City of Tampa

This is highly responsible work in the receipt, testing, transport, storage, issuance, and disposition of narcotics and other sensitive material in the custody of the Tampa Police Department.  Bargaining unit position.

An employee in this class is responsible for performing tasks related to the handling and security of extremely sensitive material.  Work is of more than average difficulty and requires that the employee maintain meticulous records and prepare receipts. Although procedures are well defined and must be strictly followed, reasonable initiative and independent judgment are required when serving as lead worker/trainer or when overseeing daily operations and special projects. Work is performed under general supervision and reviewed through observation, conferences and verification of records maintained.

Responsible for safekeeping of all narcotics/controlled substances that come into the hands of the Tampa Police Department as evidence, by confiscation, or by recovery.

Transport narcotics evidence to state or private labs for analysis as may be required following all related policy and procedures; ensure an escort is obtained from the Narcotics Bureau when large amounts of narcotics are transported.

Act as a liaison between the state or private lab and the Tampa Police Department; may be required to testify in court in reference to the chain of custody involving narcotics evidence sent to the state or private lab.

Maintain the State Attorney’s Office (S.A.O.) Intake Request.

Uses a computer database to record information regarding controlled substances received which includes a description of the article, the name of the person to whom it belongs, the person on the police force from whom it was received, and for what purpose it is being retained; performs computer searches.

Issues property being retained as evidence to the proper officer at time of trial and receives receipt for same; releases property to proper owners upon proof of their ownership and after receiving receipt.

Oversees security and maintenance of the work area.

Prepares or oversees preparation of documentation required; monitors evidence disposal and purge process timelines; coordinates narcotics disposals as outlined in current policy and F.S. § 893.12.

Acts as a primary liaison between the Tampa Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the State Attorney’s Office, the Hillsborough County Clerk’s Office and any other private lab as deemed necessary.

Operates a lightweight motor vehicle as required for FDLE testing to transfer items from the evidence section to the State Attorney’s Office, state lab, private lab or the clerk’s office.

Performs related work as required.

Working knowledge of: sound records keeping methods and storekeeping practices; standard methods, practices, and procedures employed in the storage and issuance of items in a secure storage situation, knowledge of investigations; particularly involving controlled substances.

Ability to: understand and follow oral and written instructions; maintain property control records in accordance with departmental standard operating procedures; perform work requiring moderate lifting and physical exertion; use a computer and related software; perform mathematical computations with speed and accuracy; communicate effectively with persons of diverse backgrounds; operate a motor vehicle skillfully and safely; establish and maintain effective working relationships with officers, other personnel, and the general public.

Graduation from an accredited high school or vocational school and one (1) year of experience in the storage and issuance in a secure storage situation to include experience handling controlled substances and items of a sensitive nature; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.