Classification Specifications

Job Class Specification for:
LATENT PRINT EXAMINER

Class Specification Schematic Number: 4155605

Class Summary:

Positions in this class perform technical tasks such as latent print comparisons, process evidence and crime scenes for latent prints; teach fingerprint and latent print collection and preservation techniques to Police Officers, Detectives and Identification Technicians; train entry level Latent Print Examiners; enter latent prints into the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS); and photographs latent prints in conjunction with these processes.

Distinguishing Characteristics of the Class:

Positions in this class perform assignments under the limited supervision of the Latent Print Supervisor.  Employees in this class also provide guidance to less experienced personnel and perform the more difficult and complex operations of AFIS,  The Latent Print Examiner responds to process finger and latent print evidence at crime scenes, (etc.) as directed by the Latent Print Supervisor and testifies in courts of law as expert witness regarding the results of findings.  The work of the Latent Print Examiner requires use of chemical, physical, optical, and computerized techniques of scientific analysis to locate, recover, preserve, compare, and identify friction ridge details (fingerprints).  Latent Print Examiners are required to use individual judgment and expertise in daily operations.  Sole responsibility for identifications rests with the individual examiner.

The position requires a working knowledge of the Henry Classification and NCIC Systems, forensic photographic, alternate light source and digital imaging technology, including the ability to perform low-level maintenance, proper safety procedures for the handling of hazardous, caustic, flammable and/or carcinogenic chemicals frequently used in latent fingerprint work and history, theory and practice of latent print science.  A thorough knowledge of automated and manual identification methodology is required along with the ability to perform all necessary job functions related to AFIS, including knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures and chain of custody requirements.  The Latent Print Supervisor sets work priorities and deadlines.  Positions are responsible for resolving most problems according to procedures but unusual problems are discussed with supervisor.  Frequently works in different location from supervisor.  Personal contacts include members of the public, prosecutors and defense attorneys, crime suspects, departmental employees for the purposes of performing fingerprint activities and law enforcement personnel in the exchange of information or to coordinate the activities of crime scene collection and preservation activities.

Examples of Work:

  • Locate, develop, recover, and preserve latent impressions on a wide variety of materials and surfaces by using physical, chemical, electronic, and optical techniques appropriately.

  • Administer infrared, ultraviolet, and other special forensic photographic procedures, including digital imaging devices, as necessary. 

  • Evaluate and enter suitable latent prints into AFIS by photographing, determining the minutiae, identifying position, tracing, and inputting the impression.

  • Determine identifications and non-identifications by comparison and verification of each latent print to AFIS candidate lists

  • Write detailed reports concerning results of analysis performed.

  • Testify in criminal legal proceedings concerning methods of analysis and results obtained.

  • Recover fingerprints, palm prints, and footprints from deceased and/or decomposed bodies, victims of crimes and potentially violent suspects.

  • Provide training to law enforcement personnel concerning the proper collection and preservation of physical evidence, which may contain latent prints.

  • Train Identification Technicians in the proper collection, preservation, and documentation of latent print evidence.

  • Collect and preserve latent prints and other physical evidence under potentially adverse conditions at the scenes of major crimes; homicides, sex offenses, kidnapping, robberies, etc.

  • Performs other related duties of a comparable level/type as assigned.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Requires responding to process crime scenes for latent print evidence during off-duty shift hours.  Requires standing, walking, or bending for extended periods. Requires handling or working with n hazardous substances (i.e., blood, other body fluids and various hazardous chemicals).  Requires contact with potentially abusive/threatening people in the process of obtaining fingerprints.  Requires the ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

Minimum Qualifications:

Requires a bachelor of science degree with a major in forensic science, criminalistics, physical or natural science and a minimum of two years experience in latent print examinations and processing of evidence.  Technical experience in a forensic laboratory or in the identification and analysis of fingerprints can substitute for up to two years of college education.

Licensing and Other Requirements:

Current Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility.  Satisfy a Seattle Police Department background investigation.  Must obtain a Washington State ACCESS/WACIS certificate, within one year of employment.

Comments:

This description was prepared to indicate the kinds of activities and levels of work difficulty required of positions in this class.  It is not intended as a complete list of specific duties and responsibilities.

Class History:

Class adopted January 2, 1991.
Previous class, Senior Identification Technician #4155505.
Revised 4/24/96 - changed schematic number from #4155604 and language change effective 1/2/91.
Revised 5/30/02.

Date posted 9/10/2002

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Page: http://www.seattle.gov/personnel/resources/specifications.asp
Printed: 5/24/2013 10:11PM