Forensic Investigator

Under general direction, performs a variety of advanced technical duties and responsibilities involved in identifying, collecting, and processing evidence from crime scenes. Ensures the integrity of evidence through proper chain of custody, prepares detailed technical reports, documents crime scene investigation activities, and provides expert testimony in court. Provides technical assistance to other department personnel, trains others in crime scene processing and procedures, and ensures compliance with forensic standards, policy, and all pertinent local, state, and federal laws.

The following functions are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

• Reports to crime scenes; locates, collects, and preserves evidence and documents crime scene investigations.
• Maintains chain of custody for all evidence. Receives, stores, and releases property and evidence obtained from crime scenes; transfers evidence, while maintaining integrity and compliance with all applicable laws, to and from the lab and/or storage.
• Processes evidence collected at crime scenes for other forms of physical, biological, and trace evidence.
• Uses a variety of methods to interpret, analyze, and report findings on the evidence collected. May include, but is not limited to, use of Leica or other digital scanners, videotaping, photography, alternative light sources, trajectory rod probing and stringing, bodily fluid and gunshot residue collection, chemical processes including fuming, etching, and latent development techniques.
• Writes detailed reports of crime scene processing and findings, including technical processing and any other work related to the processing for court documentation.
• Testifies as an expert witness in State or Local courts with regard to crime scene cases and expertise in the forensic field.
• Maintains and updates forensic policy and procedure manuals; coordinates, organizes, and provides personnel training in the areas of crime scene preservation and evidence recognition.
• Maintains adequate supplies of necessary materials and equipment in both the lab and forensic vehicles; contacts vendors regarding prices of materials and equipment; orders needed supplies and maintains records of related transactions.
• Provides training on investigative techniques for in-house staff, students, and other law enforcement agencies.
• Performs routine safety and maintenance checks of forensic vehicles and equipment.
• Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, with a variety of audiences.
• Maintains prompt and regular attendance.
• Sound judgement and attention to detail.
• Must perform any other tasks or functions deemed necessary to the daily operations of the employer or as the situation requires.
• This position and technology are always evolving. Therefore, employer reserves the right to modify this job description as necessary.

THE ABOVE LIST OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE AND MAY BE SUPPLEMENTED AS NECESSARY BY THE EMPLOYER.

Working Conditions:

• Prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, and stooping in the performance of daily activities.
• Duties may require walking on uneven and slippery surfaces, climbing ladders, working outdoors in all weather conditions, around loud noise, moving vehicles, and potential travel in a helicopter.
• Ability to lift, drag, and push objects up to 50 pounds.
• Grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine motor skill coordination.
• Near, far, and color vision; acute hearing.
• Handling of contraband, contaminated items, and biological samples.
• Exposure to biological hazards, chemical agents, hazardous materials, and other potentially toxic substances.
• Subject to highly emotional traumatic crime scenes, potential for physical threats, verbal abuse, and other stressful situations.
• Subject to handling highly sensitive information requiring discretion, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.
• Handling of graphic and emotionally disturbing material requiring emotional resilience and highest levels of professionalism.
• Must wear and maintain appropriate protective equipment (PPE).
• Availability for rotational on-call duty, responses during irregular work hours, mandatory overtime, and temporary shift relief as required for the daily operations of
  the unit.

A combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. The incumbent must have knowledge of:

• Procedures and techniques of evidence collection and preservation, including fingerprint lifting and classification techniques.
• Forensic science principles, standards, and practices.
• Basic principles of photography and video camera operation.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Relevant tools, software, and technology used within the forensic field.
• Familiarity with police forensic standards, practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Knowledge of relevant tools, software, and/or technology used within the role.
• Understanding of organizational policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Principles and practices of excellent customer service.
• Knowledge of safe work practices, OSHA regulations, and workplace health and safety procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
• Successful candidates will be required to pass a drug screening, fingerprint screening, physical examination and a background investigation.

Ability to:

• Recognize, collect, assemble, analyze, and preserve evidence in accordance with pertinent laws.
• Interpret and apply laws and regulations of the City and Police Department.
• Operate specialized equipment and perform the specialized techniques used in the collection, analysis, and preservation of evidence.
• Operate photography and video equipment as well as enhance photographs and video documents.
• Interpret and apply Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
• Prepare clear and concise reports and communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Testify in court on the collection, preservation, maintenance, and chain of custody of evidence.
• Maintain confidentiality of privileged and extremely sensitive information.
• Use a personal computer, telephone, and other electronic devices to access information, complete documentation, and communicate effectively.
• Understand and follow both oral and written instructions accurately.
• Identify issues, evaluate data, and implement effective solutions.
• Manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Work collaboratively with others in a team environment.
• Perform tasks accurately and thoroughly, with a focus on quality.

Experience:

• Two (2) years of responsible technical experience related to law enforcement, forensic science, or evidence management.

• High School Diploma, GED supplemented by college level coursework in criminology, biology, chemistry or a related field.

• Possession of, and continuously throughout employment, an appropriate, valid California Class "C" Driver's License.

• International Association for Identification (IAI)
• California Division of the International Association for Identification (CADIAI)
• Southern California Association of Fingerprint Officers (SCAFO)
• American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS)

• International Crime Scene Certification as a Crime Scene Technician, Crime Scene Analyst, or Senior Crime Scene Analyst
• International Crime Scene Certification Forensic Photographer

Successful candidates will be required to pass a drug screening, fingerprint screening, physical examination, and a background investigation. If you were referred to this position by a current Fontana Police Department employee, please use the link below to download the Applicant Referral Form. This form must be completed and submitted to the Human Resources Department at the time that your application is submitted. Submit completed forms to or to the Human Resources Office. Forms received after the position closes will not be accepted.

Click to download the Applicant Referral Form.

Required Question