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County of Contra Costa

Crime Scene Investigator I

Entry-Level JobVerifiedNo experience needed

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What they do

A Criminal Investigator works on criminal cases either as a police detective or private investigator. Investigates people accused of crimes, gathers evidence from crime scene or other searches, reviews evidence gathered by other law enforcement officials. Collects information that may be used for criminal prosecution.

$54,092 / year median in Missouri

+6% projected growth

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Job Description

Job Summary Bargaining Unit:
DSA - Deputy Sheriff's Non-Sworn Rank & File UnitWhy Join Contra Costa County - Office of The Sheriff?

The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is the largest law enforcement agency in Contra Costa with over 1,100 sworn and professional employees dedicated to providing the highest level of law enforcement and customer services. The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff strives to maintain the highest standard of professional integrity, and ethics. The Office of the Sheriff is dedicated to pursuing excellence in performance throughout the organization and in the community through the quality of its personnel.

The Forensic Services Division is recruiting for one (1) vacancy that may be filled at either the Crime Scene Investigator I or II level.

This announcement is for Crime Scene Investigator I.Under direction, Crime Scene Investigator I learns to identify, collect, and preserve crime scene evidence, analyze evidence, prepare reports, testify in legal proceedings and perform other laboratory-related work as required. This is the entry-level class in the Crime Scene Investigator Series. After receiving training, incumbents in this class handle evidence collection and documentation tasks and may provide guidance, technical assistance, or training to law enforcement. This position may involve on-call responsibilities for crime scene response and processing.

We are looking for someone who:

Is committed to honesty, integrity, and ethical conductUnderstands the importance of quality, impartiality, confidentiality, efficiency, and effectiveness in conducting forensic workIs detail-oriented, diligent, and results-focused, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environmentIs able to maintain focus and exhibits stable performance under stress or oppositionIs able to learn new techniques, manage multiple tasks, maintain accurate records, and follow established policies and instructionsIs able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team while demonstrating adaptability and professionalismWhat you will typically be responsible for:

Documenting, preserving, and collecting crime scene evidenceOperating scientific equipment and instrumentation, as well as complex computer systems and databasesWorking cooperatively with sworn and civilian members of law enforcement agenciesCreating detailed crime scene notes and examining crime scene evidence in accordance with established proceduresPreparing written reports and testifying regarding findings, as requiredProviding training to law enforcement personnel, as assignedA few reasons you might love this job:

You will work with a dedicated team of professionals in an environment that provides career long learning and training opportunitiesYou will have the personal satisfaction that comes from applying your knowledge and skills in a field that directly benefits communities through service to the criminal justice systemYou will have the ability to work with cutting-edge forensic technologiesYou will have the opportunity to learn about multiple forensic disciplinesA few challenges you might face in this job:

You will be expected to respond to crime scenes and autopsies, including being called-out to crime scenes in the middle of the nightYou will work in a stressful environment that includes prioritizing multiple assignments with competing deadlines and encountering disturbing information about crimesYou may be asked to work overtime to meet the needs of our customersYou will be asked to handle firearms and biological evidence
Competencies Required:
Analyzing & Interpreting Data:
Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Critical Thinking:
Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims
Professional & Technical Expertise:
Applying technical subject matter to the job
Professional Integrity & Ethics:
Displaying honesty, adherence to principles, and personal accountabilityAttention to
Detail:
Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products
Writing:
Communicating effectively in writing
Customer Focus:
Attending to the needs and expectations of customers
Teamwork:
Collaborating with others to achieve shared goals
Leading Cross-Divisional Collaboration:
Demonstrating cooperation and teamwork while working within and across divisions and teams
Safety Focus:
Showing vigilance and care in identifying and addressing health risks and safety hazards
Oral Communication:
Engaging effectively in dialogueThe eligible list established from this recruitment may remain in effect for six (6) months.

License RequiredPossession of a California Motor Vehicle Driver's License. Out of state valid motor vehicle driver's license will be accepted during the application process.

EducationPossession of a high school diploma, G.E.D equivalency, or a high school proficiency certificate. Completion of an associate's degree from an accredited college or university which included coursework in (1) English Composition or Report Writing; (2) Mathematics or Statistics; and (3) Chemistry or Biology (which must have included a laboratory section).Physical RequirementsAbility to pass a respiratory physical and be medically cleared to wear an air purifying respirator.

Visual RequirementNo deficiency in the ability to distinguish colors.

