City of Tampa

Perform duties conducting major crime scene investigations to locate, identify, preserve, photograph, and prepare evidence for submission to crime laboratories for analysis.

An employee in this class is responsible for performing assignments of more than average difficulty, which include conducting crime scene investigations to locate and collect evidence. Locating, developing, and collection of latent fingerprints at crime scenes using multiple methods.  Under general supervision, employee performs tasks which require exercise of some initiative and independent judgment. Employee must work rotating shifts to include nights, weekends, and holidays and deal with scenes of violence and death. Work is reviewed through reports submitted and observation while in progress and upon completion.

Conducts crime scene investigations to locate, identify, preserve, photograph, and collect evidence to establish and maintain chain of custody and for submission to crime laboratories for analysis. 

Locate, develop, preserve, and collect latent fingerprints at crime scenes using fuming techniques, powders, chemicals, photographic techniques, and alternate light sources.

Photograph and cast impression evidence to include footwear, tool marks and tire treads for later analysis and comparisons.

Occasionally attend autopsies to photograph, collect and package evidence obtained from decedent to include but not limited to hair, fibers, clothing, body fluids, fingerprints, fingernails, and hair clippings.

Be called to testify in depositions and court proceedings on the proper crime scene investigational methods and procedures to include photographs and collected evidence.

Prepare supplemental crime scene reports to document and explain crime scene personnel findings and involvement.

Assists entry-level crime scene technicians.

Performs related work as required.

Working knowledge of: a wide range of optical, physical, and chemical processes utilized in developing latent fingerprints.

Skill in: locating, identifying, preserving, photographing and collecting items of evidence during investigations; properly operate a digital SLR camera to include night time photography techniques.

Ability to: prepare typed crime scene supplemental reports; operate a mobile crime scene vehicle while understanding and obeying all Florida traffic laws; understand and follow precise oral and written instructions; establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public; handle confidential documents according to procedures in order to maintain their security; perform duties requiring physical strength and endurance; work under hazardous conditions.

Ability to lift 40-60 lbs., mostly standing and a combination of working indoors and outdoors. Requires extended use of computer, typing and viewing monitor.

Graduation from an accredited high school and two (2) years of experience in the Forensic/Crime Scene field; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. An Associate’s degree in Crime Scene Technology or certification in Crime Scene Technology from an accredited college can substitute for the experience.

Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license.

Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.

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.

Health, vision, dental, and life insurance; annual and sick leave; paid holidays; pension and tax-deferred compensation (457) plans; and more.