Evidence Technician

Job Description

Under the direction of the Supervisor, CS/CM Analyst (Evidence Technician) performs tasks related to the handling of evidence. They utilize standard operating procedures but are expected to exercise independent judgement in resolving issues, consulting with the Training/Accessioning Coordinator or Supervisor as needed.

• Requests, receives, transports, returns/releases evidence from outside agencies and the Houston Police Department.
• Screens, photographically documents, and corrects evidence seals when appropriate.
• Issues rejection notifications for evidence discrepancies.
• Maintains the integrity of evidence during various stages of evidence handling.
• Performs evidence transfers and staging in all scientific disciplines.
• Performs monthly evidence storage location audits; documents and corrects issues found.
• Creates cases from outside agencies and/or the Houston Police Department in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) via submission forms and/or other systems.
• Screens, accessions (inventories and prepares samples for testing), and repackages toxicology evidence.
• Writes, administratively reviews, and issues accessioning and rejection reports.
• Maintains expected target error rates and throughput for evidence handling.
• Compiles data for use in a variety of reports, surveys, inventories, studies, projects, etc.
• Provides courtroom testimony.
• Participates in special projects.
• Complies with all applicable policies, procedures, and accreditation standards.
• Performs other duties as requested.

• Evidence handling experience preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work in different software systems including Microsoft Office, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and Evidence Management System (EMS).
• Ability to use basic analytical skills to select and execute duties.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically, troubleshoot effectively, and make timely decisions.
• Demonstrated ability to work with frequent interruptions and changing priorities.

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or a science degree required.
• Certification required as mandated by career ladder.

• Accountability – ability to accept responsibility and account for actions.
• Accuracy – ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
• Analytical Skills – ability to use thinking and reasoning to solve a problem.
• Communication, Oral and Written – ability to communicate effectively with others using spoken word and in writing clearly and concisely.
• Detail Oriented – ability to pay attention to minute details of a project or task.
• Ethical – ability to demonstrate conduct conforming to a set of values and accepted standards.
• Honesty / Integrity – ability to be truthful and credible in the workplace.
• Initiative – ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
• Motivation – ability to inspire oneself to reach a goal and/or perform to the best of their ability.
• Organized – ability to be structured and methodical in working skills.
• Problem Solving – ability to find a solution or to deal proactively with work-related problems.
• Relationship Building – ability to effectively build relationships with stakeholders and co-workers.
• Reliability – the trait of being dependable and trustworthy.

• Must be able to walk and stand for long periods of time and may need to squat or bend, reach outward or upward to effectively discharge job duties.
• Must be able to lift/carry and/or push/pull up to 40 lbs.
• Must be willing to travel to off-site locations.

Houston Forensic Science offers a competitive salary and employee benefits package.

Houston Forensic Center has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions are included with the duties and responsibilities. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.