Job Description

Crime Scene Investigator

Under general supervision, conducts investigations on crime scenes, deaths, serious traffic accidents, industrial accidents and other crimes; documents and gathers evidence; and performs other duties as required within the scope of the classification.

The Crime Scene Investigator works under the supervision of the Administrative Services Division of the Police Department and is a non-sworn classification. It differs from the Community Services Officer in that the Crime Scene Investigator is a journey level classification expected to perform the full range of crime scene investigations, while the Community Services Officer performs preliminary investigations, of lesser complexity.

Conducts investigations on crimes including residential, commercial and bank robberies; petty and grand thefts; residential, commercial and vehicle burglaries; stolen and recovered stolen vehicles; domestic violence, homicides, suicides, and all death investigations; sexual assaults; serious injury and fatal traffic accidents; industrial accidents; and other crimes.

Collects, preserves, and transports physical evidence from crime scene investigations such as latent fingerprints, trace evidence, clothing, serological evidence, narcotics and firearms.

Documents crime and accident scenes; takes photographs and videos of crime and accident scenes using a variety of photographic films and techniques.

Writes crime reports based on evidence found, classified, and results obtained.

Examines evidence in both field and laboratory for latent fingerprints using print powders, chemicals and laser techniques.

Prepares charts, graphs or exhibits for investigation or court presentation.

Appears in court as an expert witness and gives depositions.

Assists traffic officers in the investigation of serious accidents; issues parking citations and impounds vehicles.

Reviews, evaluates, processes, and maintains a variety of files related to cases.

Attends a variety of continuing education classes, seminars and meetings to maintain current knowledge of applicable codes, regulations, policies and procedures.

Travels to various sites and locations during the course of work.

Reports to work as scheduled; may work a variety of schedules including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Maintains a regular and consistent attendance record.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Any combination of education, training, and experience that would likely provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination includes:

Knowledge of: - Principles, practices and techniques used in crime scene investigation; evidence collection; analysis and documentation of investigations; including latent fingerprint techniques and crime scene photography - Public safety practices and procedures; - Applicable laws, rules and regulations such as California Penal Code, California Health & Safety Code, California Vehicle Code, California Evidence Code, Municipal Code and various training and information bulletins - Courtroom procedures as they relate to giving testimony Ability to: - Conduct investigations and solicit information - Gather and preserve evidence - Work as a team member and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work - Operate laboratory and photographic equipment - Provide technical support to Police Officers - Communicate clearly, both orally and in writing - Give and follow oral and written instructions - Maintain effective record keeping systems - Write reports and correspondence - Exercise sound independent judgment within established procedure guidelines - Work extended hours when required Education: High school diploma or equivalent certificate. College level course work in crime scene investigation, photography, fingerprint identification, and/or criminalistics preferred. Experience: Three (3) years' experience in crime scene investigation. Certifications/License: Possession of a valid California driver license and an acceptable driving record are required at time of appointment and throughout employment. Must pass an extensive background check. Certificate of completion as a Forensic Technician, Crime Scene Investigator, or equivalent Field Evidence Technician course completion required. Failure to attach proof of certification will result in disqualification.

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