Latent Print Forensic Specialist

County of Santa Clara; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office is seeking a Criminalist I in the Sheriff’s Identification Unit, focusing on latent and tenprint examinations to support investigations and legal proceedings.

Under close supervision, the incumbent will perform forensic friction ridge analyses, biometric identifications, and prepare technical reports. They may provide expert testimony and assist in field investigations as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in natural or applied science or a related field.
• Possess minimum qualifications defined by the laboratory's accrediting body.
• Possession of a valid California driver's license prior to appointment.

Responsibilities

• Perform friction ridge analysis and evaluate evidence submissions.
• Conduct biometric identification examinations and AFIS submissions.
• Document processes and generate clear technical reports.
• Provide expert testimony in court regarding fingerprint methods and conclusions.
• Assist with field investigations and preserve evidence.

Skills

Friction ridge analysis

Biometric identification

Forensic reporting

Expert testimony

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in science

Tools

Microscopy

Chromatography

Mass spectrometry

DNA typing

Digital processing

Job description

The Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office is seeking a Criminalist I in the Sheriff’s Identification Unit, focusing on latent and tenprint examinations to support investigations and legal proceedings.

Under close supervision, the incumbent will perform forensic friction ridge analyses, biometric identifications, and prepare technical reports. They may provide expert testimony and assist in field investigations as needed.