01/04/2022 - AGENDA ITEM 2 - CONSIDERATION OF JOB DESCRIPTIONS AND SALARY GRADES FOR FORENSIC SPECIALIST SERIESAGENDA ITEM NO. 2
AGENDA STAFF REPORT
WEST" ON
DATE: January 4, 2022
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: David Carmany
City Manager
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF JOB
SPECIALIST SERIES
RECOMMENDATION:
City of West Covina I Office of the City Manager
AND SALARY GRADES FOR FORENSIC
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO.2022-04 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE FORENSIC SPECIALIST SERIES
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As part of the City's ongoing process of maintaining its position classification plan, the Human Resources
Department, as needed, reviews class specifications to ensure that our position specifications are in alignment
with current standards, requirements, and qualifications. This review further ensures that required skills,
knowledge and abilities, and essential functions of each classification are in alignment with current demands
and comparable with similar classifications within the public sector labor market.
Staff surveyed the following cities: Azusa, Burbank, Downey, El Monte, Monterey Park, Ontario, Pasadena,
Pomona, and Whittier. As a result of this evaluation, staff is recommending certain changes to the current
Forensics series, which will better position the City to meet current and future needs.
DISCUSSION:
Traditionally, the West Covina Police Department has staffed its Forensic Specialist position with a Sworn
Officer. Although there are investigative benefits to this approach, the tum-over rate due to promotions,
retirements, and career changes, in addition to staffing shortages of sworn personnel, has led the Department to
the creation of a civilian Forensic Specialist Supervisor position. Civilianizing this position will create long-
term stability for the Department's forensic investigative efforts and allow the Department to allocate sworn
personnel to handle the front-line needs of the community.
With an ever-increasing scope of forensic services needed, the creation of the Forensic Specialist Supervisor
position will allow the Department to properly manage and keep up with the growing and changing demands
of forensic investigations. Forensic investigations include but are not limited to fingerprint identification,
crime scene photography and evidence collection, DNA collection, and computer forensic analysis. These
tasks enhance the Department's ability to investigate and solve crimes, bringing closure to victims and
providing a higher quality of police services to our community. Aside from having the knowledge and skills to
perform these tasks, the Forensic Specialist Supervisor will be tasked with training and supervising the civilian
positions within the organization who are responsible for performing investigative forensic functions. The
Forensic Specialist Supervisor will also be tasked with ensuring the Department is progressing into the future
and staying current with trends and available technology pertaining to forensics; to include preparing for
laboratory upgrades and State forensic investigation accreditation.
Additionally, to assist with meeting the ever-increasing scope of work related to forensic services and to create
a pathway for professional growth, the Department is proposing the addition of the Senior Forensics Specialist
position. The purpose of the Senior Forensics Specialist position will be to train and mentor the
Forensic Specialist, act as the lead forensic investigator, be responsible for crime scene management, and serve
in an acting supervisory capacity in the absence of the Forensic Specialist Supervisor.
The proposed salary grades for the new positions are as follows:
Position Title Pargaining Unit Salary Grad Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
orensic Specialist on -Sworn Safety Support Sxxx $5,329 $5,609 $5,904 $6,215 $6,542
Senior Forensic Specialist on -Sworn Safety Support Sxxx $6,427 $6,765 $7,121$7,496 $7,890
orensic Specialist Supervise id -Management Mxxx $7,995 $8,395 $8,815 $9,256 $9,719
These items were approved by the West Covina Non -Sworn Safety Support Employees' union and the West
Covina Middle Management Employees' Association.
On December 15, 2021, the Human Resources Commission approved the Forensic Specialist series.
LEGAL REVIEW:
The City Attorney's Office has reviewed the resolution and approved it as to form.
