Forensic Technician - Latent Print Examiner (PT) in Suffolk, Virginia at City of Suffolk
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Job Description
Under limited supervision, conducts scientific and comprehensive evaluations of latent fingerprints and other impressions developed from evidence for the purpose of identification of criminals; serves as custodian of fingerprint and other records; and testifies as an expert witness in court proceedings. May work variable shifts. Reports to the Forensic Supervisor.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be essential in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
- Examine latent fingerprints lifted from crime scenes to determine whether the quality and minutia content are sufficient for comparison.
- Operate the Automated Fingerprint Identification System(AFIS); and scan prints and run the computer search.
- Obtain fingerprint cards for potential matches; and verify matches through magnifying glass examinations.
- Testify in court as an expert witness on latent fingerprint identification.
- Maintain custody/security of a large volume of fingerprint cards and latent prints.
- File fingerprint cards and other records of suspects.
- Examine impression evidence for class and individual characteristics.
- Represent the Police Department in providing public presentations regarding the use of AFIS and the role of fingerprint classification in police investigations.
Bachelor's degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Science, or related field with a minimum of one to three years of experience as a forensic technician; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
Preferred Qualifications
- Latent Print Certification from the International Association for Identification (IAI).
- Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology or other physical/core science.
Special Requirements
- Must obtain and maintain Virginia State Police AFIS operator certification within 6 months of employment.
- Must be able to work rotating shifts (days/evenings/midnights) including weekends and holidays and be available to work overtime when required to meet operational needs.
- Must successfully complete a police background investigation, including polygraph examination.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Required to Perform Satisfactorily
- Knowledge
- Knowledge of advanced photographic principles.
- Knowledge of basic office procedures.
- Knowledge of fingerprint class identification methods and development techniques.
- Knowledge of the properties of friction skin, as it relates to individual characteristics of the hands and feet.
- Knowledge of the history of fingerprints and their role in identification.
- Knowledge of the chain of custody requirements for evidence collection and preservation.
- Skills
- Skill in advanced photography.
- Skill in fingerprint classification and comparison.
- Skill in latent fingerprint development.
- Skill in operating the AFIS computerized system.
- Skill in discharging duties independently with limited supervision.
- Skill in recording data and maintaining accurate, detailed records.
- Abilities
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to identify and differentiate fingerprint patterns, using principles of fingerprint classification and comparison.
- Ability to roll comparable inked fingerprints.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other police department personnel as well as members of outside agencies.
- Ability to communicate effectively with members of the public in a variety of situations.
- Ability to perform work effectively in stressful situations.
- Ability to understand court procedure and provide proper testimony for court cases.
- Ability to work with toxic/hazardous chemicals and handle a variety of hazardous materials on a daily basis.