Crime Scene Investigator

Overview

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is responsible for the documentation, collection, preservation, analysis, and processing of evidence identified and recovered at crime scenes. Duties include:

• Scene photography
• Tire and shoe impression photography
• Casting
• Scene search
• Identification and collection of physical and biological evidence
• Latent fingerprint processing
• Follow-up investigation at hospitals
• Attending autopsies
• Obtaining postmortem fingerprints and palm prints of deceased individuals
• Scene sketches
• Report writing

Laboratory Duties

Laboratory duties include:

• Chemical and powder processing of evidence for latent fingerprint development
• Latent fingerprint photography
• Trace evidence collection
• Evidence preservation utilizing alternate light sources
• Packaging and submission to the police property room or Texas DPS Crime Laboratory for DNA analysis and CODIS entry
• Maintaining chain of custody

Additional Duties

Additional duties include:

• State and federal courtroom testimony
• Presentation of recovered evidence
• Verification of arrested individuals for background investigation purposes
• Occasionally assisting other law enforcement agencies with crime scene processing

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include:

• Documenting crime scenes using digital cameras, video recorders, and related equipment
• Documenting injuries or other evidence on the body of victims, suspects, and other subjects
• Operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones to capture aerial photos or video footage of crime scenes
• Photographing evidence taken to the laboratory for additional processing
• Processing evidence at scenes for latent prints using powders, chemicals, and alternate light sources
• Detecting and collecting trace evidence such as blood stains, body fluids, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, and tool and tire marks
• Collecting items of evidence for processing at the lab or for investigative purposes
• Properly packaging, securing, and storing items of evidence
• Utilizing proper techniques and the correct sequence for multiple processing types
• Morgue detail, photographing the body, obtaining postmortem finger and palm prints, collecting trace evidence, and identifying deceased subjects
• Verifying identity through prints of subjects with multiple arrest records
• Identifying deceased subjects by collecting morgue prints and comparing them to arrest records
• Operating a 30-laser scanning system to capture data for extremely detailed and precise scene reconstruction
• Using GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System instrumentation as needed to obtain precise measurements
• Rendering data through specialized CAD software application Trimble Reveal to create three-dimensional digital twins of crime scenes
• Taking manual measurements and creating hand-drawn sketches where necessary
• Preparing thorough technical reports detailing activities at crime scenes and continued work in the laboratory
• Conducting administrative and technical reviews
• Uploading digital evidence into digital image management system DIMS
• Transferring scan data to computer for software rendering
• Submitting evidence to Firearms or Latent Print Unit for proper analysis
• Submitting other items, DNA trace evidence, etc. to Texas DPS Lab
• Coordinating transfer of evidence to and from Property Room, ensuring chain of custody is maintained
• Meeting with attorneys in pre-trial discussions to prepare for testimony
• Preparing exhibits or visual aids, charts, photographs, PowerPoint slides, etc. as needed
• Presenting findings and observations in courts of law
• Participating in relevant training courses, virtual, web-based, or on-site
• Staying abreast of advancements in technology, technique, and other topics relevant to job duties
• Assisting Corpus Christi Police Academy with instruction of cadets in crime scene investigations
• Assisting with training and observation of crime scene investigator trainees and interns
• Participating in various community outreach activities, CCPD Citizens Academy, school functions, etc.
• Cleaning and restocking crime scene vehicles with supplies, tools, and packaging materials
• Ensuring batteries for all electronic equipment, 3D scanners, cameras, flashes, scene lights, tablets, etc. are fully charged and devices are ready for use
• Conducting basic maintenance and cleaning of crime scene equipment, informing management when repair is needed

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work

• Exempt - Full-Time
• 40-hour work week with rotating shifts
• Selected candidate will be required to work weekends and holidays as this is a 24/7 position
• Call outs when necessary
• In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree (BA or BS)
• Six months to one year of experience
• Licenses and Certifications Required:
• A valid drivers license
• TCIC (Texas Crime Information Center) and NCIC (National Crime Information Center) certification
• First aid and CPR certification
• Employment Testing:
• Police Criminal Background Check
• Motor Vehicle Record Check
• Drug Screening
• Physical Exam

Basis of Rating

• A recruitment consultant will evaluate all applications against the posted qualifications.
• The city may also conduct additional skill assessment tests in addition to the panel interview.

Supplemental Information

• Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position with the City of Corpus Christi.
• The City of Corpus Christi is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
• If you require an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please request assistance from the Human Resources Department.