Prepared by: Helen Tran, Dir of HR & Risk Management
Attachments
Attachment No. 1 - Resolution No. 2022-04 - Forensic Series
Attachment No. 2 Exhibit A Proposed Forensic Specialist
Attachment No. 3 Exhibit B Proposed Senior Forensic Specialist
Attachment No. 4 Exhibit C Proposed Forensic Specialist Supervisor
CITY Protect Public Safety
COUNCIL Enhance City Image and Effectiveness
GOALS &
OBJECTIVES:
ATTACHMENT NO. 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2022-04
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE
FORENSIC SPECIALIST SERIES
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST COVINA HEREBY FINDS,
DETERMINES, AND DECLARES AS FOLLOWS:
WHEREAS, the Human Resources Department, as needed, reviews class
specifications and/or pay grades to ensure position specifications and compensation are in
alignment with current demands and comparable with similar classifications within the public
sector labor market; and
WHEREAS, the Human Resources Department reviewed the specification and
compensation for the Forensic Specialist and determined updates to such specification and
compensation are needed to meet current industry standards relating to minimum
qualifications, duties, and responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, the Human Resources Department also determined it was necessary to
establish a new Senior Forensic Specialist classification and a new Forensic Specialist
Supervisor classification to increase efficiency, provide consistency in supervision, and
create a path for professional growth within the Police Department; and
WHEREAS, on December 15, 2021, the Human Resources Commission reviewed
and approved the update of the existing class specification for the Forensic Specialist as set
forth in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein, and establishing the new Senior
Forensic Specialist and Forensic Specialist Supervisor classifications and specifications as
set forth in Exhibits B and C, respectively, attached hereto and incorporated herein; and
WHEREAS, on December 15, 2021, the Human Resources Commission also
reviewed and approved the salary grades for the new Senior Forensic Specialist and the
new Forensic Specialist Supervisor classifications, and adjusting the salary range for the
Forensic Specialist classification; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to approve the updated Forensic Specialist
specification and the establishment of the Senior Forensic Specialist and Forensic Specialist
Supervisor classifications and the specifications for said classifications; and
WHEREAS, the City Council also desires to approve the new salary grades for the
Forensic Specialist, Senior Forensic Specialist, and Forensic Specialist Supervisor
classifications.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST COVINA,
CALIFORNIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council hereby approves the update to the existing class
specification for the Forensic Specialist as set forth in Exhibit A and the establishment of the
Senior Forensic Specialist and Forensic Specialist Supervisor classifications and the
specifications for said classifications as set forth in Exhibits B and C, respectively.
SECTION 2. The City Council hereby approves the following new salary grades for
the Forensic Specialist, Senior Forensic Specialist, and Forensic Specialist Supervisor
classifications:
Classification
Monthly Pay Range
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Forensic Specialist
$5,329
$5,609
$5,904
$6,215
$6,542
Senior Forensic
$6,427
$6,765
$7,121
$7,496
$7,890
Specialist
Forensic Specialist
$7 995
$8,395
$8,815
$9,256
$9,719
Supervisor
SECTION 3. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution and shall
enter the same in the book of original resolutions and it shall become effective immediately.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 4th day of January, 2022.
APPROVED AS TO FORM
Thomas P. Duarte
City Attorney
Dario Castellanos
Mayor
ATTEST
Lisa Sherrick
Assistant City Clerk
I, LISA SHERRICK, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK of the City of West Covina, California,
do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2022-04 was duly adopted by the City
Council of the City of West Covina, California, at a regular meeting thereof held on the 4th
day of January, 2022, by the following vote of the City Council:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Lisa Sherrick
Assistant City Clerk
EXHIBIT A
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EXHIBIT C
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EXHIBIT A
PROPOSED
CITY OF WEST COVINA
CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION
Class Title: FORENSIC SPECIALIST
Bargaining Unit: NON -SWORN SAFETY SUPPORT
Class Code: FOREN SPEC
Salary Grade: NS003
Salary: $55,24 8 $67,164 $63,948.00 - $78,504.00
FLSA: NON-EXEMPT
Date Updated:
JOB SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the department's Forensic Investigative Unit, performs non -sworn
crime investigation work to include field, office, and laboratory assignments at a variety of
crime scenes. Use chemical, microscopic, instrumental, and physical methods of analysis.
Fingerprint comparisons and identifications. Responsible for preparing written reports on
findings. Serving in Courtroom testimony and conducting research regarding new
technologies, equipment, and techniques. Assist with Detective Bureau investigations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Process complex crime scenes requiring specialized techniques in detection,
recognition, documentation, collection, interpretation, and preservation of physical
evidence associated with crime scenes to include all types of friction skin evidence,
trace evidence, and biological evidence.
2. Develops, collects, and preserves latent fingerprints by applying various powders,
chemical processes and utilizing alternate light source technology.
3. Documents crime scene investigations and accident locations by conventional and
digital photography.
