City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Forensic Technical Leader - Latent Print

Under minimal direction, this position documents, evaluates, analyzes, and preserves custody of friction ridge evidence. This position provides technical guidance and promotes and maintains the quality assurance system of the Latent Print section.

1. Oversees all technical operations and maintains and updates the Latent Print Section Quality Control Documents.
2. Evaluates and coordinates training for all new employees, including recommending employees for supervised or independent casework.
3. Coordinates, evaluates, and constructs annual proficiency testing and provides courtroom evaluations of section employees.
4. Documents and resolves Quality Assurance issues according to accreditation guidelines.
5. Suspends testing in discipline until resolution of a technical problem that may affect the outcome of testing.
6. Oversees and accepts the validation of new instrumentation and methods.
7. Maintains supplies and equipment and conducts and records quarterly performance verification.
8. Receives, evaluates, and maintains custody of latent fingerprints.
9. Utilizes special methods, various comparison techniques and equipment for the enhancement of latent print evidence.
10. Writes, drafts, and completes supplemental reports and provides documentation of analysis.
11. Transports evidence or property to storage location or criminal court.
12. Testifies as an expert witness in court.
13. Is responsible for the daily technical operations of the Latent Print Section including training and technical evaluation of staff, making recommendations regarding suitability for essential job duties, and equipment operation.

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training, and guidance to others. 

• Knowledge of criminal court proceedings.
• Knowledge of proper handling techniques for forensic evidence.
• Knowledge of recommendations from national and regional scientific working groups.
• Knowledge of forensic accreditation standards such as ISO 17025:2017 and AR3125 and Texas Forensic licensing standards.
• Knowledge of forensic method validation best practices
• Knowledge of quality assurance and equipment maintenance practices.
• Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, or Local laws.
• Knowledge of hardware and software of Forensic Lab Information Management Systems.
• Knowledge of crime scene policy and procedure.
• Skill in establishing and improving practices, policies, procedures, and safety and training manuals for the section.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in the analysis of latent print examination.
• Skill in latent print practice and procedure.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Ability to obtain, interpret, and present results of examination and analysis.
• Ability to effectively train others.
• Ability to effectively develop, review, and/or critique validation test plans, validation reports, experimental/analytical data, and associated standard operating procedures for technical defensibility and adherence to quality standards.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to laypersons and customers.
• Ability to thrive in a team environment and collaborate well with others.
• Ability to be precise and meticulous with time sensitive processes.
• Ability to stay abreast of changing laws, policies, and discipline-specific trends.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to forensic science including twenty-four (24) credit hours of college coursework in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math), plus five (5) years of experience performing latent print examinations in an accredited forensic laboratory with satisfactory completion of at least two (2) years of proficiency tests.
• Graduation with a Master’s or Doctoral degree from an accredited college or university in the discipline may be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

• International Association for Identification Latent Print Certification within twelve (12) months of hire.
• Valid Driver License.