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County of Humboldt

Forensic Specialist I/II - Sheriff's Office

County of Humboldt, Eureka, California, us, 95502


FORENSIC SPECIALIST I/II

Sheriff's DepartmentWhen you work for the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, you aren’t just another employee, you are family. Our family is growing and we want YOU to join!We are looking for people who like to stay busy, can multi-task and have excellent communication skills while still being able to understand and maintain confidentiality standards.What You'll Do:

Examine crime scenes for evidence; record, analyze, and preserve crime scene evidence; document crime scenes using various methods.Prepare written reports and record of duties performed during cases.Interpret the meaning of evidence, calculate trajectories, prepare crime scene diagrams, record measurements, and interpret blood spatters.Perform digital forensic evidence extractions and analyses on cell phones, tablets, and other media devices.Operate and maintain equipment for lab and field use.Appear in court as an expert in fingerprint testimony, photography, digital examinations, and to document the chain of custody and correct storage of evidence; books and processes evidence for later court presentation.A typical schedule for these positions is Monday - Friday, 8 hours days.

Where You'll Do It:

This position is located at the Humboldt County Courthouse and employees will regularly use a county vehicle to travel to perform work.

Supplemental Information:

PLEASE NOTE: The successful candidate for this position will be required to undergo a detailed background investigation.

DEFINITIONUnder general supervision, performs a variety of complex technical tasks related to the collection, processing, and preservation of crime scene evidence; and performs related duties as assigned.SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISEDReceives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.CLASS CHARACTERISTICSForensic Specialist I:

This is the entry-level classification in the Forensic Specialist series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine crime scene evidence collection and preservation duties. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently.Forensic Specialist II:

This is the journey-level classification in the Forensic Specialist series. Positions at this level are fully competent to perform the full range of crime scene evidence collection and preservation duties, working independently and exercising judgment and initiative.Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions. Some duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity for entry-level (I Level) positions.Examines crime scenes for evidence such as DNA, trace evidence, digital evidence, and weapons.Interprets the meaning of evidence, calculates trajectories, prepares crime scene diagrams, records measurements, and interprets blood spatters.Prepares written reports and records of duties performed during cases; records, analyzes, and preserves crime scene evidence; documents crime scenes using various methods such as sketching, photography, and laser scanning; maintains logs of sites attended.Photographs crime scenes and a variety of evidence, such as property damage, victims, shoeprints, autopsies, and stolen property at various investigation sites.Processes crime scenes for latent fingerprints using appropriate methods; fingerprints suspects and other individuals; performs fingerprint analysis to compare fingerprint records to latent fingerprints from crime scenes.Collects, receives, and stores evidence from crime scenes, victims, and other agencies; maintains precise records of property transactions.Prepares crime scene sketches and enlargements for detective analysis and court presentations using specialized equipment.Performs digital forensic evidence extractions and analyses on cell phones, tablets, and other media devices.Operates and maintains equipment for lab and field use; conducts serial number restorations; conducts aerial crime scene photography.Appears in court as an expert in fingerprint testimony and digital examinations.Develops and maintains ongoing training for Deputy Sheriffs regarding basic evidence collection and crime scene documentation.Consults with deputies, detectives, and investigators regarding evidence to be submitted for analyses.Performs related duties as assigned.The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Knowledge of:Law enforcement organization, activities, terminology, and regulations.Procedures and techniques of evidence collection and processing, including maintenance of the chain of evidence.Advanced fingerprint collection, classification, and comparison techniques.Safe work methods and safety regulations pertaining to the work.Principles of digital video and photographic equipment usage.Applicable local, state, and federal laws and ordinances related to evidence collection.Techniques for providing a high level of customer service.The structure and content of the English language, including rules of composition and grammar.Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions.Ability to:Independently examine, collect, and preserve crime scene evidence.Collect latent fingerprints and match to computer or inked print files.Determine the appropriate analytical tests needed for evaluation.Coordinate activities with a variety of personnel and agencies.Operate a DSLR camera and associated equipment.Prepare clear and concise reports and documentation.Safely handle dangerous substances and firearms.Exercise independent judgment and decision making.Communicate effectively with a variety of individuals.Use computer systems and software applications relevant to work performed.Establish and maintain positive working relationships.EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:Equivalent to an associate degree in forensic science or a related field. A bachelor’s degree is desirable.andLevel I:

Either one (1) year of experience in handling and storage of evidence in a law enforcement setting or one (1) year in sworn law enforcement.Level II:

Two (2) years of experience equivalent to Forensic Specialist I with the County of Humboldt.Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon application.Specialized licenses and certificates may be required within one year of hire.HOW TO APPLYA complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the county’s automated application system at

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca .Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess.SELECTION PROCEDUREThe county utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered most qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination.EMPLOYEE PERKSFor more information about County benefits, visit our benefits webpage:

https://humboldtgov.org/2492/Employee-Benefits .OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSIONThe County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day.POLICY OF NONDISCRIMINATIONThe County of Humboldt does not discriminate based on mental or physical disability in the admission or access to, treatment or employment in, its programs or activities.

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