Collision Reconstructionist

Arizona-Department-of-Public-Safety; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arizona Department of Public Safety seeks an experienced Collision Reconstructionist to perform at-scene and follow-up investigations, analyze causation factors, and prepare detailed reports. This is a non-sworn, unarmed position with no arrest authority.

The role requires extensive experience in collision investigations, ability to testify as an expert, and the use of advanced reconstruction technologies.

Qualifications

• Ten years of police or related investigation experience with five years as a technical collision investigator.
• Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, physics, engineering or a physical science.
• Strong ability to analyze physical evidence and model collision dynamics.
• Knowledge of traffic laws and scene documentation.

Responsibilities

• Analyze evidence from collision scenes including marks, damage, and road conditions.
• Collect and review witness statements and testimonial evidence.
• Inspect scenes with 3D scanners or total stations and collect crash data.
• Prepare detailed reports and provide expert testimony in court.
• Collaborate with law enforcement and legal teams on investigations.
• Evaluate human factors and reconstruct collision sequences.

Skills

Collision reconstruction

Expert testimony

On-scene investigation

Photogrammetry

3D scanning

Evidence analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in mathematics/physics/engineering

Tools

3D scanner

Total Station

Event Data Recorder

Diagramming software

Job description

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is seeking an experienced Collision Reconstructionist who will work under general supervision and be responsible for conducting specialized collision investigation and reconstruction. This is a non-sworn, unarmed position, with no arrest authority. Conducts collision at-scene and follow-up investigations, causation and contributing factor analysis, and completes detailed reports and court testimony. Provides investigative and expert support to Department employees and attorneys representing the Department. Performs related duties as assigned. This position is uncovered; the incumbent serves at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Public Safety.

Must successfully complete a background investigation.

• Analyzes physical evidence in or from the collision scene, including tire friction marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions.
• Collects, reviews, and analyzes witness statements and other testimonial evidence.
• Inspects, measures, and obtains crash data through photographs, videos, notes, the use of a 3D scanner or total station, Event Data Recorder technology, or any other means useful to the investigation.
• Utilizes computer simulations and animations to model collision scenarios and dynamics.
• Prepares detailed reports that outline findings and conclusions.
• Testifies in interviews, depositions, and court as expert witness to present findings.
• Collaborates with law enforcement and legal teams to support investigations.
• Examines vehicle components to identify mechanical failures or defects.
• Determines the speed and dynamics of vehicles involved based on evidence.
• Reconstructs human occupant kinematics.
• Reconstructs the sequence of collision events leading to the collision.
• Conducts field investigations and site visits to gather additional data.
• Uses photogrammetry and other technologies to create accurate representations of the collision scene.
• Evaluates human factors, such as driver behavior and reaction times, influencing the collision.
• Stays updated with the latest advances in collision reconstruction techniques and technology.

Knowledge of:

1. business English, spelling, grammar and punctuation required to produce and proofread complex written documents.
2. records management systems (automated and manual files).
3. physics and engineering principles related to motion, force, energy, and momentum to analyze collision dynamics.
4. state and federal traffic laws and regulations.
5. scene analysis, evidence collection, and documentation.
6. downloading and interpreting event data recorder information.
7. vehicle, environment, and human analysis in pre-impact, impact, and post-impact phases.
8. total station, unmanned aerial system, or 3d scanner use and data interpretation.
9. computer-aided diagramming and animation and simulation software.
10. human behavior and perception-reaction times, visibility, and driver decision-making.
11. collision and crime scene documentation, processing, and evidence collection.
12. Traffic Incident Management (TIM) system principles.

Skill in:

1. the use of a computer-aided diagramming software.
2. the use of measuring instruments, such as 3d scanners, unmanned aerial systems, and total stations.
3. the general use of computer hardware and software programs.
4. providing expert court testimony.
5. presenting complex information to a diverse audience.

Ability to:

1. work independently and as part of a team.
2. establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted during assignment.
3. communicate orally and in writing to present information in a logical and understandable format.
4. understand written and verbal instruction to complete assigned tasks accurately.
5. exercise good judgment in safeguarding confidential or sensitive information.
6. read, comprehend, and interpret written materials of simple to moderate complexity.
7. work with interruptions.
8. adapt to changing priorities.
9. organize, prioritize, and perform multiple tasks.
10. work within stringent deadlines to complete work assignments.
11. effectively communicate orally and in writing.
12. evaluate information, make decisions, and take appropriate action.

Requires ten (10) years of experience as a police officer with at least five (5) years of experience as a technical collision investigator or collision reconstructionist OR ten (10) years of experience as an automotive or insurance industry investigator, with at least five (5) years of experience as a technical collision investigator or collision reconstructionist OR three (3) years of experience as a civilian collision reconstructionist with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, physics, or engineering, or other physical science-based degree.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

Availability to work irregular hours and/or respond to emergency callouts on a 24-hour basis.

Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 75 pounds).

Physically able to inspect vehicles by going in, over, and beneath as required.

Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.

Ability to travel extensively throughout the State.

Must successfully complete a background investigation.