Forensic Specialist

SALARY: $23.2914 – $28.6999, Hourly (DOE&Q) NON-EXEMPT
OPENING DATE: 09/25/2025
CLOSING DATE: 10/02/2025, 5 pm

JOB SUMMARY
To perform technical work in the investigation of crime scenes as assigned; to identify, collect, and process physical evidence; to photograph crime / accident scenes, process film / photographs, and to classify, file, obtain fingerprints and the processing of sex offenders.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Reports to the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Investigations Division (C.I.D.). Supervision may be received from ranking police personnel, as delegated by the C.I.D. Commander. May exercise lead supervision over technical and clerical personnel at crime scenes.

EXAMPLES OF IMPORTANT RESPONSIBLITIES AND DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Respond to crime and accident scenes; photograph crime and accident scenes; dust and lift latent fingerprints.

Conduct crime scene searches for physical evidence; process evidence collected; maintain proper chain of custody and possession; accurately tag and identify physical evidence.

Process film, print negatives and prepare reports for use in criminal prosecution.

Classify fingerprints; compare fingerprints for identification purpose; testify in court as to fingerprint identification.

Testify in court regarding evidence found, chain of custody and disposition of evidence.

Operate the department’s mobile crime scene processing vehicle.

Deliver evidence to the regional crime laboratory, when necessary, for chemical, serological and ballistics testing.
Deliver/pickup latent prints from the Beaumont Police Department’s Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).

Processing of Sex Offenders.

Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:
Safe working practices.

Basic math and the ability to make proper liquid/chemical measurements

Basic computer operation.

Ability to:
Fundamentally apply principles of crime scene search and accident investigation.

Perform basic photography (35mm and dark room equipment operation).

Expose, process and print photographic films.

Create and maintain accurate records. Create and provide accurate and complete timely reports.

Learn to classify and file fingerprints and to make identifications from latent fingerprint comparisons.

Learn applicable laws, rules of evidence and Police Department Policies and Procedures.

Work independently in the absence of supervision.

Present accurate testimony in court.

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Become proficient in latent print examination and obtain International Association of
Identification certification (IAI).

Attend and assist a forensic pathologist in the handling of a human corpse during an autopsy.

Conduct crime scene investigation whereby a human corpse is present or where there are human remains, blood, tissue or bones. To be able to pick-up or handle human remains, blood, tissue, bone or other body fluids, for proper collection, handling and preserving for testing.

Work on a flexible schedule.

Maintain mental capacity, which allows the capabilities to:

• exercise sound judgment and rational thinking under stressful circumstances.
• evaluate various options and alternatives and choose an appropriate and reasonable course of action.
• prepare complex policies and recommendations.
• effectively supervise personnel.
• operate effectively in an economically and culturally diverse environment.

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:

• making observations.
• reading and writing.
• operating assigned equipment.
• communicating with others.

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities that may include the following:

• running, walking, crawling, or standing for extended periods of time.
• functioning in awkward or potentially uncomfortable positions.
• lifting moderately heavy materials.
• climbing ladders or stairs.
• moving loads of approximately 25-75 pounds.

Effectively deal with personal danger that may include exposure to:

• hazardous and toxic chemicals and materials
• paint fumes
• various weather conditions
• high work places
• loud noises
• hazards associated with traffic control and working in and near traffic
• human remains in various states of decomposition or dismemberment.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES - Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

Experience:
Forensic Specialist, police or related experience preferred.

Training:
Possession of a high school diploma or GED, accompanied by the equivalent of thirty (30) college hours is preferred.

Continuing education courses in this field as needed.

License or Certificate:
Possession of, of ability to obtain, a valid Texas Driver’s License, within (30) thirty days of appointment.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, the International Association of Identification (IAI) Certification, within twelve (12) months of appointment.

Forensic Specialist – Police Department – Posting #25-058.

CITY OF PORT ARTHUR
Attn: Hiring Manager
P.O. Box 1089
Port Arthur, Texas 77641-1089
(EEO/AA/V/F/RC/H)
The City of Port Arthur is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer