Forensic Evidence Technician

  • Job Code: W0103
  • Pay Grade:WJ
  • Pay Scale:$20.48-$33.85 Hourly; $42,598.40-$70,408.00 Annually
  • Exempt:No

Overview

Examine items of evidence for latent prints, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), and trace evidence. Develop, collect, document, and preserve any evidence observed or developed in accordance with agency guidelines and established forensic protocols.

Duties & Responsibilities

Note: Depending on assigned responsibilities, employees may perform some or all of the duties below.

  • Conduct examinations of items of evidence to locate, identify, photograph, collect, and preserve evidence to establish and maintain chain of custody and for submission to other units or crime laboratories for analysis.

  • Locate, develop, preserve, and collect latent prints on evidence using fuming techniques, powders, chemicals, photographic techniques, alternate light sources, or any other appropriate means.

  • Collect potential DNA evidence using swabs, gauze pads, or other mediums as directed by senior personnel.

  • Collect potential trace evidence using tweezers, gloved fingers, magnifying glasses, and other mediums as directed by senior personnel.

  • Testify in depositions and court proceedings on the methods and procedures utilized in evidence processing and evidence obtained during the processing.

  • Prepare reports to document findings and involvement.

  • Perform other related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Working knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, and procedures used in evidence processing, preservation, collection, and documentation.

  • Working knowledge of federal, state, and county criminal laws and ordinances pertaining to the collection and use of physical evidence.

  • Working knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, and procedures used in latent print development, preservation, collection, and documentation.

  • Working knowledge of the functions, services, procedures, and regulations of the division to which assigned.

  • Working knowledge of photography practices and techniques.

  • Working knowledge of court proceedings and testimony.

  • Skill in collecting and preserving physical evidence for laboratory analysis.

  • Skill in operating photographic and fingerprint development and collection equipment.

  • 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 work under stressful conditions.

  • Ability to climb, bend, stoop, kneel, or crouch at ground level.

  • Ability to carry up to 60 pounds.

  • Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Minimum Education & Experience

  • A high school diploma or possession of a GED certificate.

  • One year of crime scene investigation experience.

OR

  • A high school diploma or possession of a GED certificate.

  • Successful completion of a crime scene technology, crime scene investigation, crime scene technician certificate program, or equivalent.

OR

  • An associate'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.

Required Pre-Employment Testing

  • Completion of pre-employment testing.

Additional Job Requirements

  • Attendance at the specified Sheriff's Office work location is required.

  • Depending on assignment, employees may be required to possess a valid Florida Driver License at time of employment. Driving history will be thoroughly reviewed and may be grounds for disqualification.

  • No visible tattoos on face, head, and neck. Tattoos determined to take away from the professional appearance of the Sheriff’s Office must be covered with an appropriate white, black, or neutral covering.

  • No illegal drug sale within lifetime.

  • No illegal drug use within the past 36 months. No marijuana use within the last 12 months.

  • No felony convictions within lifetime.

  • No misdemeanor convictions involving perjury, false statement, or domestic violence within lifetime.

  • No dishonorable discharge from any branch of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Coast Guard, National Guard, or Reserve Forces.

  • Successful completion of a background investigation including criminal, reference, employment, and neighborhood checks; polygraph; medical evaluation; and drug screening.

Last updated: 3/7/2024