LATENT PRINT EXAMINER III

21835

(Non-Competitive)

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

 

The work involves responsibility for processing items of physical evidence for the purpose of developing latent print friction ridge detail (fingerprints, footprints, palm prints) using various physical and chemical methods. These latent prints are permanently recorded through the use of digital photography. An employee in this class determines the best technique to develop each specific print and may, if appropriate, conduct comparisons of latent or patent prints to inked prints. In addition, the work involves explaining analysis to a jury and providing demonstrations/visual displays. The Latent Print Examiner III is the highest level in the Latent Print Examiner series and may be responsible for the technical work direction and training of subordinate Latent Print Examiners in all automated and manual operations and in evidence processing. An employee in this class provides guidance, training and technical assistance to less experienced personnel. The Latent Print Examiner III may assist the Senior Latent Print Examiner and the Director of Laboratories in developing operating procedures, training programs for staff and user agency personnel, casework management, personnel performance evaluations and budget preparation. General supervision is received from the Senior Latent Print Examiner. Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

 

Develops latent prints (finger, palm and foot) from physical evidence utilizing both physical and chemical methods (includes footwear/tire track).

Trains Latent Print Examiners I & II in technical procedures, handling of evidence and preparation of material for court testimony.

Photographs developed friction ridge detail (latents) and patent (visual) impressions

• Development of exposed film – darkroom

• Printing of developed film

Use of digital photography to record friction ridge detail (Morehits).

Performs evaluation of friction ridge detail for submission to ID section/SAFIS

Takes notes and writes reports.

Determines methods of analysis to be applied by Latent Print Examiners I & II and supervises the work through review of findings and standards of investigation.

Receives, stores and dispositions evidence.

May conduct comparisons of latent or patent print to inked prints, or footwear/tire track impressions to known impressions.

Reagent preparation.

Performs QC documentation.

Instrument validation/evaluation of new techniques.

Attends meetings on-site and off-site.

Reads relevant materials and attends training sessions and conferences.

Trains Law Enforcement personnel and others responsible for gathering evidence.

Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

 

Good knowledge of modern and complex methods and techniques of latent print processing using powders, chemicals and alternate light sources.

Good knowledge of the analysis, comparison and evaluation of latent prints as it pertains to the identification process.

Good knowledge of operations and activities of latent print examinations.

Working knowledge of the methodology applied in chemical analyses of physical evidence for use in crime detection.

Ability to train lesser experienced co-workers and clients.

Ability to analyze and evaluate information and to construct logical conclusions.

Full Performance Knowledges, Skills, Abilities and Personal Characteristics (cont’d)

Ability to interpret laboratory analysis techniques, procedures and theories, orally and in writing, in a clear and concise manner so that the non-scientist may understand the significance of the results obtained utilizing these procedures.

Ability to make sound judgments.

Ability to use and operate photographic and lab equipment, including alternate light sources.

Ability to demonstrate initiative, motivation and dependability.

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher in a natural science, forensic science, criminalistics or a closely related field and five (5) years of full time paid work experience, or its part-time equivalent, performing work equivalent to a Latent Print Examiner;

 

NOTE:

Education may be substituted for experience as follows: A Master’s Degree or a Doctorate Degree (PhD) in a natural science, forensic science, criminalistics or a closely related field can be substituted for one (1) year of the required work experience.

 

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:

Applicants will be required to undergo a State and national criminal history background investigation which will include a fingerprint check to determine suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification

 

 

09/2012 Date Revised