4. Takes aerial photographs and video tapes of crime scenes.
5. Diagrams (includes digital diagraming software and equipment) and measures crime
scenes.
6. Makes impressions of shoeprints, tire tracks and other objects at crime scenes.
7. Downloads digital images and produces digital photographs using applicable
software.
8. Prepares and enters latent fingerprints into the Los Angles Automated Fingerprint
Identification System (LAFIS), IAFIS, and other AFIS systems. Compares AFIS
results.
9. Responsible for analyzing, comparing, and evaluating developed latent prints for the
purposes of identification by comparing the latent prints with known record
impressions of an individual.
10. Collects evidence involving but not limited to, fingerprinting, DNA, fingernail scrapings,
gunshot residue, and other evidence from witnesses, victims, and suspects in custody
(If deceased, referred to Coroner's Office).
11. Collects evidence required for sexual assault investigations (Not SART Kits) in
conjunction with the Sexual Assault Response Team, to including detailed
photography.
Forensic Specialist - PROPOSED
Page 2 of 3
12. Responsible for collecting, transporting, processing, and booking evidence.
13. Responsible for the chain of custody, security, and control of evidence while it is in the
possession of the Crime Lab.
14. Prepares court exhibits to depict crime scenes, including latent print comparison
charts.
15. Presents results of forensic investigations in criminal cases by providing technically
competent expert testimony on comparisons of friction skin evidence, photography,
and evidence collection.
16. Prepares detailed reports of investigations and/or forensic examinations.
17. Performs administrative and law enforcement support activities.
18. Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of the position are performed in a safe,
efficient manner.
19. Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS
Required Knowledge
• LAFIS/IAFIS/AFIS computer systems and operations.
• Crime scene investigation procedures.
• Fingerprint identification procedures and classification systems.
• Forensic science as it applies to the collection and preservation of physical and
biological evidence.
• Photographic equipment.
• Photographic and video techniques.
• Principles and practices of collecting and preserving crime scene evidence.
• Principles and practices of lifting and preserving latent fingerprints.
• Procedures, practices and laws regarding the collection, preservation, and integrity of
evidence.
• Protocols and procedures of courtroom testimony.
• Report writing.
Required Abilities
Download color digital images to the digital management system for output to storage
media and printers.
• Effectively testify as an expert witness in court.
• Establish smooth working relationships and resolve interpersonal conflicts.
• Perform complex latent fingerprint recovery and print comparison work.
• Print photographs using various processing equipment.
• Take photographs using conventional and/or digital cameras.
• Create Power Point presentations.
• Maintain forensic equipment.
• Develop training materials and coordinate such training for employees.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Graduation from high school or attainment GED. Associate of Arts Degree from an accredited
Forensic Specialist - PROPOSED
Page 3 of 3
college or Bachelor of Arts Degree in police science, forensics or related field are desirable.
Experience
Five (5) years recent experience in crime scene investigation and latent print comparison may
be substituted for the educational requirement. Two (2) years recent experience in crime
scene investigation and latent print comparison.
Licenses/ Certificates/ Special Requirements
Successful completion of the state -mandated CLETS training program as required by
the California State Department of Justice within six months of date of employment
and ongoing maintenance of CLETS certification.
Certification as a Latent Print Examiner and/or Crime Scene Technician or Analyst is
highly desirable.
Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's
Moto Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, crawling,
climbing ladders and incl9nes, and moving objects weighing up to 50 pounds. May be
required to independently work crime scene investigations either without supervision or
without sworn police presence. Incumbents must be able to meet the physical requirements
of the class and have mobility, vision, hearing and dexterity levels appropriate to the duties
to be performed.
Work Environment
Work is performed in a variety of locations to include on -site work at crime scenes, hospitals,
and in the Police Department. Work is performed in indoor and outdoor environments. When
works is performed outdoors, there is full exposure to the elements. The incumbent may be
exposed to related health hazards to include blood and other bodily fluids/products, infectious
diseases, human borne parasites, air, water, and blood borne pathogens, and may have
contact with complete and/or partial human corpses in various stages of decomposition. Other
health hazards may include odors, toxic chemicals, and
hazardous substances. Occasionally, work is performed within confined areas or high
altitudes, including photography from helicopters.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
The City of West Covina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans
with Disabilities Act, the city will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals
with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential
accommodations with the employer.
"On -Call compensation for position subject to future meet and confer process.
