Crime Scene Investigator 1

Class Characteristics

Under close supervision, to learn and perform technical and analytical work in collecting, preserving, examining, identifying, analyzing and processing physical evidence as a means for the independent and unbiased presentation of evidence used by finders of fact; to testify and present evidence in courts of law as a witness pursuant to Evidence Rule 702; and to do other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Sheriff's Office patrols County roads and rivers, investigates crimes, conducts searches and rescue operations, and operates the County jail. The Sheriff's jurisdiction includes the unincorporated areas of the County and within cities which contract for law enforcement services.

The Crime Scene Investigator 1 is a specialized non-sworn classification responsible for performing scientific investigations involving the identification, preservation and analysis of evidence under the direction of Crime Scene Investigator 2s or other Investigators. Incumbents learn and apply a variety of specialized tasks to collect, preserve, and identify evidence at the crime scene. Through guidance, incumbents will also analyze evidence in the laboratory and provide testimony in court on methods and results of analysis. Crime Scene Investigator 1s also provide interface with other sources of forensic services including, but not limited to, the Oregon State Police Forensic Services division, medicolegal death investigators, other agency forensic units, and private laboratories.

The Crime Scene Investigator 1 differs from the Crime Scene Investigator 2 which requires specialized knowledge, training and certifications in crime scene investigation and is responsible to perform the most complex analysis of evidence. It further differs from the Detective and the Evidence Technician classifications which are sworn positions responsible for performing complex or specialized criminal investigative work.

Typical Tasks

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

1. Learns to and locates, identifies and processes latent prints and impressions; examines the physical evidence for latent prints using photography, fingerprint powder and chemical processing.
2. Learns to and examines and evaluates latent prints submitted as evidence to determine sufficient ridge detail for identification purposes; classifies and searches latent and ink prints using Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS); compares latent prints against ink print cards.
3. Under guidance, analyzes evidence in laboratory and field environments using science-based procedures and methodologies; prepares and packages evidence for transmittal to state and other forensic laboratories; prepares diagrams and written reports on actions, observations, and conclusions at crime scenes and laboratory findings; documents crime scenes using various types of equipment.
4. Attends autopsies and necropsies to document injuries and other items of evidence with photographs and item seizure; examines remains of deceased in various states of decomposition.
5. Learns to and processes firearms competently including safe handling, rendering safe, processing for trace evidence, packaging, and test firing.
6. Provides testimony in courts of law regarding case evidence and fingerprint/palm print identification; prepares evidence exhibits for state and federal cases.
7. Learns and uses forensic skills, certifications, and methodologies and standards of evidence collection/processing and forensic techniques; works in conjunction with other investigators to ensure the integrity of the investigation and evidence.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Working knowledge of: Investigative techniques, procedures and practices for the collection, preservation, and identification of physical evidence and its use in the court system; court procedures and the rules of evidence in law; search and seizure; principles, processes and methodologies used in forensic science including latent print processes, trace evidence, chemical analysis, photography, evidence collection, processing, and analysis; principles, procedures, techniques, and trends in forensic science; law enforcement investigation techniques; operating principles, techniques, processes, and materials used in photography, photo editing software, computer operating methods and procedures; crime definitions and elements of crimes; digital video and still photography; use, operation and safety procedures related to specialized equipment for forensics and general equipment used to support forensics operations.

Skill to: Analyze situations accurately and make sound decisions; exercise appropriate judgment in answering questions and releasing information; prepare reports; research databases; effectively operate specialized equipment related to area of specialty; locate, mark, seize, preserve, and interpret evidence with consideration of chain-of-custody preservation and evidence integrity; analyze situations accurately, applying selected knowledge and reaching sound decisions; observe, assimilate, remember and accurately recall facts and details; comprehend, evaluate and interpret written information such as laws, ordinances, orders, technical manuals and other information related to area of specialty; establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals, co-workers, law enforcement agencies and the public; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; prepare accurate reports; effectively incorporate and use existing and new technology and equipment in area of specialty; examine and interpret latent print evidence accurately; operate a variety of photographic and photo processing equipment; perform limited chemical analysis; operate law enforcement equipment including police radios, police software, and other police equipment encountered in the course of CSI duties; ability to render self-aid, first aid to first responders, and other emergent medical assistance and ability to call for emergency medical response.

Working Conditions

Tasks are performed in a variety of settings, including office and laboratory, indoor and outdoor environments, in and around vehicles, and may involve moderately strenuous physical activity. Duties involve exposure to unpleasant elements of death scenes such as handling, removing and analyzing persons who are deceased, hazardous chemical and biological materials, and long periods spent wearing personal protective equipment up to an including encapsulated suits, respirators, and protective boots and gloves.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum qualifications are used as a guide for establishing the minimum experience, education, licensure, and/or certifications required for employment in the classification. The following minimum qualifications are established for this classification. Additional minimum qualifications and special conditions may apply to a specific position within this classification and will be stated on the job announcement.

Experience: None required.

Licenses/Certifications: None Required.

Pre-employment Qualifications

Must successfully pass an extensive background investigation which includes national fingerprint records check.

Must pass a pre-employment drug test.

Driving is required for County business on a regular basis or to accomplish work. Incumbents must possess a valid driver's license, and possess and maintain an acceptable driving record throughout the course of employment.

Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as required. Requires on-call availability and response beyond assigned shifts. Travel will be required to attend training and continuing education courses.

Other Information

The Crime Scene Investigator 1 is part of a required promotional path. Incumbents in the Crime Scene Investigator 1 classification will promote to the Crime Scene Investigator 2 classification upon satisfactory completion of an approved promotional plan. This includes the requirement to obtain the following certifications within two and a half years of hire (30 months) of hire:
International Association for Identification (IAI) Latent Print Examiner Certification
International Association for Identification (IAI) Basic Crime Scene Investigator certification

Edited: 5/23

Classification No. 128
Established: 5/22
Revised: 4/23
FLSA: Non-Exempt
EEO: 3