Senior Evidence Technician

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs complex work in the collection and processing of crime scene evidence; provides lead direction and review for assigned Evidence Technicians I / II; performs related duties as assigned.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is the lead-level class within the Evidence Technician series. Incumbents provide work assignment, training, and evaluation of staff, resolve day-to-day work issues, and handle the more complex assignments. Work requires the use of independent judgment and specialized knowledge in evidence collection and processing. This class is distinguished from supervisory-level roles, which hold full management responsibility over evidence staff and operations.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES (Illustrative Only)

Assigns, directs, and reviews the work of Evidence Technicians I / II.

Trains staff in work procedures and assists in performance evaluations and candidate selection.

Supervises evidence collection at major crime scenes and supports special investigations.

Examines crime scenes for biological, trace, and ballistic evidence.

Collects, analyzes, and preserves fingerprints and other forensic evidence.

Photographs crime scenes, property damage, autopsies, and related investigative material.

Prepares negatives, photo enlargements, and other photographic evidence.

Processes latent fingerprints and performs gunshot residue tests.

Books and processes evidence for later court use.

Prepares reports, crime scene sketches, and evidence logs.

Testifies in court regarding evidence collection and analysis.

Operates and maintains laboratory, photographic, and field equipment.

Provides general office support including report preparation and recordkeeping.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education / Experience

High school diploma or GED.

Two years of experience in evidence collection and control at a level equivalent to an intermediate evidence technician.

Other Requirements

Valid drivers license.

Ability to work flexible shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Must be willing to handle firearms.

Knowledge of :

Basic supervisory principles and practices.

Law enforcement organization, terminology, and procedures.

Evidence collection, preservation, and chain of custody requirements.

Fingerprint systems, including classification and latent print comparison.

Safe handling of hazardous substances and firearms.

Office practices and use of photographic and forensic equipment.

Skill in :

Assigning, directing, and reviewing staff work.

Training and instructing others in technical procedures.

Collecting, preserving, and analyzing physical and forensic evidence.

Operating photographic and laboratory equipment effectively.

Preparing detailed reports, sketches, and documentation.

Communicating effectively and tactfully.

Exercising sound judgment and decision-making in daily and emergency situations.

Presenting clear and accurate court testimony regarding evidence.

Ability to :

Develop expertise in fingerprint identification using automated systems.

Qualify as a fingerprint expert witness in court.

Operate specialized photographic and video equipment for evidence documentation.