EXHIBIT B
PROPOSED
CITY OF WEST COVINA
CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION
Class Title:
SENIOR FORENSIC SPECIALIST
Bargaining Unit:
NON -SWORN SAFETY SUPPORT
Class Code:
SR FOREN SPEC
Salary Grade:
NSXXX
Salary:
$77,124-$94,680
FLSA:
NON-EXEMPT
Date Updated:
JOB SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the Forensic Supervisor, practices non -sworn crime investigation
work to include field, office, and laboratory assignments at a variety of crime scenes.
Responds to process active crime scenes and assists Detective Bureau investigations. Use
chemical, microscopic, instrumental, and physical methods to analyze various items of
evidence. Conducts fingerprint comparisons and identifications. Responsible for preparing
written reports on findings and provides subsequent courtroom testimony. Conducts research
regarding new technologies, equipment, and techniques to enhance the forensic identification
unit. Acts as trainer and mentor for Forensic Specialist, which may include handling
supervisory functions in the absence of the Forensic Specialist Supervisor.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may
be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the
position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.
1. Train and mentor Crime Scene Assistants
2. Acts as a quazi-supervisor and participates in processing complex crime scenes
requiring specialized techniques in detection, recognition, documentation,
collection, interpretation, and preservation of physical evidence associated with
crime scenes to include all types of friction skin evidence, trace evidence, and
biological evidence.
3. Provides guidance to staff in resolving difficult technical problems.
4. May be assigned to reviews and evaluates completed work assignments.
5. Oversees progress of assigned case work and status backlogs.
6. Develop and/or update Section policies & procedures.
7. Makes recommendations concerning the procurement of equipment.
8. Trains personnel in collection and preservation of evidence.
9. Communicates with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, and
identification units.
10. Develops, collects, and preserves latent fingerprints by applying various powders,
chemical processes and utilizing alternate light source technology.
11. Collects evidence involving but not limited to, fingerprinting, DNA, fingernail
scrapings (if deceased refereed to Coroner's Office), gunshot residue, and other
evidence from witnesses, victims, and suspects in custody.
Senior Forensic Specialist - PROPOSED
Page 2 of 4
12. Documents crime scene investigations and traffic collision scenes by digital
photography and through the use of diagraming software and equipment.
13. Takes aerial photographs and video tapes of crime scenes.
14. Diagrams and measures crime scenes.
15. Makes impressions of shoeprints, tire tracks and other objects at crime scenes.
16. Downloads digital images and produces digital photographs using applicable
software.
17. Conducts comparative analysis of latent prints to inked or digitally captured prints,
which includes preparing and entering latent fingerprints in the Automated
Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
18. Collects evidence required for sexual assault investigations (Not SART Exam Kits)
including detailed photography.
19. Collects, transports, processes, and books evidence.
20. Maintains chain of custody, security, and control of evidence while it is in the
possession of the Crime Lab.
21. May be designated to supervise the preparation and/or prepares court exhibits to
depict crime scenes, including latent print comparison charts.
22. Presents results of forensic investigations in criminal cases by providing technically
competent expert testimony on comparisons of friction skin evidence,
photography, and evidence collection.
23. Approves and/or prepares detailed reports of investigations and/or forensic
examinations.
24. Performs administrative and law enforcement support activities.
25. Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of the position are performed in a
safe, efficient manner.
26. Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge ok
1. LAFIS/IAFIS/AFIS computer systems and operations
2. Crime scene investigations procedures
3. Fingerprint identification procedures and classification systems
4. Photographic equipment
5. Photographic and video techniques
6. Principles and practices of collecting and preserving crime scene evidence.
7. Principles and practices of lifting and preserving latent fingerprints
8. Forensic science procedures, practices and laws regarding the collection,
preservation, and integrity of physical and biological evidence
9. Protocols and procedures of courtroom testimony
10. Report writing
11. Basic leadership and supervisory principles
Ability to:
1. Train and effectively communicate with others and establish smooth working
relationships to resolve interpersonal conflicts
2. Download color digital images to the digital management system for output to storage
media and printers
Senior Forensic Specialist - PROPOSED
Page 3 of 4
3. Effectively testify as an expert witness in court
4. Workday/afternoon/night/split shifts, weekends, overtime, holidays and on -call
5. Perform complex latent fingerprint recovery and print comparison work
6. Print photographs using various processing equipment
7. Take photographs using digital cameras
8. Create presentations based pm forensic findings
9. Procure and maintain forensic equipment
10. Develop training materials and coordinate such training for employees
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, Training, and Experience
Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills,
and abilities to perform the essential job duties of the position is qualifying. Incumbents will
possess the most desirable combination of training, skills, and experience as demonstrated
by their past and current employment.
