Job description
Crime Scene Technicians perform specialized, technical work gathering, processing and preserving evidence at crime scenes in support of law enforcement activities. Examples of work include but are not limited to detecting, collecting, preserving, packaging, and transporting evidence; processing for latent fingerprints; performing forensic photography and producing crime scene diagrams. Crime Scene Technicians also prepare comprehensive written reports and testify in courts of law. Crime Scene Technicians are subject to standby and call-out assignments and work a variety of shifts and days of the week. Position requires lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds, walking, standing, sitting, pushing/pulling, balancing, climbing, kneeling, bending, stooping and dragging. Incumbents will be required to use a respirator and personal protective equipment when working around hazardous chemicals and evidence that may be biohazardous or carcinogenic.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from high school or equivalent and one of the following:
- Associate Degree in police science, law enforcement, photography or a related discipline. (Verification of college transcripts will be required later in the process.)
- A minimum of three years of paid, full time, continuous experience conducting crime scene investigations and performing lab processing/analysis of evidence for a law enforcement agency.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
A Bachelor's degree with significant course work in photography, chemistry, physical or natural science is highly desirable (verification of college transcripts will be required later in the process).
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Valid Washington State Driver's License at time of appointment with maintenance thereafter or evidence of equivalent mobility.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:
- Respond to and participate in crime scene investigations including searching for, identifying and evaluating physical evidence
- Perform a variety of tasks in evaluating crime scenes, photographing and lifting fingerprints, obtaining suspect and elimination prints; documenting crime scenes with photography, sketches and diagrams
- Process evidence for fingerprints; process and recover fingerprints using various methods including powders, chemicals, adhesives, tapes, light sources, digital photography
- Prepare casts of footwear, footprints and tool marks
- Collect, preserve and maintain integrity of evidence in the field and in the laboratory; ensure accuracy of information received; properly package, store and secure evidence; maintain chain of custody
- Process items to locate and recover trace evidence
- Knowledge of pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations related to the classification, collection and preservation of evidence
- Knowledge of the latest methods and techniques of latent fingerprint collection and processing
- Deal effectively with the public
- Work harmoniously and professionally with department personnel, representatives of other law enforcement agencies and other public or private agencies
- Use sophisticated chemical, physical, optical and computerized techniques of scientific analysis in the performance of job duties
- Operate Forensic Services van to respond to crime scenes
SELECTION PROCESS & SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to take an online test tentatively scheduled to be held in January 2023. Applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be notified by email of the date and time for the online test.
Applicants must pass the examination process to be placed on the eligible list for interview and hiring consideration. Virtual interviews are an option but candidates in the final stages of the hiring process may be required to travel to the City of Tacoma in order to complete the end stages of the recruitment process for this position.
This position requires an extensive background check to include a polygraph, medical and psychological exam.
This position is covered by a Labor Agreement between the City of Tacoma and Local 117.
NOTE: Applicants who qualify for veteran's preference, please attach a copy of your DD214 at the time of application.
Failure to follow all instructions may result in disqualification. We prefer e-mail for all communications, unless you do not have an e-mail account. This allows us the ability to send you information quickly and efficiently.
Communication from the City of Tacoma:
You are responsible for checking your e-mail regularly for any information coming from Human Resources and the Tacoma Police Department. Please allow your blockers to accept e-mail from the City of Tacoma. If we are unable to access or receive e-mail back undelivered, your materials may not be processed further.
The online application system requires you to enter a substantial amount of information. Be prepared to spend at least an hour entering information. In order for your application materials to be considered, all information must be submitted by the closing date and time listed on this job announcement.
For assistance with the NEOGOV application process, or questions regarding this job announcement, call the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 before 4:00 pm of the closing date of the job announcement.
City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Tacoma's diversity is its greatest asset. Tacoma embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. Communities of color and immigrant communities are fundamental to Tacoma's entrepreneurial spirit, workforce, and long-term success. In Tacoma, equity and empowerment are top priorities, meaning that all Tacoma residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. One of our goals is for the City of Tacoma workforce to reflect the community it serves. We actively work to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Our goal is for Tacoma to be an inclusive and equitable place to live, work, and play.
The City of Tacoma is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workplace. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.
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