Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Identify, collect, preserve and perform physical comparisons and/or chemical analyses of evidence for fingerprint comparisons and the presence of drugs; to accurately identify controlled substances; perform a variety of physical comparisons and/or chemical analyses of evidence including paint chips, shoe prints, tire tracks and tool marks; process evidence for identification of latent or trace materials; provide expert testimony in court as to the identification of fingerprints, controlled substances and drugs.
JOB CLASSIFICATION
Non-Exempt, Safety Sensitive.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direction from Police Civilian Manager.
PRIMARY DUTIES--The following are examples of primary duties assigned to positions in this classification. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.
1. Perform chemical analysis of suspected drugs using color screening tests, microscopic examination, instrumentation and infrared spectroscopy; prepare drug testing reagents from chemical stock.
2. Prepare clear and concise reports concerning drug identifications, laboratory examinations, crime scene investigations and fingerprint comparisons.
3. Prepare evidence, exhibits, fingerprint charts and diagrams; provide expert testimony in court for drug examinations, laboratory examinations, crime scene investigations and fingerprint conclusions.
4. Perform serial number restoration of firearms using chemical processing and interpretation of evidence.
5. Conduct crime scene investigations; identify, collect and preserve physical evidence; perform physical, chemical, biological, microscopic and/or instrumental examinations of evidence including narcotic and toxic substances.
6. Process evidence for fingerprint comparison using various powders and chemical techniques; compare latent prints to known finger or palm prints; evaluate latent prints for comparison and entry into the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
7. Provide instruction to other department employees in the handling of physical evidence and other procedures.
8. Maintain lab equipment; perform minor repairs or submit work orders for necessary care.
9. Perform other duties of a similar nature or level.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Methods and techniques of crime scene processing, evidence collection, forensic examination and fingerprint identification.
Operational characteristics of forensic instruments, equipment and tools.
Laboratory techniques and procedures and safe working practices.
Chemistry, biology, biochemistry and physics principles.
Methods and techniques of classifying and identifying individuals by fingerprints.
General mathematics including addition, subtraction, division and multiplication.
Principles and practices of record keeping.
English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Modern office technology and equipment, including computers and related software applications.
Applicable tools and equipment operations.
Applicable Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations.
Ability to:
Perform a variety of property and evidence collection, processing and analysis functions.
Operate a variety of laboratory equipment in a safe and effective manner.
Conduct a variety of forensic examinations on suspected narcotics and other toxic substances.
Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public and City employees.
Perform fingerprint comparisons and classifications using various powders and chemical techniques.
Update and maintain accurate fingerprint cards, records and files.
Accurately identify controlled substances and fingerprints with no errors and provide expert testimony in court.
Prepare clear and concise analytical reports.
Establish and maintain accurate records, logs and files.
Interpret and apply Federal, State and local policies, laws and regulations.
Operate and use modern office equipment including computer and various software applications.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Speak, read, comprehend, and write the English language fluently.
Experience and Training Guidelines
Minimum Requirements:
Experience:
Two (2) years of increasingly responsible forensic analysis, fingerprint identification or drug examination experience.
Training:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, criminal justice or a related field.
License or Certificate
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Colorado driver license.
Possession of, or ability to obtain, International Association of Identification latent print certification.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Environmental Conditions:
The job is performed in the following working environment:
Office environment; exposure to computer screens.
Field environment.
The following condition(s) may be present on a continuing basis:
Atmospheric Conditions (fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation)
Hazardous materials (chemicals, blood and other body fluids, etc.)
Local Travel
Physical Conditions:
The job is characterized by:
Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.
The following physical activities are very or extremely important in accomplishing the job’s purpose and are performed on a daily basis:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to balance, sit, stand, reach, grasp, walk on level and slippery surfaces, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb ladders, talk, hear, see and demonstrate manual dexterity. The employee may be required to lift and/or carry equipment and supplies weighing 25 pounds or more and assist with evidence collection. Employee may be exposed to pathogens and chemicals at crime scenes, and may work outside in various weather conditions. Employee may use photographic and other chemicals which expose the employee to fumes, dust and air contaminants. The employee will be exposed to fingerprint powders, fingerprint inks, fingerprinting chemicals, laboratory chemicals, biohazard conditions and packaging materials.