Graduation from high school or attainment of GED. Associate of Arts Degree from an
accredited college or Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree in police science, forensics or
related field is desirable.
Two (2) years of full-time, paid experience in crime scene investigation, including identification
techniques, examining latent fingerprints, latent print comparison, fingerprinting and
photography of crime scenes with a law enforcement or similar agency.
Licenses/ Certificates/ Special Requirements
1. A valid California Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record is required.
2. Successful completion of the state -mandated CLETS training program as required by
the California State Department of Justice within six months of date of employment
and ongoing maintenance of CLETS certification.
3. Certification as a Latent Print Examiner and/or Crime Scene Technician or Analyst is
highly desirable.
4. Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's
Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions. Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting,
crawling, climbing ladders and inclines, and moving objects weighing up to 50 pounds. May
be required to independently work crime scene investigations. Incumbents must be able to
meet the physical requirements of the class and have the mobility, vision, hearing, and
dexterity levels appropriate to the duties to be performed.
Senior Forensic Specialist - PROPOSED
Page 4 of 4
Work Environment
Work is performed in a variety of locations to include on -site work at crime scenes, hospitals,
and in the Police Department. Work is performed in indoor and outdoor environments. When
work is performed outdoors, there is a full exposure to the elements. The incumbent may be
exposed to related health hazards to include blood and other bodily fluids/products, infectious
diseases, human borne parasites, air, water, and blood borne pathogens. The incumbent
may have contact with complete and/or partial human corpses in various stages of
decomposition. Other health hazards may include odors, toxic chemicals, and hazardous
substances. Occasionally, work is performed within confined areas or high altitudes, including
photography from helicopters.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
The City of West Covina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans
with Disabilities Act, the city will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals
with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential
accommodations with the employer.
*On -call compensation for position subject to future meet and confer process.
EXHIBIT C
PROPOSED
CITY OF WEST COVINA
CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION
Class Title: FORENSIC SPECIALIST SUPERVISOR
Bargaining Unit: MID MANAGEMENT
Class Code: FOREN SPEC SUP
Salary Grade:
Salary:
FLSA:
Date Updated:
JOB SUMMARY
MMXXX
$95,940.00 - $116,628.00
EXEMPT
Supervises and practices non -sworn crime investigation work to include field, office, and
laboratory assignments at a variety of crime scenes. Responds to process active crime
scenes and assists Detective Bureau investigations. Use chemical, microscopic,
instrumental, and physical methods to analyze various items of evidence. Conducts
fingerprint comparisons and identifications. Responsible for preparing written reports on
findings and provides subsequent courtroom testimony. Conducts research regarding new
technologies, equipment, and techniques to enhance the forensic identification unit.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may
be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the
position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.
1. Supervises Crime Scene Assistants
2. Supervises and participates in processing complex crime scenes requiring
specialized techniques in detection, recognition, documentation, collection,
interpretation, and preservation of physical evidence associated with crime scenes
to include all types of friction skin evidence, trace evidence, and biological
evidence.
3. Prepares employee performance evaluations.
4. Provides guidance to staff in resolving difficult technical problems.
5. Reviews and evaluates completed work assignments.
6. Oversees progress of assigned case work and status backlogs.
7. Investigate and make recommendations for disciplinary action, if necessary.
8. Develop and/or update Section policies & procedures.
9. Makes recommendations concerning the procurement of equipment.
10. Trains personnel in collection and preservation of evidence.
11. Communicates with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, and
identification units.
12. Develops, collects, and preserves latent fingerprints by applying various powders,
chemical processes and utilizing alternate light source technology.
13. Collects evidence involving but not limited to, fingerprinting, DNA, fingernail
scrapings if deceased refer to Coroner's Office), gunshot residue, and other
evidence from witnesses, victims, and suspects in custody.
Forensic Specialist Supervisor - PROPOSED
Page 2 of 4
14. Supervises and documents crime scene investigations and traffic collision scenes
by digital photography and diagraming software and equipment.
