Criminal Research Specialist

There is only one city in the country that can say it is the Nation’s Capital – Washington, D.C. Given that distinction, The Metropolitan Police Department is the premiere law enforcement organization in the city. We receive over 22 million visitors a year, have almost 700,000 residents, and 21,000 private business. The Department consists of more than 4,200 members: approximately 3,550 sworn members and over 650 civilian employees. We are one of the most diverse and highly trained departments in the country. We have the honor of safeguarding and protecting not only our nation’s residents, but also people from all over the world.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) offers an attractive benefits package. The benefits package includes competitive compensation, health insurance, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, short and long term disability and life insurance, as well a strong retirement benefit and savings options. Employees are also eligible for our employer contributed 401a plan after one year of employment. Additional perks such as discounts on wireless carriers, gym memberships, amusement park tickets and much more! Additional information can be found at: DCHR Benefits

This position is located in the Homeland Security Bureau, Real Time Crime Center, Investigative Support Section.

This Criminal Research Specialist position is covered under the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) bargaining unit and you may be required to pay an agency fee through direct payroll deductions.

This incumbent will be responsible for the following:

• Research and obtain data and information from automated and manual resources and networked databases in direct support of investigations
• Receives, prioritizes and validates requests for investigative assistance and determines the appropriate procedure and protocols in order to initiate the collection and dissemination of the investigative information in a timely manner and designated format
• Summarizes, disseminates and/or exchanges investigative information to authorized personnel, law enforcement agencies and criminal information networks
• Maintains the proper security and confidentiality of all information created or encountered for the purpose of complying with federal and local laws and regulations concerning access to and dissemination of criminal information
• Communicates with field investigators and criminal intelligence officers via radio or telephone in an office setting to assist in identifying and locating suspects and potential witnesses, obtaining and providing information useful to investigators, such as surveillance data, criminal histories and places of residence and employment, etc., using various restricted access resources
• Assist in the initial investigation and tracking of GPS units that may assist in the identification and location of potential suspects and/or witnesses
• Review and dissemination of information from surveillance video tapes and audio records
• Monitor tip lines, obtain relevant information from outside agencies (OUC, DMV, etc.), conduct appropriate link analysis, reviews social media internet sites for potential investigative material, and review all information and intelligence to determine additional action
• Operates technologically advanced video systems and computer applications, including, but not limited to: CCTV (crime cameras), automated license plate readers (LPR), Shotspotter, JUSTIS, WALES II, NCIC, Columbo, Morpho Face, TLO, Cobalt, etc
• Prepares reports and other documents for detectives and investigators.
• May be required to testify in court.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• The position requires skill in problem solving and identification and resolution of conflicting information.
• Working knowledge The Jencks Act, Brady Material and related Federal, State (Maryland and Virginia) and local DC laws, rules and regulations that govern evidentiary material.
• Knowledge of legal terminology and legal forms.
• Knowledge of Department guidelines, current accepted management theory, techniques, and practices.
• Knowledge of effective communication skills necessary to convey sensitive and accurate information, build constructive working relationships to develop written reports.
• Ability to deal with demanding and uncooperative individuals.
• Skill to conduct research using various law enforcement and networked databases.
• Knowledge to prepare presentations and to conduct briefings for the Command staff on the results of work efforts.
• Knowledge to prioritize tasks with competing deadlines.
• Subject to testify in court.

Licensures, Certifications and other requirements

N/A

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Bachelor's Degree in a Criminal Justice or a related field is preferred.

Work Experience

Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to a least the (CS-09) grade level, or its non-District equivalent, gained from the public or private sector. Specialized experience is defined as experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position directly related to the position.

Work Environment

Work location is in an office environment. Work is sedentary and may require walking and standing in conjunction with travel and attendance at meeting and conferences away from the work site and carrying light items, such as laptops, papers, books, small parts, and driving an automobile.

Other Significant Factors

Promotion Potential: Promotional Potential to CS-Grade 12.

The Metropolitan Police Department is a 24-hour, 7 days a week operation. Your position is deemed “Essential” and subject to rotating shifts, to include weekends and holidays

This position is deemed as “Security Sensitive” pursuant to Chapter 4 of the D.C. Personnel Regulations, in addition to the general suitability screening and criminal background check (pre-employment and periodic), individuals may be subject to the following checks and tests: Traffic record check (as applicable);

• Pre-employment drug and alcohol test (as applicable);
• Consumer credit check (as applicable);
• Reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol test;
• Random drug and alcohol test;
• Return to duty or follow-up drug and alcohol test; and
• Post-accident or incident drug and alcohol test.

The incumbent is required to possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator’s permit.

The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer: all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, which is also prohibited. In addition, harassment based on any of the above-protected categories is prohibited.

Click here to review additional information Employee Disclosure & Information for Applicants