BackgroundAs determined by a thorough background investigation conducted by the Office of the Sheriff, shall not have been convicted of a felony in this state or in any other state or in any federal jurisdiction, or of any offense in any other state or in any federal jurisdiction, which would have been a felony if committed in this state.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attach unofficial transcripts with their application.

If education completed outside the United States is being used to meet the minimum qualifications, a credential evaluation from a member agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) must also be provided.

Desirable QualificationsIndividual Crime Scene CertificationExperience with crime scene processing & documentationExperience handling firearms and biological evidenceExperience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)Experience working in an accredited laboratory environment, including those operating under ISO/IEC 17020 or ISO/IEC 17025
Application Filing and Evaluation:
Applicants must complete a supplemental questionnaire as part of the application process. Applications will be reviewed and evaluated to determine which candidates will advance to the next phase of the recruitment. Applications must be submitted online at www.cccounty.us/hr by the filing deadline.
Multiple Choice Assessment:
Candidates who possess the minimum qualifications will be invited to participate in an online multiple-choice assessment. The assessment will measure candidates' competencies as they relate to the job. These may include but are not limited to: Critical Thinking, Professional & Technical Expertise, Attention to Detail & Professional Integrity & Ethics, Safety Focus and Oral Communication. (
Weight:
100%)The multiple choice assessment is tentatively scheduled to take place via computer (remotely): September 2026
Departmental Interview:
The department will contact all referred individuals estimated October 2026The Human Resources Department may change the examination steps noted above in accordance with the Personnel Management Regulations and accepted selection practices.

For recruitment‑specific questions, please contact Norma Martinez at Norma.

Martinez@hrd.cccounty.us. For any technical issues, please contact the GovernmentJobs' applicant support team for assistance at +1 855-524-5627.CONVICTION HISTORYAfter you receive a conditional job offer, you will be fingerprinted, and your fingerprints will be sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you have received a conditional job offer. If a conflict exists, you will be asked to present any evidence of rehabilitation that may mitigate the conflict, except when federal or state regulations bar employment in specific circumstances. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with Contra Costa County. If you accept a conditional job offer, the Human Resources department will contact you to schedule a fingerprinting appointment.
DISASTER SERVICE
WORKERAll Contra Costa County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker‑related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT
OPPORTUNITYIt is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.

Contra Costa County is committed to providing equal access and opportunity to qualified individuals with disabilities in its employment practices. If you believe you may anticipate needing reasonable accommodations, please visit our job seeker resources page at: Special Testing Accommodations | Contra Costa County, CA Official Website.#J-18808-
Ljbffr Job Description Bargaining Unit:
DSA - Deputy Sheriff's Non-Sworn Rank & File UnitWhy Join Contra Costa County - Office of The Sheriff?

The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is the largest law enforcement agency in Contra Costa with over 1,100 sworn and professional employees dedicated to providing the highest level of law enforcement and customer services. The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff strives to maintain the highest standard of professional integrity, and ethics. The Office of the Sheriff is dedicated to pursuing excellence in performance throughout the organization and in the community through the quality of its personnel.

The Forensic Services Division is recruiting for one (1) vacancy that may be filled at either the Crime Scene Investigator I or II level.

This announcement is for Crime Scene Investigator I.Under direction, Crime Scene Investigator I learns to identify, collect, and preserve crime scene evidence, analyze evidence, prepare reports, testify in legal proceedings and perform other laboratory-related work as required. This is the entry-level class in the Crime Scene Investigator Series. After receiving training, incumbents in this class handle evidence collection and documentation tasks and may provide guidance, technical assistance, or training to law enforcement. This position may involve on-call responsibilities for crime scene response and processing.

We are looking for someone who:

Is committed to honesty, integrity, and ethical conductUnderstands the importance of quality, impartiality, confidentiality, efficiency, and effectiveness in conducting forensic workIs detail-oriented, diligent, and results-focused, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environmentIs able to maintain focus and exhibits stable performance under stress or oppositionIs able to learn new techniques, manage multiple tasks, maintain accurate records, and follow established policies and instructionsIs able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team while demonstrating adaptability and professionalismWhat you will typically be responsible for:

Documenting, preserving, and collecting crime scene evidenceOperating scientific equipment and instrumentation, as well as complex computer systems and databasesWorking cooperatively with sworn and civilian members of law enforcement agenciesCreating detailed crime scene notes and examining crime scene evidence in accordance with established proceduresPreparing written reports and testifying regarding findings, as requiredProviding training to law enforcement personnel, as assignedA few reasons you might love this job:

