Police Forensic Specialist

Identifies, collects, examines, interprets, classifies, and preserves evidence from major crime scene investigations and serious traffic accidents. 

1. Distinguish the full range of color spectrum in order to visually and physically examine and investigate all types of crime scenes, including but not limited to burglaries, vehicle crimes, thefts, assaults, abuse, criminal damage and death investigations.  
2. Must be able to recognize, develop, collect, and preserve physical evidence, which may include latent fingerprints, tire prints, shoe prints, tool marks, firearms, drugs, DNA and other physical evidence from crime scenes.
3. Digitally records evidence with either a camera and/or 3D scanner at major crime scenes and serious accidents.
4. Utilizes special processing techniques, chemical solutions, a forensic light source or other specialized equipment to develop, record and preserve evidence.
5. Attends autopsies to photograph injuries or obtain fingerprints from deceased individuals.
6. Testifies in legal proceedings as a witness in conjunction with their responsibilities at the crime scene.
7. Prepares and maintains records of technical and scientific findings in accordance with ISO 17025 guidelines, department policies, and unit procedures.
8. Maintains working knowledge through education and training in relevant techniques and procedures in the field of forensic science.
9. Accepts, documents, and enters evidence into the department Records Management System and the Laboratory Information Management System.
10. Inputs data or information into a terminal, tablet. Or PC device
11. Monitor radio communications and speak clearly to the dispatch team on current activities and locations.
12. Provides specialized training to police officers, detectives, and newly hired Forensic Technicians on the proper method of identifying, collecting, and documenting forensic procedures.
13. Gives presentations at schools and community groups on forensic capabilities.
14. Operates city vehicles.
15. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. Candidates with one year of experience in crime scene processing and/or an associate degree in forensic science, criminal justice, chemistry, biology or a related field will be given preference.

Knowledge of: 
The basic principles involved in scientific examination of physical evidence including the recognition, collection, preservation, and submission of all types of evidence.
The basic principles of crime scene photography and the use of photographic and 3D scanning equipment
The operation, maintenance, care, and use of scientific instruments and apparatus used for the detection of physical evidence.
Firearms safety and handling
The uses and effects of chemicals for the enhancement of physical or biological evidence.
Department and unit policies for the range of responsibilities required during the technical process of documenting crime scenes, including safety procedures and biological hazard precautions.

Ability to: 
Learn and apply Standard Operating Procedures to the collection of physical evidence.
Perform job duties in conditions which include decomposing bodies, strong odors, insects, hostile, emotionally charges situation, child and animal victims.
Perform detailed work with a high degree of accuracy and integrity.
Identify, collect, preserve, document, and report activities related to criminal and department investigations.
Remember and recall facts and details about their work activities.
Be able to respond to designated locations using maps or street signs as guidance.
Operate a two-way radio utilizing clear and concise verbal communications.
Abide by verbal and written instructions. Produce written documents in English with clearly organized thoughts using proper grammar.
Effectively communicate findings of scientific test both orally and in writing.
Communicate in English effectively orally one-on-one, in a group setting, over the phone and on the police radio.
Learn job related material through oral instruction, observation, structured lectures and readings.
Complete required OSHA/safety training
Work safely without presenting a threat to self or others.
Present findings in court proceedings
Work cooperatively with the public and other individuals with city employees and members of other agencies
 
Special Requirements
Valid Arizona driver's license.
Obtain Terminal Operator Level A certification within 6 months of hire and must maintain during employment.
Obtain AZAFIS Latent print operator certification within 1 year of hire and must maintain during employment.
Must be available to work rotating shifts with irregular hours, weekends, holidays, on-call basis and availability over the normal duty hours.
Applicants will be required to undergo drug testing prior to employment and will be subject to further drug and alcohol testing throughout their period of employment in accordance with the City of Glendale Substance Abuse policy.


Success Factor Classification Level - Foundational

Success Factors	Definitions	Classification Levels
Personal Accountability & Integrity	Takes personal responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work and in complying with organizational rules, policies and procedures. Earns others’ trust and respect through consistent honesty and professionalism.	Foundational, Professional/Supervisory, Managerial, Executives
Teambuilding & Collaborative Relationships	Inspires and fosters team commitment, spirit, pride and trust; develops cooperative working relationships with others.	Foundational, Professional/Supervisory, Managerial, Executives
Effective Communication	Conveys information respectfully, credibly, and effectively.	Foundational, Professional/Supervisory, Managerial, Executives
Continuous Learning & Development	Assesses and recognizes own strengths and weaknesses; takes initiative in pursuing self-development and learning to expand skills and increase knowledge.	Foundational, Professional/Supervisory, Managerial, Executives
Commitment to Service Excellence	Strives to excel in meeting the needs of both internal and external customers in a fair and equitable manner. Delivers high-quality services with a commitment to continuous improvement.	Foundational, Professional/Supervisory, Managerial, Executives
Innovation	Applies original thinking in approach to job responsibilities and to improve processes, methods, systems or services.	Foundational, Professional/Supervisory, Managerial, Executives

Heavy lifting of up to 50 pounds and climbing ladders may be required during investigations. Must be able to enter, exit, and operate city vehicles.

Working Conditions
Exposure to fumes, lasers and hazardous chemicals used in fingerprint development.
Exposure to distraught victims, combative prisoners, and injured and deceased persons, and possibly to infectious diseases. Exposures can be substantially controlled by the use of safety precautions. Exposure to highly stressful situations for long hours at major crime scenes. Work is performed in all weather conditions.

Salary : $51,919 - $77,879