Arlington, Texas, Police Department

The Crime Scene Investigator will perform a variety of highly skilled technical identification tasks both in the field and laboratory to include; collecting, preserving, comparing, identifying physical evidence found at crime scenes, photographing and sketching crime scenes, preparing comprehensive and technically correct reports and testifying as an expert witness in court proceedings.

The work environment may involve high risks with exposure to potentially dangerous situations or unusual environmental stress that require a range of safety and other precautions such as frequent/extended exposure to outdoor weather conditions, hazardous chemicals, and blood borne pathogens.

Crime scene searches are often performed by extensive kneeling, reaching, and climbing. The Crime Scene Investigator will handle objects of varying weight and shape to include; pushing, pulling, or moving items weighing a minimum of 35 lbs up to 200 lbs, and therefore must be in good physical condition.

The position requires a degree in criminal justice and/or forensic, physical or natural science from an accredited college/university and a minimum of two (2) years of directly related experience, which includes field experience. Work requires being available for various shifts, holidays, and call-outs. The Crime Scene Investigator must be able to read road maps and learn the geography of the City, observe and recall details, proficient at photographic methods including a variety of digital equipment, lighting, filtration, infrared, and ultraviolet techniques.

The Crime Scene Investigator must be familiar with techniques for gathering and preserving physical evidence. Be able to learn and recognize hazards/safety precautions related to crime scenes, chemicals, and equipment used in processing evidence. One must be skilled in the use of powders and chemicals for processing scenes to include latent prints with subsequent lifting and photography. Also, be familiar with standard techniques for classification, development, transfer and chemical processing of fingerprints. Knowledge of ASCLD-LAB accreditation procedures preferred.

The Crime Scene Investigator will be required to be well versed with rules of court evidence, methods, and procedures. Also, present accurate and professional testimony in court and establish and maintain effective working relationships with associate personnel, court personnel, and public.