Forensic Specialist I

Provide forensic services and support to the Lubbock Police Department and outside agencies; write official reports, photograph, measure and diagram crime scenes; collect and process evidence; provide expert courtroom testimony; review criminal cases, perform related duties as needed or required.

• Responds to crime scenes: photographs, collects, processes and stores evidence;
• Photograph persons, injuries, property, vehicles and latent fingerprints;
• Fingerprint individuals as needed;
• Mix chemicals for laboratory and crime scene use, as needed;
• Operates Lubbock Police Department computers, which includes Microsoft Office;
• Measure, sketch and /or diagram crime scenes;
• Able to develop latent fingerprint impressions;
• Ability to analyze and review unsolved cases to determine if current investigative techniques or procedures may be applied to evidence;
• Able to work under stress and use good judgment in emergency situations;
• Able to visually compare minute details during day and night time lighting;
• Deal with the general public courteously, firmly, and tactfully;
• Compare latent fingerprints to known inked or digitally captured fingerprints; make identifications and testify in court to the identification; trace fingerprints;
• Assist in training other personnel;
• Operates a variety of tools and equipment including alternate light source, camera and flash, super glue chamber, fingerprint magnifier, fingerprint processing equipment, fume hood and Integrated Biometric Workstation (AFIS, NGI, etc.);
• Independently perform a full range of police evidence investigative activities;
• Establish, maintain and foster positive working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

A Bachelor's Degree in Forensic Science, Criminology or applicable field and related experience is required. A Master's Degree in Forensic Science, Criminology or applicable field is preferred. A candidate with a preferred Master's Degree may substitute their degree for the two years of work experience in crime scene investigations or a related field.

Work Experience:

Forensic Specialist I requires a two year probationary period including work experience in crime scene investigations or a related field. Must complete the time and experience requirement as well as pass a crime scene competency exam before a Forensic Specialist I can move up to a Forensic Specialist II. Must pass the Forensic Specialist I competency exam within 12 months of completing the work experience requirements.

Valid Driver's License and a good driving record

Physical Exam Required

Must be able to pass extensive background check

This position is subject to twenty four (24) hour callout, variable hours and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays.Knowledge of:

• Law enforcement procedures, methods and techniques;
• Pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations;
• Basic principles of chemistry and biology;
• Basic photography skills, including the ability to work with digital photography software
• Basic knowledge of firearms and proper safety/handling procedures;
• Effective verbal and written communications skills necessary to prepare; accurate and grammatically correct reports in the English language;
• Filing and general office related procedures.

Ability to:

• Respond to crime scenes in a reasonable time in off duty call out situations
• Analyze problems and make sound recommendations;
• Speak and write effectively;
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with administrators, employees, and the public;
• Communicate effectively with others.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry up to 10 pounds;
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds;
• Occasionally climb stairs and other inclined surfaces;
• Occasionally bend and kneel during the shift;
• Occasionally climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl;
• Frequently stand and walk;
• Frequency handle objects of varying weight, size and shapes is essential;
• Frequently push and pull objects;
• Frequently rotate upper trunk to the left or right while sitting or standing;
• Frequently reach above, at or below shoulder height;
• Frequently kneel, crouch, stop, squat, crawl and/or twist.