Forensic Technician I - Sheriff's Department

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The Forensic Technician I conducts forensic crime scene and evidence investigations. Primary responsibilities include the documentation of crime scenes and evidence using advanced digital cameras and other technologies; the development and collection of latent fingerprint evidence using powders, chemicals and forensic light sources; and the detection and collection of physical and biological evidence. Results of work are used for criminal and civil case investigations. Work may be conducted in the field or in a laboratory.

This position may be required to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and some holidays. Schedule rotation may be required.

As defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, this classification may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class. Work assignments may vary depending on the department’s need and will be communicated to the applicant or incumbent by the supervisor.

• Uses advanced digital camera systems and photographic techniques, unmanned aerial systems (drones) and 3D lidar scanners to document crime scenes, traffic collisions, evidence, autopsies, victims & suspects;
• Develops, documents and preserves latent fingerprint evidence using a variety of methods including powders, chemicals & forensic light sources at crime scenes and in laboratory;
• Identifies, collects, and packages evidence while maintaining chain of custody documentation;
• Collaborates with law enforcement officers, detectives, and other forensic specialist during investigations;
• Uses photo lab equipment and wide format printers to create charts, diagrams and photographic prints;
• Operates and maintains forensic equipment and ensures compliance with safety and quality control standards;
• Prepares detailed written reports and documentation;
• Testifies in court, at hearings, defense interviews & depositions;
• Uses advanced digital camera system, portable lighting systems and studio lighting systems to photograph department activities, events and employee portraits;
• Uses image enhancement, point cloud registration and mapping/diagramming software;
• Instructs law enforcement personnel in crime and collision scene photography, the collection and preservation of evidence, and latent fingerprint processing;
• Represents the department and makes presentations to the public regarding forensics and crime scene investigations;
• Participates in the training of new personnel.

Selection Procedure:
Pima County Human Resources Department reserves the right to admit to the selection process only those candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. All applications will be assessed based on an evaluation of the listed education and experience. Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications may be further evaluated/scored against any advertised Preferred Qualifications. The hiring authority will interview and select the successful candidate from a referral list provided by Human Resources. Additional assessments/testing may be required as part of the selection process.     

Licenses and Certificates: Valid driver license is required at time of application. Valid AZ driver license is required at time of appointment. The successful applicant will be subject to a 39-month DOT Motor Vehicle Record review to determine applicant’s suitability to operate county vehicles in accordance with Pima County administrative procedures. Failure to obtain and maintain the required licenses and certifications shall be grounds for termination. Position requires qualifying for and maintaining membership in the International Association for Identification (IAI). Position requires qualifying for and maintaining a Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 sUAS pilot’s license.

Special Notice Items: All positions require satisfactory completion of a background investigation due to the need for access to law enforcement, corrections and courts facilities, property, communications and associated confidential information and documents, databases and evidentiary materials and communication systems. Department of Labor regulation CFR Part 1910.1030 requires notification that this category may have a high risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens. Hepatitis B vaccine will be provided. Pre-/post-appointment drug screenings are required due to the need for access as described above. The County requires pre-employment background checks. Successful candidates will receive a post-offer, pre-employment background screening to include verification of work history, education, and criminal conviction history. A prior criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment with the County. Pima County determines whether a position is eligible for visa sponsorship at the time of recruitment. Eligibility is based on the requirements of the position and applicable laws and regulations. Not all positions with Pima County are eligible for visa sponsorship. This position will require a post-job offer physical and/or drug screen. This position will require post-job offer proof of immunization(s) or immunization(s) and/or a TB screening. 

Physical/Sensory Requirements: Frequently lift and carry objects weighing up to 25 pounds; occasionally lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds; frequently required to bend, crouch and kneel; traverse rough, unimproved terrain on foot; properly wear required safety clothing & use personal protective equipment including a tight-fitting full-face respirator; perceive & distinguish colors; vision correctable to 20/20; hear & communicate via a police radio; walk long distances; stand for extended periods of time. May require working extended hours or alone for extended periods of time. Action Activity - bending, climbing, crawling, kneeling, reaching squatting, stooping; Motion Activity - simple and firm grasping and fine movement; Hearing Activity - in noisy areas, on a radio, behind themselves, equipment alarms; Speaking Activity - in person, on the phone, on a radio; Vision - operate a motor vehicle, operate machinery, distinguish colors, have depth perception and peripheral vision. Frequently required to lift, push or pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

Working Conditions: All positions are required to work rotating shifts which includes days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays. All positions are required to work rotating on-call shifts. All work shifts are subject to reassignment at management’s discretion. Frequently operates a motor vehicle on and off road. Frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions including excessive heat, rain, snow, freezing temps. Frequently exposed to hazardous lab chemicals, fire scene hazards, biological hazards and blood borne pathogens. Frequently works in and around the public including victims, suspects/arrestees, & witnesses. Occasionally perform duties in/on helicopters, aircraft, elevated platforms, ladders and roofs. Perform job duties in conditions which include decomposing bodies, strong odors, insects, hostility, emotionally charged situations, child abuse and animal cruelty. Frequently responds to locations anywhere within Pima County.

EEO Information: Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce and will not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, kinship, political interest, or any other characteristic protected by law.