FORENSIC SUPERVISOR

About the role

The Torrance Police Department Forensic Identification Specialist Unit is responsible for providing comprehensive forensic and crime scene support to the Torrance Police Department. The unit conducts detailed crime scene documentation; collects and preserves physical evidence; performs fingerprint processing and comparison; and utilizes advanced forensic technologies to assist in criminal investigations. Forensic Identification Specialists work closely with detectives, patrol officers, and external agencies to ensure accurate, timely, and professional forensic services that uphold the highest standards of evidence integrity and investigative support.

Responsibilities

• Overseeing and coordinating the work of the Forensic Identification Specialist Unit within the Torrance Police Department.
• Supervising staff engaged in crime scene response, evidence collection, forensic processing, and specialized investigative support.
• Ensuring compliance with departmental procedures and forensic best practices.
• Providing technical guidance and training.
• Reviewing work for accuracy and quality.
• Aiding in the development and implementation of unit policies and operational standards.
• Serving as a subject-matter expert to investigators and management, supporting the integrity of forensic evidence and the effectiveness of criminal investigations.

Requirements

• Operates on a 4/10 schedule and is required to work weekends, evenings, holidays, and a rotating on-call schedule.
• Works in all weather conditions, laboratory, and general office settings.
• Physical demands include climbing, bending, lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects weighing up to 60lbs.
• May be exposed to blood-borne, air-borne pathogens, bodily fluids, various hazardous chemicals used to develop latent print impressions.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience: Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field; three years paid experience as a Forensic Identification Specialist or the equivalent at an accredited forensic laboratory, or law enforcement agency, participating in site investigations and laboratory analysis including two years working in a lead or supervisory capacity. Experience may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of four years' experience.
• Licenses and Certifications: Must possess a valid State of California Class C Driver's License.

How to Apply & Exam Process

Interested candidates must submit an online application and resume at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. Application submission will be accepted on a continuous basis until the position(s) is/are filled. First review of applications will be those received by Monday, July 27, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. If a sufficient number of qualified applications are received by the first review date, there is the possibility that the recruitment may close at that time.

Only those candidates who best meet the City and Department's needs will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of the following components:

• Panel Interview: Weighted 100% (Tentatively scheduled on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.)