You will work with a dedicated team of professionals in an environment that provides career long learning and training opportunitiesYou will have the personal satisfaction that comes from applying your knowledge and skills in a field that directly benefits communities through service to the criminal justice systemYou will have the ability to work with cutting-edge forensic technologiesYou will have the opportunity to learn about multiple forensic disciplinesA few challenges you might face in this job:

You will be expected to respond to crime scenes and autopsies, including being called-out to crime scenes in the middle of the nightYou will work in a stressful environment that includes prioritizing multiple assignments with competing deadlines and encountering disturbing information about crimesYou may be asked to work overtime to meet the needs of our customersYou will be asked to handle firearms and biological evidence
Competencies Required:
Analyzing & Interpreting Data:
Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Critical Thinking:
Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims
Professional & Technical Expertise:
Applying technical subject matter to the job
Professional Integrity & Ethics:
Displaying honesty, adherence to principles, and personal accountabilityAttention to
Detail:
Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products
Writing:
Communicating effectively in writing
Customer Focus:
Attending to the needs and expectations of customers
Teamwork:
Collaborating with others to achieve shared goals
Leading Cross-Divisional Collaboration:
Demonstrating cooperation and teamwork while working within and across divisions and teams
Safety Focus:
Showing vigilance and care in identifying and addressing health risks and safety hazards
Oral Communication:
Engaging effectively in dialogueThe eligible list established from this recruitment may remain in effect for six (6) months.

License RequiredPossession of a California Motor Vehicle Driver's License. Out of state valid motor vehicle driver's license will be accepted during the application process.

EducationPossession of a high school diploma, G.E.D equivalency, or a high school proficiency certificate. Completion of an associate's degree from an accredited college or university which included coursework in (1) English Composition or Report Writing; (2) Mathematics or Statistics; and (3) Chemistry or Biology (which must have included a laboratory section).Physical RequirementsAbility to pass a respiratory physical and be medically cleared to wear an air purifying respirator.

Visual RequirementNo deficiency in the ability to distinguish colors.

BackgroundAs determined by a thorough background investigation conducted by the Office of the Sheriff, shall not have been convicted of a felony in this state or in any other state or in any federal jurisdiction, or of any offense in any other state or in any federal jurisdiction, which would have been a felony if committed in this state.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attach unofficial transcripts with their application.

If education completed outside the United States is being used to meet the minimum qualifications, a credential evaluation from a member agency of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) must also be provided.

Desirable QualificationsIndividual Crime Scene CertificationExperience with crime scene processing & documentationExperience handling firearms and biological evidenceExperience working with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)Experience working in an accredited laboratory environment, including those operating under ISO/IEC 17020 or ISO/IEC 17025
Application Filing and Evaluation:
Applicants must complete a supplemental questionnaire as part of the application process. Applications will be reviewed and evaluated to determine which candidates will advance to the next phase of the recruitment. Applications must be submitted online at www.cccounty.us/hr by the filing deadline.
Multiple Choice Assessment:
Candidates who possess the minimum qualifications will be invited to participate in an online multiple-choice assessment. The assessment will measure candidates' competencies as they relate to the job. These may include but are not limited to: Critical Thinking, Professional & Technical Expertise, Attention to Detail & Professional Integrity & Ethics, Safety Focus and Oral Communication. (
Weight:
100%)The multiple choice assessment is tentatively scheduled to take place via computer (remotely): September 2026
Departmental Interview:
The department will contact all referred individuals estimated October 2026The Human Resources Department may change the examination steps noted above in accordance with the Personnel Management Regulations and accepted selection practices.

For recruitment‑specific questions, please contact Norma Martinez at Norma.

Martinez@hrd.cccounty.us. For any technical issues, please contact the GovernmentJobs' applicant support team for assistance at +1 855-524-5627.CONVICTION HISTORYAfter you receive a conditional job offer, you will be fingerprinted, and your fingerprints will be sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you have received a conditional job offer. If a conflict exists, you will be asked to present any evidence of rehabilitation that may mitigate the conflict, except when federal or state regulations bar employment in specific circumstances. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with Contra Costa County. If you accept a conditional job offer, the Human Resources department will contact you to schedule a fingerprinting appointment.
DISASTER SERVICE
WORKERAll Contra Costa County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker‑related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT
OPPORTUNITYIt is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.

Contra Costa County is committed to providing equal access and opportunity to qualified individuals with disabilities in its employment practices. If you believe you may anticipate needing reasonable accommodations, please visit our job seeker resources page at: Special Testing Accommodations | Contra Costa County, CA Official Website.#J-18808-Ljbffr

Benefits

  • Dental Insurance