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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Evidence Technician

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Law EnforcementForensicsGovernment

🎯 Role Definition

As an Evidence Technician, you are the critical link between the crime scene and the courtroom. You will play a pivotal role in the criminal justice process by applying scientific and systematic methods to identify, document, collect, and preserve physical evidence. This position requires a meticulous, unbiased, and resilient individual who can operate with precision under challenging and often stressful conditions. You will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of evidence from collection through to its presentation in court, ensuring that every piece of the puzzle is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Join a dedicated team where your technical expertise directly contributes to the pursuit of justice and the safety of the community.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Forensic Science College Graduate
  • Police Officer or Community Service Officer
  • Military Police or Investigator
  • Laboratory Assistant (Forensics or Medical)

Advancement To:

  • Senior/Lead Evidence Technician or Crime Scene Investigator
  • Crime Scene Unit Supervisor/Manager
  • Latent Print Examiner
  • Forensic Laboratory Analyst (e.g., DNA, Ballistics)

Lateral Moves:

  • Property & Evidence Room Manager
  • Digital Forensics Technician
  • Medicolegal Death Investigator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Systematically search for, identify, and collect all forms of physical and trace evidence at various crime scenes, including homicides, burglaries, assaults, and traffic collisions.
  • Perform advanced latent fingerprint processing using powders, chemicals, fuming techniques, and alternative light sources on a wide variety of surfaces.
  • Conduct comprehensive photographic and videographic documentation of crime scenes, evidence, victims, and suspects, ensuring a clear and complete visual record.
  • Create precise, to-scale sketches and diagrams of crime scenes, both manually and using digital software (e.g., CAD, FARO Zone 3D), to illustrate the spatial relationships of evidence and key features.
  • Properly package, seal, and label all collected evidence to prevent contamination and degradation, initiating and maintaining a strict chain of custody.
  • Collect biological samples, including blood, saliva, and tissue, for DNA analysis, adhering to established protocols to ensure viability and integrity.
  • Locate and recover firearms, casings, projectiles, and other ballistics-related evidence, ensuring they are rendered safe and preserved for analysis.
  • Make casts and impressions of footwear, tire tracks, and tool marks using materials like dental stone or silicone.
  • Respond to calls for service on a rotational or on-call basis, which includes nights, weekends, and holidays, in all weather conditions.
  • Prepare and submit detailed, accurate, and objective investigative reports that document all actions, observations, and evidence recovery efforts.
  • Testify in depositions and court proceedings as a factual or expert witness, clearly articulating the methods and findings of your investigation.
  • Process and examine seized vehicles for physical evidence both at the scene and in a controlled impound facility.
  • Manage and maintain the security and organization of the evidence storage facility or property room, including evidence intake, storage, and lawful disposition.
    s- Operate and maintain a variety of specialized forensic equipment, including cameras, alternate light sources (ALS), electrostatic dust lifters, and laboratory instruments.
  • Attend autopsies to photograph injuries and collect post-mortem evidence, such as fingerprints, GSR, and trace materials, at the direction of the medical examiner.
  • Utilize law enforcement databases and records management systems (RMS) to log evidence, manage cases, and write reports.
  • Uphold and adhere to all departmental policies, safety procedures, and legal mandates (e.g., Fourth Amendment) related to evidence handling and search and seizure.
  • Provide technical assistance and training to patrol officers and detectives on basic evidence collection and scene preservation techniques.
  • Process digital media evidence, including performing basic analysis and duplication of video and audio files from surveillance systems.
  • Maintain inventory and request replenishment of crime scene supplies and equipment to ensure operational readiness.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies, forensic disciplines, and best practices through continuous training and professional development.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to crime trends and evidence statistics.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap by providing insights on evidence management systems.
  • Collaborate with business units (e.g., District Attorney's Office, Crime Lab) to translate data needs into engineering requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies within the data engineering team for system upgrades or new software implementation.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Crime Scene Photography/Videography: Mastery of DSLR cameras, various lenses, and lighting techniques to capture fair and accurate images.
  • Latent Print Development: Proficiency in using powders, cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming, ninhydrin, and other chemical processing methods.
  • Evidence Collection & Preservation: In-depth knowledge of proper techniques for collecting DNA, trace evidence, firearms, and impression evidence.
  • Chain of Custody Management: Unwavering adherence to protocols for documenting the handling and transfer of all evidence.
  • Technical Report Writing: Ability to write clear, concise, and objective reports that can withstand legal scrutiny.
  • Crime Scene Sketching & Diagramming: Skill in creating accurate manual and computer-assisted diagrams (CAD/FARO).
  • Alternate Light Source (ALS) Operation: Experience in using various light wavelengths to visualize physiological fluids, fibers, and other trace evidence.
  • Impression Casting: Competency in mixing and pouring casting materials for footwear and tire track evidence.
  • Courtroom Testimony: Ability to present technical information clearly and confidently in a legal setting.
  • Forensic Science Principles: Strong foundational knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics as they apply to forensics.

Soft Skills

  • Meticulous Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for detail to ensure no evidence is missed and all procedures are followed perfectly.
  • Integrity and Ethics: A high degree of personal integrity and a commitment to unbiased, ethical work.
  • Emotional Resilience: The ability to remain professional and focused while working in traumatic and emotionally charged situations.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Aptitude for analyzing complex scenes and logically determining the best course of action.
  • Independent Judgment: Confidence to work autonomously and make sound decisions under pressure with minimal supervision.
  • Strong Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal skills for documenting work and collaborating with investigators, attorneys, and juries.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, kneel, bend, and lift heavy objects for extended periods in challenging environments.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to handle a wide range of situations and work irregular hours as required by casework.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent, supplemented by specialized training or certification in crime scene investigation or a related field.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Forensic Science
  • Criminal Justice / Administration of Justice
  • Chemistry
  • Biology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience in a law enforcement, investigative, or forensic science setting. Some agencies offer entry-level positions for candidates with a relevant Bachelor's degree and a comprehensive internship.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience as an Evidence Technician, Crime Scene Investigator, or in a related role within a law enforcement agency.
  • Certification from the International Association for Identification (IAI) as a Certified Crime Scene Investigator (CCSI) or a similar credential is highly desirable.
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