, ensuring transparency and compliance with open records regulations.

Evidence Storage and Management

• Implement and maintain a secure, organized, and accessible digital evidence storage system to handle video, photographic, and other electronic evidence.
• Maintain a rigorous chain of custody protocol to protect the integrity of stored digital evidence and prevent unauthorized access or tampering.
• Perform regular audits of evidence storage, verifying log accuracy and updating records to reflect the current status and location of each file.

Evidence Sharing and Distribution

• Coordinate the preparation and secure sharing of digital evidence with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, as well as other criminal justice or law enforcement agencies.
• Ensure all evidence transfers comply with legal protocols, data security requirements, and confidentiality agreements.
• Maintain accurate records of all evidence distributions, including recipient information and transfer dates, to ensure accountability.

Compliance and Legal Adherence

• Remain current on local, state, and federal laws regarding open records requests, privacy, data security, and evidence handling, including any updates to relevant case law or regulations.
• Regularly review redaction and evidence management protocols to ensure adherence to legal standards and mitigate risk of non-compliance.
• Conduct periodic reviews of internal processes, making necessary adjustments to align with changes in legal requirements and industry best practices.

Technology and Software Management:

• Operate and troubleshoot digital forensic software, redaction tools, and other technology used in evidence handling and processing.
• Regularly update software and digital tools to maintain compatibility, data security, and optimal performance.
• Proactively research and recommend new tools, upgrades, or workflow improvements that could enhance the efficiency and security of evidence processing and storage.

Digital Evidence Extraction and Preservation:

• Collaborate with technical teams or vendors as needed to extract digital evidence from various devices such as surveillance cameras, body-worn cameras, and in-car cameras.
• Preserve digital evidence using methods that maintain its original format and integrity, ensuring admissibility in legal contexts.
• Document the extraction and preservation processes meticulously, creating a reliable chain of custody for all collected evidence.

Administrative Support Functions:

• Engage in continuous learning to stay updated on advancements in digital forensics, evidence management, and video redaction techniques.
• Respond promptly to requests for video redactions or evidence distribution, ensuring stakeholders receive timely and accurate support.
• Performs additional duties as assigned that fall within the scope of the job functions.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Requires a High School Diploma or GED and two (2) years of related work experience. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience will be accepted on a year for year basis. The total qualifying equivalent combination is three (3) years.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

· Comprehensive knowledge of digital forensics, including data recovery, digital evidence collection, and preservation techniques.

· Knowledge of departmental practices and systems.

· Knowledge of established laws, bylaws, privacy standards, evidence handling protocols and regulations, and any local, state, and federal regulations related to digital evidence and chain of custody.

· Skilled in the use of small office equipment, including copy machines or multi-line telephone systems.

· Skilled in using computers for data entry, word processing, and/or documenting purposes.

· Proficiency in using digital forensic tools and software for evidence extraction and analysis.

· Ability to analyze digital data for evidence, identifying relevant information while maintaining the integrity of files.

· Ability to write simple sentences containing subject, verb, and object, and/or series of numbers, names, and addresses.

· Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and an orientation toward customer service.

· Ability to organize and communicate effectively.

· Ability to perform the duties assigned according to his or her own judgment and requesting supervisory assistance when necessary.

· Ability to maintain constructive and cooperative working relationships with others.

· Ability to cooperate with fellow employees as a team member.

· Ability to work a flexible schedule, including but not limited to days, nights, weekends, holidays, special events, and natural disasters.

CERTIFICATION, LICENSE AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

· The candidate must have a valid, US driver’s license

· CJIS compliance training, level III

· Able to meet the Police Department’s hiring standards through an extensive background investigation

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $42,015.23 - $60,922.09 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $42,015 - $60,922