Crime Scene Specialist

About the role

The position is responsible for providing crime scene specialist and investigation activities for public safety agencies throughout Marion County. Assists in the development and implementation of crime scene scientific programs; confers with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to coordinate work activities at scenes and/or in the laboratory. Provides preliminary analysis of collected crime scene evidence and expert testimony in court as needed. Ensures that the total work product meets all appropriate scientific, legal, and accreditation requirements. Trains new employees as assigned.

Responsibilities

• Provide forensic support in the identification, preservation, and collection of forensic evidence at crime scenes, including fingerprint processing, DNA collection/swabbing, and firearm evidence for crimes against persons such as homicides, suicides, rapes, and aggravated assaults.
• Ensure appropriate quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) methodologies are employed throughout their section of the laboratory, per accreditation guidelines.
• Assist supervisors in developing, implementing, and providing technical guidance to all employees within the laboratory, including QA/QC.
• Implement newly developed forensic and crime scene technologies.
• Review statistical data and ensure compliance with appropriate scientific, legal, and government regulations.
• Recommend modifications of practices to the section supervisor for operation of the section.
• Serve as liaison between IMCFSA and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure scientific and administrative support is provided.
• Conduct training for local agencies, including basic evidence technician courses, crime scene courses, and specialized forensic applications courses.
• Attend seminars, meetings, and conferences to incorporate new developments into laboratory casework.
• Present results of laboratory research at conferences and/or publish results in scientific journals.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminology, or related science courses.
• Five (5) years’ experience in crime scene processing or five (5) years law enforcement experience from a certified law enforcement academy. Experience in digital photography and alternative light sources may be used as a degree equivalent.
• Willingness and capability to complete an internal/external training program determined by the Crime Scene Specialist Supervisor and the Quality Assurance Program, and capable of completing additional specialized training as required.
• Must maintain proficiency through annual proficiency testing.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and familiarity with the sensitive and confidential nature of evidence management and examination.
• Ability to establish and set priorities according to time-sensitive information.
• Effective communication skills in oral, verbal, and written formats.
• Must attain Crime Scene Certification through the Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board within one year after completion of training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminology, or related science courses, in addition to meeting the minimum qualifications listed.

Working Conditions

Majority of work is performed in the field under a variety of weather conditions and locations. Some time may be spent in a standard office environment.