identification technician
qualifications
Knowledge of:
Comprehensive knowledge of modern laboratory and criminalistics practices for processing crime scenes and major accident scenes to preserve evidence and identify suspects or determine responsibility. This includes expertise in investigating crime scenes and accidents, such as photographing and diagramming scenes, fingerprinting suspects and victims, and collecting and preserving physical evidence. Proficiency in operating technical equipment like digital cameras, computers, printers, and specialized Crime Lab equipment is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in maintaining identification records systems, conducting fingerprint comparisons, and packaging evidence for submission to laboratories. Knowledge of preparing analysis reports, assisting in court presentations, and maintaining security and confidentiality of investigative matter is necessary.Â
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Ability to:
Learn and excel in specialized criminalistics operations such as photography, fingerprinting, evidence collection and preservation, crime scene diagramming, and operating 3D scanning equipment and software for detailed diagrams. They should be proficient in safely operating and maintaining police vehicles and equipment, as well as utilizing computers, office machines, and lab equipment. Additionally, they should possess strong independent work skills, sound judgment, and mathematical aptitude for making computations. The ability to prepare precise and comprehensive reports, maintain composure at crime or accident scenes, and communicate effectively with staff and the public, both verbally and in writing. Availability for varying work hours, including evenings, nights, days, weekends, holidays, and overtime, is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work well with others in high-stress situations, organize and maintain records, give accurate courtroom testimony, follow verbal and written instructions, and operate motor vehicles proficiently.Â
becoming a identification technician
Salary Range:
$51,974.24 – $66,334.19 dependent on experience
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Employees in this role are responsible for the processing of crime scenes and major accident scenes utilizing modern laboratory and other criminalistics practices to preserve evidence, to identify suspects, and/or to determine responsibility.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Investigates crime scenes and major accidents for identification purposes.Â
- Fingerprints suspects, victims, and deceased persons
- Searches for, collects, and preserves physical evidence of crime scenes and accident scenes
- Takes plaster casts and impressions
- Collects and preserves evidence at autopsies including photographing wounds and injuries
- Operates technical equipment such as digital cameras, computers, police vehicles, two-way radios, and metal detectorsÂ
- Operates Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) workstation for latent print entry and verification
- Crime Lab equipment in the lab or at the crime scene
- Records, preserves, classifies, and files fingerprint identifications and ten print cards, as needed
- Determines persons identity through fingerprints
- Assists in preparing advanced diagrams, charts, and drawings for court presentations, investigative aids, and training.Â
- Regular and predictable attendance is requiredÂ
- Other duties as assigned
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree in Law Enforcement, Physical Science, Criminal/Forensic Sciences, or a related field.
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Other Requirements:
Two years of experience in law enforcement or experience in a Crime Lab is preferred. Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge and skills necessary to perform the work.Â
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Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
- Valid Driver’s License
- International Association for Identification Crime Scene Certification (Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3), preferred.
- Must be able to obtain Level 1 – Certified Scene Investigator certification through testing approved by the International Association for Identification within twenty-four (24) months of hire.
Physical Conditions:
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and see, talk, and hear.
- The employee must be able to occasionally lift and work with up to seventy-five (75) pounds.
- The employee must be able to frequently lift and work with up to fifty (50) pounds.
- The employee must be able to continuously lift and work with up to ten (10) pounds.
- The employee must be able to work both in and outdoors, in all weather conditions, in high places, in confined spaces, in dusty environments, and in high noise levels. A person in this position is frequently exposed to unpleasant odors and biohazard items. This position involves work at crime scenes which may be dangerous, in unsanitary locations, and involve disturbing sights such as murder victims, suicides, and motor vehicle accidents. The works requires adherence to the Universal Barrier Precautions since it involves exposure to infectious and contagious diseases, unsanitary health habits, and contact with sputum, urine, feces, sperm, blood, and vomit.