Forensic Investigator

Definition

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.

Essential Functions

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 :

the unit.

Experience and Training Guidelines

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

Ability to :

Experience :

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

Education :

Licenses / Certifications :

Desired Memberships :

Desirable Certifications :

Supplemental Information

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.

The City of Fontana has a flexible benefits plan. This plan allows for employees to select benefits based upon their individual needs. Full-time and Classified Part-time employees are eligible for benefits.

Please to view our excellent employee benefit options.

01

Do you possess two (2) years of responsible technical experience related to law enforcement, forensic science, or evidence management?

02

Do you possess a high school diploma / GED, supplemented by college-level coursework in criminology, biology, chemistry, or a related field?

03

What is your highest level of education?

04

Were you referred to this position by a current Fontana Police Department employee?

Required Question