Crime Scene Investigator

Military, Veterans and Diverse Job Seekers; West Palm Beach (FL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of West Palm Beach seeks a dedicated crime scene investigator to join its investigations team. You will conduct scene investigations, photograph and record scenes, and preserve evidence for lab processing, with emphasis on fingerprint work and documentation.

Responsibilities include testifying in court, maintaining digital image files, and supporting training as needed. Candidates should be prepared for shift work, including nights and weekends, and must meet state qualifications.

Qualifications

• Must have foundational knowledge of fingerprint classification and evidence handling.
• Experience with crime scene processing and photography is required or highly preferred.
• Proficiency with standard office software and reporting is expected.

Responsibilities

• Conduct crime scene investigations and document findings via photos and video.
• Collect and preserve physical evidence; process evidence in the lab as needed.
• Testify in depositions, hearings, and trials and maintain case records.
• Maintain digital image files, logs, and related records; attend trainings.
• Operate and verify equipment for proper functioning and support shift coverage.

Skills

Fingerprint classification

Crime scene processing

Crime scene photography

Alternate light source ops

Digital photography

Camera operation

Data entry

MS Word

MS Excel

MS Outlook

Education

AS Degree or higher in Forensic Science or closely related field

High school graduate or equivalency diploma

Tools

Mainframe system

Job description

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Conduct crime scene investigations.
• Photograph and video record crime scenes and vehicle collision scenes.
• Collect and preserve physical evidence at crime scenes. Processes evidence once taken back to lab.
• Process, and file fingerprints. Search fingerprint files. Utilize fingerprint powders and chemical treatments during the processing of evidence for latent prints.
• Maintain digital Master image and back up image files and logs.
• Attend autopsies to observe, photograph and collect evidence.
• Photograph and fingerprint prisoners.
• Prepare and maintain related records and reports.
• Testify in depositions, hearings and trials.
• Test and maintain equipment to ensure it is working properly.
• Participate in training. May also conduct training.
• Perform all functions and responsibilities according to the, Palm Beach County Code of Ethics and Florida State Statutes 112.313.
• Fosters positive employee relations and employee morale on a City-wide basis.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be a high school graduate or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.
• Must have at least one (1) year professional, verifiable experience in crime scene investigation OR Must possess an AS Degree or higher in Forensic Science or closely related field with at least 6-months professional, verifiable experience in crime scene investigation.
• Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License, with a good driving record.
• Knowledge of fingerprint classification, crime scene processing, crime scene photography, reconstruction of shooting scenes, and alternate light source operations.
• Knowledge of modern procedures and methods employed in crime detection and investigations.
• Knowledge of rules of evidence, particularly with reference to fingerprints, latent prints and other personal identifications. Skill in digital photography including,, camera operation, image uploading, storage and printing.
• Ability to successfully complete specialized training courses as required.
• Ability to maintain fingerprint card files.
• Ability to express yourself clearly and intelligently in writing and while testifying in court.
• Requires demonstrated ability to effectively utilize personal computer and office software such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Outlook.
• Ability to enter and retrieve data accurately into the City's mainframe system or other required application.
• Ability to manage and prioritize routine, specialized and complex assignments and problems utilizing knowledge acquired through prior education, training, and experience.
• Ability to adapt to an evolving and continually changing environment.
• Punctuality and regular attendance are essential functions of this position, as well as working mandatory shift hours, including days, nights, holidays, weekends, unscheduled overtime and periodic call outs. Hours may change with short notice to allow maximum crime scene availability.