Forensic Specialist

Applications will be accepted by the Human Resources Department on-line on

Monday, April 8, 2024 - Friday, April 26, 2024.

Only the first 100 qualified applications received will be accepted for further consideration.

JOB SUMMARY:  Performs technical fingerprint, photographic, video and computer graphic tasks related to criminal investigation.  Identifies, documents, collects, and preserves physical and biological evidence.  Performs laboratory analysis for developing latent fingerprints by using conventional techniques.  Performs fingerprint comparisons associated with the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases.Conducts complex crime scene investigations and utilizes specialized techniques in recognizing, searching, documenting, collecting and preserving physical and biological evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, firearms evidence, plant material, blood spatters, tool mark, and tire track impressions.

Makes casts of footprints and other impression evidence.

Documents crime scene utilizing conventional, digital photography including forensic videotaping.

Performs crime scene sketching and diagraming with the assistance of computer aided software.

Performs field and laboratory analysis of physical evidence collected at crime scenes and performs subsequent chemical processing for the detection of latent fingerprints, including laser applications such as the use of alternate light sources (ALS).

Performs presumptive chemical analysis on various types of substances including blood, semen and saliva.

Produces and stores digital photography using digital image archiving software, video storage.  Produces crime scene charts and enlargements.

Testifies in court as an expert witness in the areas of latent fingerprint analysis, crime scene investigation including the documentation, collection, and preservation of crime scene evidence and/or the results of forensic examination/findings.

Processes and compares fingerprints found at crime scenes and coordinates with representatives of other law enforcement agencies in the identification of suspects through comparison of fingerprints and in the use of Automated Finger Print Identification Systems (AFIS) and the CAL-ID AFIS system and Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS).

Prepares court exhibits to depict crime scenes, including latent print comparison charts.

Prepares detailed reports of crime scene investigation and of the forensic analysis performed.

Conducts training programs.

Performs other related duties, as assigned.
Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:

Knowledge of:
Fingerprint classification systems.
Principles and practices of lifting and preserving latent fingerprints.
Principles and practices of collecting and preserving crime scene evidence.
Procedures, practices, and laws regarding the collection, preservation, and integrity of evidence.
Photographic darkroom techniques.
Crime scene procedures.
Computer graphics/digital imaging as it relates to forensic application and processes.
Photography and video techniques.
AFIS computer operations.
CAL-ID AFIS.
IAFIS System.

Ability to:
Perform complex latent fingerprint recovery and classification work.
Accurately adjust color digital images for output to storage media and printers.
Take photographs with film and digital cameras.
Testify effectively in court.
Obtain and maintain expert fingerprint certification.
Respond to crime scenes and search for, collect and preserve physical evidence.
Prepare physical evidence for court.
Operate a City vehicle.
Learn and use law enforcement telecommunications databases and other applications in an appropriate manner including standards of confidentiality.
Provide effective customer service.
Establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with City employees and the public.

Skill in:
Using personal computers and various software applications.
Taking forensic photographs.
Lifting and classifying fingerprints.
Reading, writing and communicating at an appropriate level.

Education, Training, and Experience:

Graduation from high school or equivalent. Four years of recent, paid work experience performing fingerprint identification and related photographic work and processing crime scenes for physical evidence. An Associate's degree in criminal justice or forensic science or 30 semester units of college level course work in fingerprint classification and identification or a closely related field will substitute for two years of the required work experience. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science or a closely related field will substitute for the four years of required work experience.

Licenses and Certificates:

Possession of a valid Class C driver license.HOW TO APPLY:   All applicants must submit an online City application and required supplemental questions to be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process and should not be submitted.  

To substitute work experience for education, please ensure to provide a scanned copy of your college-level transcripts or diploma with your on-line application.  Applicants who indicate receipt of college level coursework or degree from a foreign institution must provide United States credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcripts.  All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than the filing deadline.  You must attach a scanned copy of your college diploma or transcripts to your on-line application.  Failure to do so may result in your application being disqualified.

• Written Examination: 100%

NOTE: THE IN-PERSON WRITTEN EXAMINATION IS TENTATIVLEY SCHEDULED FOR MAY 30, 2024.