SENIOR EVIDENCE SPECIALIST 5706

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves handling the more complex tasks in the unit including working as the lead investigator at homicide and death scenes, and instructing evidence courses at the Police Academy. The incumbent is expected to exercise considerable independent initiative and judgement and have a higher level expertise of the fingerprint sciences. Work is performed under the general supervision of an administrative superior in the Suffolk County Police Department. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Photographs more complex crime scenes, evidence and fingerprints;
Presents training courses at the Police Academy and other locations.

Gathers statistics for monthly and annual reports;

Assists in budget preparations for the unit;

Participates in the formal training of new personnel.

Meets with DCJS personnel to update State fingerprint computer;

Operates the Statewide Automated Biometric Identification System (SABIS) Computer to determine matches with existing prints in the system;

Operates a laser so that chemically treated evidence will fluoresce;

Reviews accuracy of fingerprint matches determined by Evidence Specialists in the unit;

Reviews videotapes of crime scenes and confessions of suspects;

Presents expert fingerprint testimony in court;

Prepares reports and exhibits for court presentation.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Comprehensive knowledge of the techniques employed in locating, developing, reading, classifying and preserving latent prints for court presentation; comprehensive knowledge of the principles used in taking digital photographs and video recordings; thorough knowledge of the skills employed in video technology; good knowledge of principles and methods used in fingerprint classification; skill in techniques involved in usage of lasers to identify prints; ability to make independent decisions under stressful conditions; ability to present ideas clearly, both orally and in writing; ability to lead a crew of investigative staff in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Bachelor’s Degree and six (6) years of professional experience* in fingerprint identification work requiring court testimony.

*Professional experience is defined as experience involving independent responsibility for the analysis of evidence and includes the signing and issuing of reports. All qualifying experience must have been gained within the last ten (10) years.

PROMOTIONAL

Three (3) years of permanent competitive status as an Evidence Specialist.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

All employees are required to possess New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services SABIS (Statewide Automated Biometric Identification System) Certification and the Certificate of Completion from the Sirchie Advanced Latent Ridgeology Course at time of appointment to this position.

All employees are required to pass yearly proficiency examinations.

At the time of appointment and during employment in this title employees must possess a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State.

After appointment, candidates must obtain a valid pistol license issued by the Suffolk County Police Department and maintain this license throughout employment in the title.

R 5/28/20

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive