Forensic Technical Specialist

Overview

The Forensic Services Division has transitioned from traditional methods of record-keeping, analysis, and crime scene documentation to a primarily digital environment. Examples include laser scanning, UAV (drone) mapping and 3D reconstruction of crime scenes, virtual walkthroughs, digital image enhancement, and more. Various laboratory instruments require periodic inspection, maintenance, and calibration. As advances occur, specialized technical support for these emerging technologies becomes vital for maintaining timely, efficient service and appropriate utilization of resources.

Responsibilities

• Maintains crime scene tools and lighting, laboratory instruments, and other equipment
• Performs software/firmware updates as required
• Conducts regular equipment inspections and performs routine maintenance; makes minor repairs or requests repair/replacement as needed
• Maintains FSD-assigned unmanned aerial system hardware (drones)
• Maintains UAS master flight log; communicates with CCPD UAS Unit to ensure compliance with department policy and procedure
• Ensures batteries for all devices are fully charged and ready for use
• Assists FSD personnel with basic computer hardware/software issues; coordinates with city IT personnel as appropriate
• Makes recommendations for computer equipment replacement, repair, or upgrade
• Keeps maintenance and repair records for laboratory analytical equipment and systems (microscopes, measuring devices, scales/balances, photographic equipment, alternate light sources/forensic lasers, vent hoods, etc.)
• Conducts periodic inspections of instrumentation; conducts routine maintenance and minor repairs; arranges for specialized service when necessary
• Conducts inspections of equipment at Forensics Garage, including vehicle lift, door openers, lab equipment, and computers; performs routine maintenance; arranges for specialized maintenance/repair as needed
• Ensures microscopes and other optics (e.g., camera lenses, imaging sensors) are cleaned as needed
• Calibrates balances and other instruments to NIST or other applicable standards
• Maintains detailed documentation for auditing and accreditation purposes
• Communicates with equipment vendors and service providers
• May respond to crime scenes outside of regular business hours to assist lab/crime scene personnel with technology issues
• Maintains detailed records of all support activities
• Maintains employee access to laboratory information management and quality assurance systems (JusticeTrax and Ideagen Qualtrax); manages user accounts
• Assists lab personnel with technical issues
• Communicates with software vendors; acts as on-site point of contact for troubleshooting
• Uses SAP Crystal Reports to create report templates and forms
• Tracks metrics and provides reports to laboratory management
• Using appropriate software, processes data obtained from digital mapping/modeling instrumentation such as 3D laser scanners, unmanned aerial systems (drones), GNSS receivers, and other sources; prepares detailed diagrams/maps and 3D reconstruction of crime scenes
• Prepares courtroom exhibits of crime scenes for investigators, jurists, and other stakeholders, marking areas or items of interest for ready examination/identification
• Creates simplified two-dimensional floorplan diagrams upon request
• Provides general support for department's Digital Information Management System (DIMS)
• Troubleshoots issues with DIMS software/hardware at various locations
• Manages user accounts
• Assists personnel with image uploads or file management as needed
• Prepares recordable media (CD/DVD, flash drives, memory cards, etc.) to investigators or judicial partners
• Coordinates with city Information Technology personnel as appropriate
• Stays abreast of advances in technology, procedures, and techniques
• Participates in internal and external training in relevant knowledge/skill areas
• Attends conferences and trade shows on relevant technology
• Keeps lab administration updated on the latest developments in technology; makes recommendations on applicability to FSD operations
• Prepares multimedia presentations for external stakeholders (media, schools, civic groups, law enforcement partners, district attorney's office, CCPD Training Division, etc.)
• Prepares digital courtroom exhibits on major cases
• Testifies as needed
• May be asked to perform other duties as assigned

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work

• Non Exempt - Full-Time
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays is a schedule requirement
• In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. This job description is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree (Bachelor's Degree in computer science, database management, computer-aided design, or similar is preferred)
• Two (2) years of experience

Licenses and Certifications

• First Aid/CPR Certification within one (1) year of hire
• FAA UAV (drone) Part 107 Certification within one (1) year of hire

Required

• A valid driver's license is required; successful out-of-state candidates must be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license within 90 days of hire

Preferred

• Work experience in a laboratory setting is preferred

Employment Testing

Employment is contingent on passing any post-offer pre-employment screening as listed below:

• Criminal Background Check: Yes
• Motor Vehicle Record Check: Yes
• Drug Screening: Yes
• Physical Exam: Yes

Basis of Rating

A recruitment consultant will evaluate all applications against the posted qualifications and may request additional information. The city may also conduct additional skill assessment tests, in addition to the panel interview.

Supplemental Information

• Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position with the City of Corpus Christi.

The City of Corpus is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). If you require an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please request assistance from the Human Resources Department.