Crime Scene Investigator/Evidence Technician - Sheriff's Office (0426)

JOB
We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Evidence Technician to join our team. This position is responsible for documenting, collecting, preserving, and evaluating physical evidence at crime scenes, serious motor vehicle accidents, and catastrophic incidents using a variety of methods. The Evidence Technician manages the evidence and property room, maintains strict chain of custody, prepares investigative and departmental reports, and coordinates the transfer, return, and court-ordered disposal of evidence and property. The role also includes testifying in court, supporting the Criminal Investigation Division, supervising crime scene processing, and providing training to deputies and detention staff.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
(Illustrative Only)Documents and preserves physical evidence at crime scenes, catastrophic incidents, and serious motor vehicle accidents through the use of various methodsCollects, examines, and evaluates all physical evidenceManages the evidence and property roomInitiates investigative reportsAppears and testifies in all required court proceedings on all aspects of evidenceSupervises and manages the evaluation and documentation of crime scenes, serious motor vehicle accidents, and catastrophic events and direct the collection of physical crime scene evidencePrepares departmental reports and special orders as they pertain to evidence/property issues and crime scene evaluationsResearch, prepare, and coordinate documentation for court ordered disposal of evidence/propertySupports the Criminal Investigation Division in the processing of crime scenes and other critical incidentsMaintains the chain of custody of physical evidence for all criminal casesManages and coordinates the transfer of evidence to other jurisdictions for forensic testing and dispose of all found property acquired by the department, including the return of items of evidence and property to legal ownerProvides crime scene investigation and evidence collection/submission training to Patrol Deputies and Detention OfficersEssential functions of this position include but are not limited to driving; standing and walking, lifting and carrying 50 lbs; pushing/pulling 150 lbs; working in dynamic environments alongside law enforcement personnel, other agencies and family members; vision acuity (near & far) paperwork; color vision; hearing and speech for ordinary conversations; finger dexterity, computer input.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

• Considerable knowledge of: - Procedural and legal guidelines for the handling and release of evidence- Principles and practices of crime scene investigation- Police investigative methods- Forensic procedures and advance in modern forensic technology- Inventory and record keeping procedures- The principles and practices associated with effective customer service- Criminal justice and department computer system and specialized software• Skill in: - Advanced photographic techniques- Crime scene computer diagramming utilizing the AIMS unit and computer diagramming or mapping software- Interpreting gunshot wounds and bullet trajectory- Interpreting evidence at crime scenes (Example: shoe impressions, blood spatter)- Effectively communicating findings and conclusions to the case detective- Effectively presenting testimony on crime scene investigation, processing, evidence collection, preservation and its relevance to the case• Ability to: - Make decisions independently and in compliance with established policies and procedures, state statutes and nationally accepted crime scene processing guidelines- Handle multiple projects simultaneously and exercise good judgment in prioritizing work assignments- Process scenes of major crimes or incidents at any hour of the day or night, under any weather conditions, on call 24 hours/7days- Work in environments that may require exposure to hazardous chemicals or evidence that may be bio-hazardous or carcinogenic- Prepare exhibits and scene diagrams for trial- Work closely and effectively communicate with County Attorney regarding evidence exhibits and testimony- Process crime scene evidence with accuracy and attention to detail- Learn and use various methods and techniques of collecting and preserving evidence- Complete accurate, detailed and grammatically correct reports- Work under highly emotional conditions which are averse to sight, smell and touch- Recognize emergency, dangerous or hazardous situations- Exercise sound judgment and respond appropriately to emergency situations- Maintain accurate inventory and records- Follow prescribed procedures when handling materials classified as biohazards- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public- Work safely and support the culture of workplace safety- Follow written and verbal instructions- Communicate effectively verbally and in writingCoconino County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.