Police Latent Technician

An employee in this position performs work of marked difficulty in the processing of evidence for latent impressions. Work involves chemically processing items for fingerprint evidence and testifying as an expert witness. Work is continually reviewed for quality and performance.

An employee in this position works with other Latent Section personnel. Work is performed under the supervision of the Fingerprint Unit Supervisor.

Per the Crime Laboratorys Collective Bargaining Agreement, new hires with no experience shall start at the base of corresponding pay range for their position.

• Inputs case information into the Laboratory Information ManagementSystem (LIMS).
• Properly documents chain ofcustody.
• Properly documents the return of evidence to submitting agencies and/or property control.
• Provides direction to officers and detectives as to procedures for properly packaging evidence and completion of evidencereceipts.
• May provide centralized ordering for Fingerprint, Crime Scene and officesupplies.
• Chemically processes evidence items submitted in the Latent Section.
• Documents and preserves sufficient ridge detail for latent examination.
• Prepares chemical compounds and powders needed to process Latent Section evidence.
• Completes written reports, as needed, which are detailed, accurate and factual, and completed in a timely fashion.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness on chemical processing.
• Performs technical and administrative reviews of documentation, when applicable.
• Maintains Safety Data Sheets and chemical/equipment logs for the Latent Section Laboratory.
• Participates in projects and presentations, as required.
• Successfully participates in proficiency testing and continuing education.
• Read relevant journals and attend training to keep current in the field.
• Investigate, validate, and implement new technologies.
• Attend relevant meetings and classes.
• Maintains and complies with all St. Louis County Police Department Written Directives and Latent Section Policies and Procedures.
• May perform other similar or related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities :

• Knowledge of crime laboratory procedures in the handling of physical evidence for chemical processing of evidence.
• Knowledge in the use of safety equipment (i.e. protective eye wear, latex gloves, lab coats, etc.).
• Ability to communicate in English clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Skill to handle any physical evidence in a safe manner using laboratory policies and safety procedures.
• Ability to handle safety procedures in an emergency situation (i.e. chemical spills, fires, exposures, etc.).
• Ability to converse with law enforcement officials, attorneys and the general public in a tactful manner over the telephone and in person.
• Ability to learn and operate LIMS, and other office and laboratory equipment.
• Ability to maintain a high degree of professional integrity while dealing with extremely sensitive information or evidence.
• Ability to testify in court as an expert witness.
• Ability to make sound decisions pertaining to laboratory office procedures involving the handling of evidence in the absence of a Latent Print Examiner or Supervisor.
• Ability to transport, store, and retrieve articles or evidence from the proper storage facilities.
• Skill in processing items of evidence for sufficient ridge detail.
• Skill and ability to successfully complete assigned proficiency tests.
• Must possess initiative and be able to prioritize duties to meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of crime scene techniques and procedures as they relate to obtaining latent evidence.
• Ability to apply appropriate methods and procedures in processing latent evidence.

Physical/Visual Activities or Demands :

• Standing in an upright position for extended periods.
• Sitting, talking, walking, grasping.
• Clarity of vision at 20 inches or less with the ability to bring objects into sharp focus.
• Position may require the employee to be occasionally or indirectly exposed to biological and chemical hazards.

Requirements :

• Ability to pass a visual acuity test with a score of 80 or higher.

Visual acuity refers to your ability to discern the shapes and details of the things you see.

Training and Experience :

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Baccalaureate or advanced degree in a natural science or forensic science. Previous relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a Baccalaureate degree.

AGE REQUIREMENT : Eighteen (18) years of age at the time of appointment. RESIDENCY : No residency requirement. Must be a citizen of the United States or must possess a valid work permit and must submit an application for United States citizenship when eligible. EDUCATION REQUIREMENT : Educational requirements and skills will be determined by the position classification. ARREST RECORD : Must be free from conviction of a Felony. A Class "A" Misdemeanor conviction will be cause for immediate dismissal from the process, unless otherwise directed by the Chief of Police. MILITARY : Must not have a "Dishonorable" discharge or "Bad Conduct" discharge if having served in the military. All "Other Than Honorable" discharges will be reviewed on an individual basis.

COMPETITIVE SELECTION PROCESS
Under the regulations of the Police Department, all appointments to the St. Louis County Police Department are made on the basis of a continuously open, competitive hiring process conducted under the supervision of the Personnel Services Unit. Each applicant must successfully complete each stage of the selection process before becoming eligible to proceed to the next step.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER : The Board of Police Commissioners resolved that subject to all applicable State and Federal statutory or judicial exemptions, all qualified applicants for employment and/or advancement, whether commissioned or civilian, shall be given equal opportunity for consideration, selection, appointment and retention, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or political affiliation.