Police Evidence Specialist Trainee; SR

Under immediate supervision, receives initial orientation and training in searching for, recovering, preserving, marking and processing of physical/digital evidence at crime scenes and traffic accidents as required, and in preparing evidence reports and exhibits for court presentation; assists more experienced specialists with conducting tests and analyses in a police forensics laboratory; and performs other related duties as required.

This class differs from the Police Evidence Specialist I in that the Police Evidence Specialist Trainee performs as a trainee and receives initial orientation and training relating to the search, recovery, preservation, and marking of physical/digital evidence in accordance with prescribed standards, methods, and techniques; whereas the Police Evidence Specialist I performs moderately difficult tasks relating to the search, recovery, preservation and marking of physical/digital evidence, and assists more experienced specialists with the more difficult and complex aspects of the work.

• Receives orientation in the prescribed standards, methods, and techniques in searching for, recovering, preserving, and marking physical/digital and trace evidence at crime scenes and traffic accidents as required;
• Learns the proper procedures for measurements and notes; learns to prepare simple sketches and drawings of crime scenes and traffic accidents as required, including placement of physical evidence;
• Receives on-the-job training in dusting, lifting, and recovering latent fingerprints from various sources; producing castings of footprints, tire tracks, and other impressions;
• Receives orientation in taking photographs of latent prints, evidence, victims, crime scenes and traffic accidents as required;
• Receives orientation and training in conducting tests and analyses in the crime laboratory to include examination and analysis of drugs, and alcohol; processing latent prints through chemical methods; examining, and testing firearms and comparing bullets and cartridges; preparing chemical reagents, etc.;
• Learns the proper procedures for preparing detailed evidence reports and assembling evidence and exhibits for court presentation;
• Assists in procuring supplies and services;
• Attends in-service and other classes pertinent to the field;
• Operates a mobile crime scene response vehicle as required;
• Performs other related duties as required.

Training and

Experience:

A combination of education and experience substantially equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in the physical or biological sciences.

Qualification for Firearms:
Must be qualified to carry and/or possess firearms or ammunition in accordance with state and federal laws, e.g., no misdemeanor or felony domestic violence conviction.

License Requirement:
Possession of a valid motor vehicle driver’s license (equivalent to State of Hawaii, Type
3).

Knowledge of:
Basic principles of physical and biological sciences; standard laboratory procedures and equipment; uses of standard office equipment.

Ability to:
Learn crime scene characteristics and evidence recovery procedures; learn and apply the rules of evidence; learn and apply investigative methods and techniques; learn to prepare reports of crime scene investigations; learn the use of common laboratory instruments and equipment; assist with routine laboratory analyses and keep records of findings; work well with others; and follow oral and written instructions.

Persons seeking appointment to positions in this class must meet the health and physical condition standards deemed necessary and proper to perform the…