Crime Scene Investigator

The Crime Scene Investigator is responsible for identifying, documenting, collecting, and preserving physical evidence from crime scenes in a manner that ensures accuracy, integrity, and legal admissibility. This position supports criminal investigations by applying scientific methods, maintaining detailed documentation, and collaborating with investigators, laboratories, and prosecutors. The role requires attention to detail, adherence to established protocols, and the ability to perform effectively in dynamic and high-pressure environments.

Essential functions are the fundamental and primary duties of a classified position that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, in order to fulfill the purpose of the position.

• Carry out the Sheriff’s Mission and Vision and adhere to the Office’s Core Values;
  Trust, Service, Community;
• Cultivates high morale and a Team culture within the Sheriff’s Office;
• Maintains proficiency in the essential functions of a Patrol Deputy (If TCOLE licensed);
• Maintain firearms proficiency in accordance with Department standards (If TCOLE licensed);
• Maintain compliance in the Office’s Physical Fitness Program (If TCOLE licensed);
• Responds to crime scenes, death investigations, and other incidents to identify, secure, document, collect, preserve, and process physical, biological, and trace evidence in accordance with agency policy, state law, and forensic best practices;
• Conducts systematic crime scene examinations, evaluates scene conditions, establishes and maintains scene security, and determines appropriate evidence-collection techniques;
• Photographs, videos, sketches, and documents crime scenes, evidence, and related observations to ensure accurate and complete case records;
• Collects, packages, labels, and transports evidence while maintaining strict chain-of-custody procedures and evidentiary integrity;
• Processes evidence using forensic techniques, including latent fingerprint development, impression evidence recovery, bloodstain documentation, and basic trace evidence handling;
• Analyzes and compares fingerprints using Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) technology and manual comparison methods, as assigned;
• Submits evidence to forensic laboratories, prepares laboratory requests, and coordinates with analysts regarding testing and results;
• Prepares detailed written reports, diagrams, and supplemental documentation clearly describing methods, findings, and conclusions;
• Maintains, stores, and tracks evidence within property and evidence systems;
• Assists with evidence disposition, return, or destruction as authorized;
• Testifies in court as a fact or expert witness regarding crime scene processing, evidence handling, forensic techniques, and findings;
• Operates, maintains, and safely uses specialized forensic equipment, tools, and vehicles; reports equipment deficiencies and ensures operational readiness;
• Follows safety protocols related to biohazards, chemicals, sharps, and hazardous environments while properly utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE);
• Collaborates with deputies, investigators, supervisors, prosecutors, medical examiners, and external agencies to support criminal investigations;
• Participates in on-call rotations, after-hours responses, and emergency operations as required;
• Maintains professional certifications, completes required training, and stays current with advancements in forensic science and investigative techniques;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The preferred way to obtain the minimum knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position are listed below. The County reserves the right to consider higher…