Forensic Laboratory Investigator - Latent Prints

Oakland County; Pontiac (MI); On-site; USD 86,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Oakland County seeks a Deputy Sheriff/Forensic Scientist to perform evidence examination in a dedicated laboratory setting onsite. You will examine, test, and analyze evidence, prepare clear reports, and provide objective scientific findings to support investigations and judicial proceedings.

The role requires adherence to quality standards, court testimony, and willingness to work varying shifts. The county offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, with opportunities to grow

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED completed.
• Either 2 years’ full-time forensic lab experience or 2 years police work with a forensic course.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute.
• No disqualifying criminal record and valid driver’s license.
• International transcripts require degree evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic analysis using established lab methods.
• Maintain complete documentation of examinations.
• Prepare reports and expert opinions.
• Testify as an expert witness in court.
• Operate county software to document findings.
• Maintain equipment and participate in ongoing training.

Skills

Forensic analysis

Court testimony

Documentation

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree substitution

Tools

AFIS

IBIS

Job description

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents. When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit: https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

All Ways Moving Forward.

General Summary

$86,003-$104,537 This position is onsite.

What You’ll Do

• Examine, test, and analyze evidence using established scientific and laboratory methods.
• Evaluate and interpret analytical results to determine the identification and comparability of evidence.
• Prepare clear, accurate written reports and professional opinions documenting examination findings.
• Maintain accuracy, objectivity, and proper scientific practices throughout the examination and analysis process.
• Testify as an expert witness in court regarding laboratory procedures, findings, and conclusions.
• Utilize County and department-specific software and systems to document findings and complete assignments.
• Work assigned day, afternoon, or midnight shifts, which may include weekends and periodic on‑call responsibilities for emergencies.

Why You’ll Love It

• Apply your scientific knowledge to meaningful, real‑world forensic investigations.
• Perform detailed laboratory work where accuracy and analytical thinking make a direct impact.
• Develop specialized expertise while working with a variety of evidence and scientific methods.
• Contribute objective scientific findings that support investigations and the administration of justice.

Minimum Qualifications

• Be a high school graduate or have a certificate of successful completion of the General Educational Development (G.E.D.) Test.
• Have completed one (1) of the following requirements: a. Have at least two (2) years of full‑time work experience as a forensic laboratory specialist; OR b. Have successfully completed a course in forensic identification techniques such as: latent fingerprinting, firearms, physical matches, blood spatter interpretation or related area and have at least two (2) years of full‑time experience in police work.
• NOTE: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Biology, Chemistry, Bio‑Chemistry or related field, may substitute for the requirement listed in 2. above.
• NOTE: Applicants possessing transcripts from a college or university outside of the United States will be required to provide documentation of degree equivalency from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (http://naces.org/members.html). The degree evaluation will be required for application processing.
• Have not been convicted of a violation of criminal law. (Criminal law generally includes all offenses except traffic law, conservation law and liquor law. In general, conviction for a violation of criminal law is automatically disqualifying.)
• Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license. Out of Country driver’s license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
• Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, required for this classification.
• Successfully complete the one (1) year probationary period.

Special Requirements

• Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license.
• A field investigation will be conducted covering an evaluation of employment, school, home, criminal, military, or other personal records. Any conviction or convictions for moving traffic violations, accidents, non‑moving traffic violations, or violations of other laws will be reviewed by the Sheriff’s Office before an applicant can be appointed. Information obtained during the background investigation will be considered in the hiring decision. Convictions of the Domestic Violence Statute will be a disqualifying factor. Shall submit a DNA sample for inclusion into the DNA Staff Index.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Conducts forensic analysis/examination using established laboratory procedures.
• Maintains complete documentation of examination/analysis conducted.
• Writes technical reports and opinions entailing the results from examination/analyses conducted.
• Maintains strict chain of custody and preserves the integrity of evidence in all cases.
• Appears in court, rendering expert testimony regarding laboratory procedures, results, and conclusions.
• Participates in a proficiency testing program.
• Maintains and performs minor repairs on equipment.
• Participates in continuing education and training programs.
• Conducts peer/technical and administrative reviews of laboratory reports to ensure conformance to approved standards and the adequacy of the results for forensic purposes.
• Follows the laboratory quality assurance program as well as laboratory safety procedures to ensure the integrity of analytical testing and results and contributes suggestions for improvements.
• Performs other related duties as required or requested.
• Participates in providing technical training as needed.
• Processes crime scenes for evidence and documents scene with specialized equipment/software.
• Attends autopsies to photograph subject and collect evidence.
• Operates Automated Identification Systems such as A.F.I.S. (Automated Fingerprint Identification System or I.B.I.S. (Integrated Ballistics Identification System) by entering and retrieving data from a terminal.
• Participates in laboratory audits.
• Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
• Ability to use basic motor skills required in the operation of typical laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle and/or be a passenger.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a typical Forensic Laboratory environment and at crime scenes. Some assignments may be performed in an outdoor environment with exposure to heat, cold and other weather elements. May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile or bus.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

Union* BU09 - Deputy Sheriff Association: Corrections & Court Services (OCDSA) *If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.

At Oakland County, we offer a stable and supportive work environment, competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, professional development, and generous education assistance program. We value the dedication and hard work of our team and our commitment to the communities we serve - it's at the heart of our success. We're always seeking new ways to enhance our workplace and foster a culture of growth, inclusion, and innovation. We believe that our people are our greatest asset, and our future depends on the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents of our team. Join us on our mission to keep Oakland County a vibrant place to live, work, and play.