What are the responsibilities and job description for the Latent Print Examiner position at Harrison County Sheriff’s Office?
Position Description
A Latent Print Examiner (LPE) will document, evaluate, analyze, and preserve custody of friction ridge evidence using various comparison techniques. An LPE is responsible for determining the quality and print identity utilizing the ACE-V (analysis, comparison, evaluation, verification) methodology. Prepare and enter latent print evidence into the Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), including HCSO, the Texas Department of Public Safety (TX DPS), and Federal Bureau of Investigation New Generation Identification (FBI NGI) systems when applicable. Compare known prints of suspects with latent prints to make identifications. Prepare detailed reports surrounding the identification and comparison of latent and patent prints. Maintain logs and records of examinations performed. Prepare charts and other material for a demonstration of evidence in court. Testify as an expert witness in court on all phases of latent print identification.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Assist, when possible and upon request, in the processing of evidence from a major crime scene and the subsequent latent recovery from those items
- Assistance may be extended to crime scene investigators at the scene of a major crime
- Disseminate to appropriate personnel in the Division information obtained from other law enforcement and or crime laboratories that is pertinent to latent prints (i.e., case laws, new software)
- Coordinates latent work with other forensic laboratories (i.e., HPD, DPS, FBI, HCIFS, and others)
- Assist in the normal function and duties of personnel in the Crime Scene Unit as deemed necessary by the CSU Friction Ridge Section Supervisor
- Assists in the training of new and existing personnel
- Assist with the required maintenance of the Authenticated Digital Asset Management System (ADAMS)
- Must keep abreast of new technology
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree OR five (5) years of experience in the examination, classification, comparison, and identification of prints
- Active Certification through the International Association for Identification (IAI) as a Latent Print Examiner.
- A Forty-hour (40) introductory coursework in latent print comparison
- A forensic photography course
- An expert testimony course
Knowledge of:
- The rules of digital and physical evidence
- Proficient in the use of Superion/RMS, FileOnQ, JWEB, and Sharepoint computer systems, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office or similar programs
- Excellent communication skills – both written and oral
- Willing to learn advanced computer techniques and applications pertinent to the investigation and prosecution of computer/Internet-based crime, including computer hardware and network infrastructure
- Work with computers & current technology
- Manage a caseload with great attention to detail and effectively utilize time management skills
- Work effectively in a team environment as well as independently
- Work within complex environments of large-scale operations
- Provide Court Testimony
- Travel for training for an extended period out of the county/state (up to 3 weeks at a time)
- Perform in a high-volume environment with time constraints
- Remain current on the training of new technology
- Be available for on-call status
- Be available to work any shift
- Be available to work overtime and varying duty hours as deemed necessary
Preferences
- Previous investigative experience
- Public speaking experience (small and large scale audiences)
- Certified through the International Association of Identification (IAI) as a Latent Print Examiner
General Information
Important Notice:
Harris County Sheriff's Office employees are exposed to confidential and law enforcement sensitive information. A thorough background investigation is required to properly evaluate the suitability of applicants for employment. You must provide accurate information in all aspects of the process. The process will end for applicants who fail to provide truthful information.
Hours:
- 40 hours per week - Various shifts based on the position offered
- Possibly including Weekends and Holidays
- Overtime and varying duty hours as required
- Houston
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
