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Latent Fingerprint Examiner (#413170)
$35.31-$42.92 Hourly / $6,120.68-$7,439.72 Monthly / $73,448.11-$89,276.65 Yearly
Apply as a Reinstatement applicant



CLASS SUMMARY

Examines, identifies, compares and preserves fingerprint impressions discovered in criminal investigations and provides expert witness testimony in court.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This class is characterized by the responsibility for the performance of technical fingerprint identification work in support of criminal investigations.

Supervision Received and Exercised

Receives direction from the Identification Bureau Supervisor.
 
Exercises no supervision.

Essential Duties

Compares, identifies and evaluates latent fingerprints for entry into the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS); operates photographic equipment utilized in enlarging and reducing latent fingerprints for acceptance into the AFIS system.
 
Prepares tracings of latent fingerprints for entry into the AFIS system; evaluates and compares inked to inked fingerprints and latent to inked fingerprints for identification purposes.
 
Searches and files fingerprints utilizing the Henry and NCIC classification systems.
 
Prepares fingerprint exhibits for court proceedings; provides expert court testimony; qualifies as fingerprint expert; attends pre-trial conferences.
 
Maintains confidential files of latent fingerprint (identified and unidentified) evidence.
 
Corresponds and interacts with DOJ, DMV, FBI and other agencies; meets with the public.
 
Maintains professional knowledge in applicable areas and keeps abreast of changes in job-related rules, statutes, laws and new business trends; makes recommendations for the implementation of changes; reads and interprets professional literature; attends training programs, workshops and seminars as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of:
 
Thorough knowledge of fingerprint classification, searching and filing methods; latent print comparison and identification techniques.
 
Methods of identification, interpretation and preservation of evidence.
 
Photographic processes.
 
Composite likeness construction techniques.
 
Principles and techniques utilized in the classification of fingerprints under the Henry System criminal justice system.
 
Techniques of evidence handling.
 
Courtroom procedures.
 
Legal principles relating to the use and admissibility of physical evidence.
 
Automated computerized fingerprint systems such as CAL ID, ALPS, and AFIS.
 
Skill to:
 
Operate office equipment including a personal computer, copy and fax machines and printers.
 
Ability to:
 
Classify fingerprints accurately; compare and make latent fingerprint identification accurately.
 
Operate photographic equipment.
 
Prepare narrative and statistical reports.
 
Testify as a court expert on fingerprint analysis.
 
Understand, interpret and explain regulations and policies governing gathering and preserving of evidence.
 
Collect and analyze data to draw logical conclusions and make appropriate recommendations.
 
Comply with laws, regulations and professional practices governing law enforcement program services and operations.
Maintain accurate records and document actions taken.
 
Research regulations, procedures and/or technical reference materials.
 
Maintain confidentiality of information.

Education and Experience

Experience: One year of experience identifying and classifying latent fingerprints utilizing automated computerized fingerprint systems.
 
Education/Training: Certification as a latent print examiner by the International Association for Identification or graduation from F.B.I. fingerprint classification and latent fingerprint schools or the Institute of Applied Science Fingerprint course is required.

LICENSING/CERTIFICATION REQ

Must be a recognized expert witness in civilian courts of law at the Superior Court level.

Possession of a valid Class C California drivers license may be required.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Ability:  Tasks require the ability to exert moderate, though not constant physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (12-20 pounds).
 
Sensory Requirements: Requires the ability to recognize and identify similarities and differences between shade, degree or value of colors, shapes, sounds, forms, textures or physical appearance associated with job-related objects, materials, tasks or people.
 
Environmental Factors: Requires the ability to work under conditions where exposure to environmental factors poses a limited risk of minor injury or illness.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Incumbents may be required to work outside of normal business hours.
 
Candidates for positions in this class will be required to pass a background investigation in accordance with applicable law, regulation and/or policy. 

CLASS: 413170; EST: 11/1/1989; REV: 11/1/2002;