Crime Scene Technician

JOB
Under the leadership and guidance of the Chief of Police, this is a responsible non-supervisory assignment which performs a specialized function for the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases. The Crime Scene Technician responds to crime scene related call outs during and after normal working hours. The Crime Scene Technician testifies in a court of law and attend any required legal proceedings. The Crime Scene Technician will also assist with the recovery, storage, processing and lawful disposition of evidence.This is an emergency essential position that requires performance of emergency duties and actions to prepare, repair, and recover the City before, during, and after any adverse storm events (hurricane, tornado, tropical storm, winter storm, ice storm, etc.) or other conditions (natural or manmade).ESSENTIAL DUTIESTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position. Respond to crime scene call-outs during business hours and after hours (crime scene responds 24/7, 365 days a year).Work extended hours without notice.Operate department vehicles and crime scene equipment.Identification, collection and preservation of all types of physical evidence.Work safely in bio-hazard situations/proper use of PPE (personal protective equipment).Use digital cameras and videography to document scenes properly in various lighting situations, with strong detail needs and exceptional exposure presentation.Documentation of various events and people via photography and videography. Document victim(s) and suspect(s) through detailed reports, photographs and other evidence-gathering methods to ensure accurate case records.Attend and document autopsies for victims of violent crimes and natural deaths.Attend and provide training and demonstrate proficiency in knowledge and application of crime scene investigation techniques, evidence collection and forensic procedures.Coordinate with various department sections and outside governmental agencies in an effective, cooperative and team focused manner to effectively prosecute cases.Operate with an understanding and practice of operational secrecy.Process crime scenes to approved standards to assist in determining criminal patterns and suspect identification. Review and prepare written reports to mandated standards.Locate and collect latent print evidence.Process and conduct appropriate laboratory examinations of evidence.Document, collect and analyze physical evidence.Screen and submit DNA and trace evidence.Provide witness testimony in legal and court proceedings.Maintain the integrity of evidence storage facilities.Maintain accurate records and chain of custody of evidence.Assist in establishing section goals and objectives.Monitor the transfer of evidence to qualified laboratories.Communicate effectively, cooperatively, professionally and in a team focused manner both verbally and in writing.Assist in establishing positional goals and objectives.In the absence of a Property and Evidence Custodian assist with duties of the Custodian. Perform other duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIESAbility to analyze situations quickly, objectively and to determine the proper action to take. Ability to cope with situations firmly, courteously, tactfully and with respect for the rights of others. Ability to collect such physical evidence as bodily fluids and weapons.Skills in successful photograph with varying and less than ideal lighting, environment and situations including ability to compile photos in a quality acceptable for forensic and legal documentation. Knowledge of the responsibilities and nature of confidential administrative work.Ability to learn the geography of the City and its physical and social characteristics. Ability to learn modern crime scene methods and procedures, basic first aid, applicable laws and ordinances. Ability to perform sustained acts of physical exertion and endure entire periods of duty under unfavorable conditions including weather, terrain, emotional and varying other conditions.Ability to conduct more complex investigations and prepare associated reports.Ability to learn and utilize third-party software in an effective, independent and self-motivated manner. Knowledge of appropriate investigative techniques unique to the assigned specialized position, as well as pertinent case law and rules of criminal procedure.Working knowledge of all department-assigned equipment and maintenance in serviceable condition.Strong skills in Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.Designated availability to respond as directed or requested.Ability to communicate effectively and professionally in English orally and in writing.Ability to travel nationwide to attend training 24-hour availability to respond as directed or requested.Ability to establish and maintain effective, cooperative, team-focused working relationships with team members, leadership and the public.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
High school diploma or possession of an acceptable equivalent diploma.One (1) year prior experience at a law enforcement agency.Completion of Associate’s Degree or higher preferred. Valid driver’s license.PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Summary: Occasionally: - Lift/Carry: 50 lbs., Push/Pull: 50 lbs., Squat/Kneel, Climb, Crawl, Traverse Uneven Terrain, Work at Heights.Frequently: - Lift/Carry: 15-50 lbs., Push/Pull: 15-50 lbs., Bend, Reach Above Shoulder, Reach Outward, Drive, Walk, Stand, SitConstantly: Lift/Carry: 15 lbs. or less, Push/Pull: 15 lbs. or less, Twist/Turn, Ability to Hear (with or without hearing aid), Acceptable Eyesight (with or without correction) and/or signal people to convey and exchange information; differentiate between colors or shades of color, Type/Keyboard Functions, Handling/ Fine Motor Skills.Working Conditions: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.The employee may become exposed to radiant and electrical energy sources as well as grease, oils, solvents or chemicals, dust, and noise.Frequent exposure to both indoor and outdoor environments, contact with the public, as well as a variety of environmental, climate, weather and terrain conditions.Subject to varied work hours, overtime and recall during emergencies as essential personnel.Risk/Safety Conditions: The position involves a significant degree of inherent danger and risk, as well as stress being a consistent part of the job.Potential risk of biomedical waste exposurePotential risk of contact with harmful controlled substance