Crime Scene Technician I

The incumbent is responsible for collecting, documenting, preparing, preserving, examining, securing, and packaging physical evidence for scientific evaluation; preparing detailed, well-written reports; and testifying in court regarding the findings and methods used at the crime scene. Fingerprints and photographs suspects, victims, witnesses. Searches AFIX database to find specific prints or to make comparisons. Corresponds with other agencies and exchanges identification information. Processes all types of crime scenes (burglaries, train deaths, plane deaths, homicides). Attends autopsies and process deceased persons for evidence. Searches and develops latent prints, utilizing various methods. Takes photographs of crime scenes; prints photographs. Searches, collects, preserves, and processes physical evidence. Obtains casts of shoes, tires, instruments and other impressions. Keeps records and prepares detailed reports of findings of examinations and investigations. Proceeds unassisted in various investigations, including death investigations, i.e., taking fingerprint impression of cadavers. Provides courtroom testimony and evidence collection in trials, depositions, and hearings. Draws diagrams of various scenes and utilizes laser mapping equipment. Maintains vehicles and equipment in working order. Operates all types of firearms taken as evidence by loading and unloading. Sifts through arson debris. Handles situations and crime scenes of varying degrees including extreme bio-hazardous conditions (biological, chemical, and drug related). Gives presentations to educational institutions ranging from elementary schools to college. Performs other assigned duties as assigned. Associate's degree in Forensic Science or related field; Bachelor's (B.S.) degree in Forensic Science or related discipline preferred. Must demonstrate knowledge in the field of forensic science, crime scene investigation techniques, and familiarity with current evidence collection and chain of custody . Subject to call-outs during off-duty hours, including nights and/or weekends as required. Off-duty telephone service is required.

Licenses, Certifications or Registrations:

Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida driver's license without restrictions except corrective lenses and must reside within a 25 mile radius of the City of Melbourne. Must meet Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) and Melbourne Police Department background investigation requirements and maintain compliance throughout employment. Must be able to obtain certification through the International Association for Identification (IAI) as a Certified Crime Scene Investigator within two (2) years of employment. Knowledge of crime scene principles, practices, policies, and procedures. Knowledge of applicable laws and legal precedents. Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, County, and City Ordinances and Laws. Knowledge of the basics of Fingerprint Science. Knowledge of technical aspects of crime scene processing. Knowledge of emergency medical and first aid practices. Skill in communication with co-workers and the community. Skill in operating motor vehicles in hazardous situations. Skill in taking, classifying, identifying, and filing fingerprints. Skill in the use of computers, digital cameras and other technical equipment used in crime scene investigation. Skill in searching for, preserving, and interpreting physical evidence and identification data. Skill in maintaining cross index filing systems and in classifying documentary material for filing purposes. Ability to make oral presentations. Ability to investigate situations and to prepare written reports. Ability to act effectively in crisis situations. Ability to read, write, and speak the English language clearly and concisely. Ability to operate a motor vehicle. Ability to perform mathematical calculations to determine bullet trajectory and blood spatter impact origination. Ability to visually inspect items for safety reasons.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Ability to exert between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a recurring basis. Ability to climb a ladder. Ability to exercise manual dexterity for data entry and writing reports. Ability to hear conversations spoken in various tones of voice. Ability to read, write, and speak the English language clearly and concisely. Ability to grasp objects. Ability to operate a motor vehicle. Ability to bend, walk, kneel, crawl, stretch and sit while lifting heavy objects. Ability to identify colors and read symbols. Ability to read and write legal documents. Ability to visually inspect items for safety reasons.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is typically performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity and responsiveness to changes that include goals, priorities, and needs of the organization and position.