Crime Scene Technician I

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 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 perform 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.

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 in training entry level crime scene technicians.

Perform other related work as required.

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

Skill to: Locate, identify, preserve, photograph and collect 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 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.

Graduation from an accredited high school and two (2) years of experience in 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.

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.

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