CRIME SCENE TECHNICIAN

GENERAL PURPOSE
Provide support to criminal investigations by performing routine and complex crime scene processing. Is responsible for the collection, preservation, processing, and submission of evidence using the latest techniques and equipment. Must prepare detailed reports on observations and activities related to the crime scene and activities related to post crime scene follow-up. Testifies in court regarding the findings and processing methods used at the scene. Performs all duties using independent judgment and maintain a high level of security and confidentiality.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Employee has no supervisory responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Responds to crime scenes under various and potentially extreme conditions to collect, preserve, and process physical evidence, such as latent fingerprints, hair, fibers blood, projectiles, shell casings, weapons, firearms, and tool and tire marks.
Prepares detailed evidence submission forms for use by laboratory personnel which outline specific tests to be performed on evidence.
Creates crime scene sketches and drawings.
Develops, photographs, and lifts latent prints found at crime scenes, or on items related to criminal cases, utilizing print enhancement chemicals, techniques, and photography equipment.
Identifies, photographs, collects, and preserves various types biological material for DNA evidence.
Prepares detailed narrative and technical reports for all activity and involvement for a crime scene and any post-crime scene processing follow-up.
Maintains detailed case files for evidence collected in each case.
Serve as a department representative when meeting with prosecuting attorneys and other law enforcement agencies; providing formal depositions regarding crime scene information and physical evidence.
Meets with various crime and forensics laboratory personnel to discuss crime scene data and testing methods utilized on evidence.
Transports evidence to and from crime scenes, other law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and crime laboratories.
Conducts chemical tests on blood, drugs, body fluids, fibers, etc., found at, or believed to be related to, crime scenes.
Extracts gunshot residue from victims, suspects, and inanimate objects at crime scenes, or believed to be related to crime scenes.
Conducts ballistic tests and analysis for firearms.
Operates a metal detector, hand and power tools, and other specialized equipment used to locate and process evidence.
Uses photography and video equipment to create visual and audio documentation of crime scenes.
Interprets evidence collected at crime scenes, in conjunction with law enforcement personnel, to develop a forensic evaluation of the suspect’s physical and behavioral characteristics.
Analyzes crime scene information, such as blood spatter patterns, to determine specific crime scene information.
Maintains a casebook/log of activity.
Operates a personal computer, laptop, and associated equipment, to maintain records and prepare reports.
Operates a City of Killeen Vehicle in performance of duties.
Must be able to respond to crime scenes/emergencies within a 30-minute response time.
May, as directed, conduct crime scene training for other police department personnel.
Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
1. 30 College Credit Hours in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, or a closely related field; or
2. Two years of experience in evidence collection and preservation; or
3. Equivalent combination of education and experience.
4. Specialized training in crime scene investigation and evidence handling preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
1. Must have basic skills and knowledge to process a crime scene.
2. Must have knowledge of evidence handling and management.
3. Working knowledge of photography equipment.
4. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
5. Ability to work in adverse conditions caused by environmental factors, contamination, and crime scene aftermath.
6. Ability to learn the applicable Texas laws, ordinances, and department rules and regulations.
7. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with subordinates, peers, government officials, and supervisors.
8. Ability to maintain confidential information.
9. Must be proficient with Microsoft Office and Windows Operating systems.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Must pass a thorough background investigation.
2. Must have a valid driver’s license by date of hire.
3. Must obtain and maintain a Texas driver’s license within 60 days of hire.
4. Must obtain Forensic and Crime Scene certifications and licenses within three years of hire.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Office machines, computers, police radios, forensic laboratory and field tools and instruments, digital cameras and equipment, metal detectors, firearms (ballistic testing) mobile crime scene van, and motor vehicles.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, talk, and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds and wear ballistic body armor protection (ballistic resistant vest/armor) while at a crime scene.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, true color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this position, the employee could frequently work in various outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. Bio-hazardous material, which could include deceased persons of various ages and in various stages of decomposition, will be handled using accepted safety practices, protective equipment, and tools. Employee may be exposed to hazardous materials/chemicals.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.