15. Takes aerial photographs and video tapes of crime scenes.
16. Diagrams and measures crime scenes.
17. Makes impressions of shoeprints, tire tracks and other objects at crime scenes.
18. Downloads digital images and produces digital photographs using applicable
software.
19. Conducts comparative analysis of latent prints to inked or digitally captured prints,
which includes preparing and entering latent fingerprints in the Automated
Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
20. Collects evidence required for sexual assault investigations (Not SART Exam Kits)
including detailed photography.
21. Collects, transports, processes, and books evidence.
22. Maintains chain of custody, security, and control of evidence while it is in the
possession of the Crime Lab.
23. Supervises the preparation and/or prepares court exhibits to depict crime scenes,
including latent print comparison charts.
24. Presents results of forensic investigations in criminal cases by providing technically
competent expert testimony on comparisons of friction skin evidence,
photography, and evidence collection.
25. Approves and/or prepares detailed reports of investigations and/or forensic
examinations.
26. Performs administrative and law enforcement support activities.
27. Assumes responsibility for ensuring the duties of the position are performed in a
safe, efficient manner.
28. Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation requires.
GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge ok
1. LAFIS/IAFIS/AFIS computer systems and operations
2. Crime scene investigations procedures
3. Fingerprint identification procedures and classification systems
4. Photographic equipment
5. Photographic and video techniques
6. Principles and practices of collecting and preserving crime scene evidence.
7. Principles and practices of lifting and preserving latent fingerprints
8. Forensic science procedures, practices and laws regarding the collection,
preservation, and integrity of physical and biological evidence
9. Protocols and procedures of courtroom testimony
10. Report writing
11. Basic leadership and supervisory principles
Ability to:
1. Supervise, train, and effectively communicate with others and establish smooth
working relationships to resolve interpersonal conflicts
2. Download color digital images to the digital management system for output to
storage media and printers
Forensic Specialist Supervisor - PROPOSED
Page 3 of 4
3. Effectively testify as an expert witness in court
4. Workday/afternoon/night/split shifts, weekends, overtime, holidays and on -call
5. Perform complex latent fingerprint recovery and print comparison work
6. Print photographs using various processing equipment
7. Take photographs using digital cameras
8. Create presentations based pm forensic findings
9. Procure and maintain forensic equipment
10. Develop training materials and coordinate such training for employees
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, Training, and Experience
Any combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills,
and abilities to perform the essential job duties of the position is qualifying. Incumbents will
possess the most desirable combination of training, skills, and experience as demonstrated
by their past and current employment.
Graduation from high school or attainment of GED. Associate of Arts Degree from an
accredited college or Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree in police science, forensics or
related field is desirable.
Four years of full-time, paid experience in crime scene investigation, including identification
techniques, examining latent fingerprints, latent print comparison, fingerprinting and
photography of crime scenes with a law enforcement or similar agency.
Licenses/ Certificates/ Special Requirements
1. A valid California Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record is required.
2. Successful completion of the state -mandated CLETS training program as required
by the California State Department of Justice within six months of date of
employment and ongoing maintenance of CLETS certification.
3. Certification as a Latent Print Examiner and/or Crime Scene Technician or Analyst is
highly desirable.
4. Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's
Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this class. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the
essential functions. Physical demands include frequent standing, walking, bending,
reaching, lifting, crawling, climbing ladders and inclines, and moving objects weighing up to
50 pounds. May be required to independently work crime scene investigations. Incumbents
must be able to meet the physical requirements of the class and have the mobility, vision,
hearing, and dexterity levels appropriate to the duties to be performed.
Forensic Specialist Supervisor - PROPOSED
Page 4 of 4
Work Environment
Work is performed in a variety of locations to include on -site work at crime scenes, hospitals,
and in the Police Department. Work is performed in indoor and outdoor environments. When
work is performed outdoors, there is a full exposure to the elements. The incumbent may be
exposed to related health hazards to include blood and other bodily fluids/products, infectious
diseases, human borne parasites, air, water, and blood borne pathogens. The incumbent
may have contact with complete and/or partial human corpses in various stages of
decomposition. Other health hazards may include odors, toxic chemicals, and hazardous
substances. Occasionally, work is performed within confined areas or high altitudes, including
photography from helicopters.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
The City of West Covina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans
with Disabilities Act, the city will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals
with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential
accommodations with the employer.
*On -call compensation subject to future meet and confer process.