Latent Print Examiner I - EXAM

Definition

Under general supervision, is responsible for entry-level latent print examination in the Crime Laboratory; performs related duties as required.

Examples of Work

(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all of the duties that may be performed.)

Participates in a structured training program in latent print examination by learning laboratory techniques, equipment, methods, and practices;

Learns the procedures of evidence collection, processing, and photography;

Learns to perform examinations of friction ridge impressions using the ACE-V (analysis, comparison, evaluation, and verification) method;

Learns to conduct searches through AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) and other law enforcement databases (i.e. NGI, State AFIS) for comparison of latent prints to prints on file;

Learns to handle physical evidence according to the chain of custody and laboratory procedures;

Learns to prepare documentation and maintains required records for laboratory activities such as training, case examination, reagent preparation, and maintenance or service on equipment;

Participates in laboratory competency testing for latent prints including a mock court, observation by experienced examiners, and exercises with unknown impressions to include completing documentation in technical records and reports;

Learns to testify in court as an expert witness; participates in mock trial training exercises;

Learns to perform latent print processing on items of physical evidence utilizing various physical and chemical methods;

Maintains knowledge of currently used technologies and procedures through extensive reading of forensic scientific literature and training by laboratory personnel;

May perform independent latent print case analysis, once authorized;

May testify as an expert witness in court;

Maintains work areas and supports laboratory safety and security.

Minimum Qualifications

Possession of a bachelor’s degree with some coursework in the physical or biological sciences (ten (10) semester or fifteen (15) quarter hours).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

General knowledge of friction ridge skin patterns and characteristic interpretations; general knowledge of techniques to locate, develop, identify, and compare latent prints; general knowledge of the AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) computer system; general knowledge of laboratory safety; general knowledge of evidence and criminal procedures; ability to distinguish fine visual details; ability to read and comprehend memoranda, technical reports, and scientific literature; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; ability to comprehend and follow oral or written instructions; ability to perform assigned tasks according to prescribed procedures and in a timely manner; ability to effectively present and defend court testimony; ability to maintain accurate records; ability to use a computer and related software; ability to look back and forth to compare minute detail between two or more sources of information; ability to establish and maintain effective communications and working relationships with internal and external customers; ability to maintain confidentiality.

Test/Job Contact Information

The names of the applicants passing this administration of this exam will be used to create a NEW, OPEN COMPETITIVE, eligible list for this classification. If you are interested in having your name included on the new eligible list, you will need to apply for this exam within the filing period and successfully complete all phases of the testing process. Questions regarding this process can be directed to the Test Center at .

The examination process will consist of a multiple-choice examination weighted 55% covering reading comprehension, logic and reasoning, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and visual assessment; a computer skills exam weighted 20% assessing Microsoft 2010 Word, Outlook, and Excel; and a visual assessment/comparison test weighted 25% assessing the ability to shift back and forth between two sources of information and compare detail.

Approved applicants will be notified by mail/email of their scheduled test date and time.

All applicants must complete all phases of the testing process in order to receive a final score. The names of all candidates who pass this examination will remain on the eligible list for two years, unless the eligible list is replaced prior to or extended beyond the two years.

All applications for this position will be forwarded to the department indicated above. For those candidates passing the application review step, the hiring process will include one or more interviews, a criminal background check, and a pre-employment drug test. For any position within the Division of Police, the hiring process will also include the completion of an extensive personal history questionnaire and a polygraph examination. The selection process can take as little as 3 weeks and up to 3 months.

The certification process will be: Fixed Band

The City of Columbus is an Equal Opportunity Employer