CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATOR

SUMMARY

Under direction of the sergeant, a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is a forensic professional who collects, preserves, and documents physical evidence at crime scenes to support criminal investigations and legal proceedings.

NATURE OF WORK

Crime Scene Investigators (CSI), an essential profession that plays a pivotal role in modern law enforcement. These professionals are highly trained and adept at meticulously examining crime scenes, collecting vital evidence, and collaborating with police officers in reference to criminal activities. The work requires keen observational skills, scientific acumen, and an unwavering commitment to upholding justice through methodical and unbiased investigation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collect and preserve physical evidence from crime scenes
• Document crime scenes through photographs and sketches
• Analyze evidence in forensic laboratories
• Collaborate with law enforcement and forensic scientists
• Prepare detailed reports on findings and procedures
• Testify in court as expert witnesses regarding evidence collected
• Ensure evidence is collected following legal and procedural protocols
• Maintain accurate records and logs of casework
• Work extended hours

(These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other job-related marginal duties as required.)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Considerable knowledge of crime scene investigations principles, practices, methods, and procedures.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and county criminal laws and ordinances pertaining to the collection and use of physical evidence.
• Working knowledge of the fingerprint identification and preservation principles, practices, methods, and procedures.
• Working knowledge of the functions, services, procedures, and regulations of the assigned division.
• Working knowledge of photography practices and techniques.
• Working knowledge of court proceedings and testimony.
• Ability and willingness to conduct crime scene processing and investigations.
• Ability to prioritize work.
• Ability to follow established procedures.
• Ability to work effectively with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to collect, organize, and evaluate data and develop logical conclusions.
• Ability and willingness to work with minute details over extended time periods.
• Ability to use a computer and related software.
• Ability to handle confidential information.
• Ability to prepare records and maintain reports.
• Ability to read a road map.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions.
• Ability to climb, bend, stoop, kneel, or crouch at ground level.
• Ability to carry up to 60 pounds.
• Ability and willingness to work outside in a subtropical climate under adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Ability to process a scene when needed.
• Ability to work a flexible work schedule.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A high school diploma or possession of a GED certificate.

Three years of crime scene investigation experience with a law enforcement agency.

OR

An associate's degree from an accredited institution of higher education with a major in biology, chemistry, criminal justice, crime scene technology, forensic science, or related field.

Two years of crime scene investigation experience with a law enforcement agency.

OR

A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution of higher education with a major in biology, chemistry, criminal justice, crime scene technology, forensic science or related field.

One year of crime scene investigation experience with a law enforcement agency.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work in both office and laboratory environments within a law enforcement agency, as well as at various indoor and outdoor off-site locations.

Elevated risk of exposure to bloodborne or airborne pathogens, bodily fluids, chemical or biological toxins, and contagious diseases.

Stand or sit at a workstation for prolonged periods and walk long distances.

May engage in heavy physical exertion (e.g., lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials up to 50 pounds).

Work standard business hours.

May work non-standard hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.

May need to work extended hours

In the event of an emergency or disaster, may be required to respond promptly to duties and responsibilities as assigned by management chain. Such assignments may be for before, during or after the emergency/disaster.

Have a flexible work schedule.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

General and specific assignments are received, and work is normally performed with latitude for the use of independent judgment in the selection of work methods and procedures, work is reviewed through analysis of reports, personal inspection, and discussion.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None