Polygraph Specialist Trainee

This is responsible work as a trainee involving the administration of polygraph examination.

An employee in this class is in training to learn and perform entry level work in conducting investigative polygraph examinations and assist in background investigations as assigned.  The employee assists with polygraph administration for individuals being considered for employment with the City of Tampa in public safety, security, cash handling, or other sensitive occupations. The employee also supports the administration of evidentiary polygraph examinations to assist the detective division and other city departments in criminal investigations. Work requires the exercise of considerable initiative and independent judgment. The work performed is of an extremely sensitive nature requiring considerable tact, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality. Work is reviewed through observation, conferences, and reports submitted.

Schedules and supports polygraph examinations for job applicants including police officers, firefighters, security guards, cashiers, recreation leaders, and others as deemed appropriate; schedules and supports polygraph examinations on an as needed basis for detective division and other city departments.

Utilizes valid test question formats for polygraph examinations; interrogates, interviews and screens individuals; uses a device or instrument which records as minimum standards, permanently, and simultaneously, the examinee’s cardiovascular (blood pressure and pulse), respiratory (breathing) patterns and electrodermal conductivity, in order to examine individuals for the purpose of detecting truth or deception, such an instrument may record additional physiological changes pertinent to the detection of truth or deception; interprets reactions to key questions as recorded on a moving chart or digital display; during interview, inquires deeper into those areas where concerns are encountered.

Completes records of interviews; maintains permanent polygraph file of examinations conducted; maintains indices files of all polygraph examinations conducted.

Performs basic routine maintenance of the polygraph instruments; maintains sufficient supplies to conduct polygraph examinations.

Attends polygraph, interview and interrogation training to learn necessary skills and knowledge.

Performs related work as required.

Considerable knowledge of: mechanical and electrically enhanced polygraph instruments; various computer applications. Working knowledge of: polygraph equipment maintenance.

Ability to: conduct polygraph examinations; perform routine maintenance of the polygraph instrument; keep accurate records and make reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the public.

Skill in: interviewing, interrogating, and communicating.

 

Graduation from an accredited college or university with an associate’s degree including major course work in criminology, criminal justice or a related field, and three (3) years of experience in a law enforcement environment conducting criminal investigations, hiring, or background investigation interviews.

Possession of a valid Florida driver’s license required.  The ability to gain acceptance into and successfully graduate from an American Polygraph Association accredited professional polygraph examiner training course within 1 year.

During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.