Forensic Science Specialist

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under the general direction of the Assistant Forensic Science Supervisor, or designee, performs technical work of average to advanced difficulty in criminal identification matters; photography, processing for latent fingerprints, collection and preservation of evidence. Duties are accomplished with a degree of independence and at a level of responsibility where the member must exercise good judgment and individual initiative in the performance of assigned duties. A variety of clerical and equipment maintenance tasks are performed in connection with the position. Work is reviewed through observation and results obtained. Shift work is required and subject to call-out 24 hours a day.

A member in this job classification spends at least 65 percent of their time performing duties that involve the collection examination, documentation, collection, preservation, preparation or analysis of human tissues or fluids or physical evidence having potential biological, chemical or radiological hazard or contamination, or uses chemicals, processes, or materials that may have carcinogenic or health-damaging properties in the analysis of such evidence in accordance with F.S. 121.0515.

Supervises Others: No

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate Degree in Forensic Science, a Forensic Science field or closely related field
• Or Certificate in the Forensic Science field
• One (1) year related experience
• Knowledge of photography, fingerprint development, evidence handling, and report writing preferred
• Successfully complete the forensics written examination
• Must possess a valid Florida driver's license

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of methods used in locating, collecting, and preserving physical evidence and the use of such evidence in establishing guilt or innocence
• Knowledge of and competency in fingerprinting and modern latent print processing techniques and procedures
• Knowledge of and competency in police photography
• Knowledge of and competency in modern criminal investigation methods and criminal identification techniques
• Ability to give qualifying testimony in the field of fingerprinting, photography, latent fingerprint development and collection and preservation of evidence
• Ability to successfully complete the Crime Scene Academy, Field Training, and Evaluation Program
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions
• Ability to express oneself clearly, concisely, and effectively both orally and in writing
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills
• Ability to perform all functions of the job classification without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace

Physical Abilities

• The physical abilities listed below are requirements to perform the essential functions and responsibilities.
• Visual acuity of 20/30 vision standard in each eye; if corrective lenses must be used to satisfy 20/30 vision standard, uncorrected vision should be no worse than 20/100 in each eye. Must be able to properly identify and differentiate colors
• Hearing acuity, single hearing levels should not exceed 25 decibels at either 500, 1000, or 2000 Hz nor exceed 30 decibels at 3000 Hz frequencies in each ear
• Ability to climb stairs, steps, and expandable ladders, while carrying necessary equipment
• Operate motor vehicles in a safe and efficient manner, day or night, in compliance with all state laws and regulations regarding operation and licensure
• Process crime scenes and mix chemicals while wearing a full face respirator
• Sit up to 7 hours per day
• Stand up to 8 hours per day
• Walk up to 8 hours per day
• Drive up to 4 hours per day
• Occasionally lift up to 75 lbs.
• Continuously reach
• Frequently bend, crawl, squat, climb, kneel and twist

Working Environment

A member may be exposed to a wide range of any of the following conditions, which may be unpleasant and uncomfortable:

o Wetness (water) from high humidity at night, fog, scenes processed in wet areas

o Slippery walking surfaces due to water at fire, crash scenes, roofs of structures, any scene processed in rainy/damp conditions

o Debris from broken glass, fire, roof accidents, uneven terrain, natural disasters, and/or overhead structures

o Frequent close contact with other forensic science specialists/peers, supervisors, citizens, arrested subjects, and deceased bodies

o The need for flexibility in limited service locations, attics, crawlspaces, inside and under vehicles

o Loud noise at service locations, to include, but not limited to, crash scenes, construction sites, detention facilities, alarms/sirens and/or generator use

o Possibility of burns due to service at fire scenes, crash scenes, and/or chemicals used in advanced crime scene procedures

o Constant fingerprint dusting powders and dust and dirt associated with outdoor service locations

o Pollen and insect and animal bites at any outdoor service location

o Toxic chemicals used in advanced crime scene processing, containers formerly used to store/transport narcotics or evidence from arson scenes

o Fumes of decomposing human or animal remains

o Frequent handling of evidence suspected of being exposed to the Hepatitis, AIDS virus, humans suspected of having Tuberculosis or Meningitis, and being present at scenes where there is a great deal of blood shed

Applicants must be tobacco/nicotine-free during length of employment.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office strives to provide our employees with the best benefits possible. Some of the benefits are Annual Leave (120 hours), Health Insurance, Wellness Incentives, and Education Assistance Program.

The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is an EEO/ADA employer and is committed to being a drug free workplace.

TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE: https://www.pinellassheriff.gov

Any questions can be directed to Human Resources at 727-582-6208 or employment@pcsonet.com