Seattle, Washington Police Department

Location

2203 Airport Way South

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Salary

$31.16 to $36.30 an hour

Position Description

The Seattle Police Department is actively recruiting experienced Latent Print Examiners (minimum of two years) to join our team of highly motivated professionals. The Latent Print Examiner will analyze and compare latent prints. Collect and preserve latent prints and other physical evidence in the laboratory, as well as under potentially adverse conditions at major crime scenes. This position reports to the Latent Print Examiner Supervisor.

Job Responsibilities

Locate, develop, recover and preserve latent impressions on a wide variety of materials and surfaces using physical, chemical, electronic, and optical techniques. Administer infrared, ultraviolet, and other special forensic photographic procedures, including digital imaging devices. Evaluate and enter suitable latent prints into the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) by photographing, determining the minutiae, identifying position, tracing, and inputting the impression. Determine identifications and non-identifications by comparison and verification of each latent print to AFIS candidate lists. Write detailed reports concerning results of analysis. Recover fingerprints, palm prints, and footprints from deceased and decomposed bodies, victims of crime, and potentially violent suspects. Train Identification Technicians in the proper collection, preservation, and documentation of latent print evidence. Provide training to law enforcement personnel concerning the proper collection and preservation of physical evidence. Testify in criminal legal proceedings as needed concerning methods of analysis and results. The expert Latent Print Examiner team is part of the Department's Forensic Support Services including the Identification Unit, Evidence Unit, Photo Lab, and Video Unit.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor of Science degree with a major in forensic science, criminalistics, physical or natural science, or related field, and a minimum of two years experience in latent print examinations and processing of evidence. Technical experience in a forensic laboratory or in the identification and analysis of fingerprints can substitute for up to two years of college education. Able to respond to crime scenes on weekends, evenings and holidays. Working knowledge of the Henry Classification and National Crime Information Collection (NCIC) systems, forensic photography, alternate light sources, and digital imaging technology. Proper use and storage of safety equipment i.e., air respirators, chemicals, gloves, booties, and laboratory equipment. Proper handling of hazardous, caustic, flammable, and carcinogenic chemicals, including firearms and explosive devices. Satisfy a Seattle Police Department background investigation; pass a physical examination by a City-approved doctor. Washington State Driver's License at time of hire. Obtain a Washington State ACCESS/WACIS certification within one year of employment.

Desired Qualifications

Temperament to work with deceased bodies, body fluids, biologic pathogens, hazardous materials, and firearms in a professional and safe manner. Certification by the International Association for Identification (IAI). Coursework from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in latent print examination or other forensic training. Working knowledge of the Automated Fingerprint Identification System. Highly detail oriented with the ability to follow oral directions and written operating procedures. Reliable judgment, problem solving and decision making skills. Self-motivated individual with experience working in a team environment. Coursework in Chemistry a plus!

Position Requirements

• Candidates must pass a written examination as well as a practical examination and pass at 70% or better with NO misidentifications (a misidentification is an automatic disqualifier).
• Candidates from out of state will need to stay in Seattle for three days at their own expense.
• Candidates selected for this position will be required to provide a conviction history.
• A background check will be required for candidates selected for this position.

About the Department

The Seattle Police Department is a great place to work. With roughly 1,850 employees, it is big enough to meet and work with a variety of people, while small enough that you will get to know many of your co-workers. Working for the City of Seattle offers a very generous retirement and benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision.

Seattle Police enjoys a national reputation for excellence; known for our training, and our support for technology and innovation.

As a Latent Print Examiner with the Seattle Police Department you may have the opportunity to be promoted to a Latent Print Examiner Lead (starts at $67K), or a Latent Print Examiner Supervisor (starts at $71K).

How to Apply:

Apply online at http://www.seattle.gov/jobs. A computer is available for use to complete an on-line application and is located at the Personnel Department, Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Avenue, Suite 5500, Seattle, WA 98124-4028. Please refer to JOB # 2013-00435.

The Seattle Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer that Values Diversity in the Workforce