Latent Print Examiner

About the position

The position is a full-time, permanent role within the Police Department, specifically focused on the classification and analysis of latent fingerprint evidence. The individual will be responsible for identifying and eliminating suspects in criminal justice matters through detailed analysis and verification of fingerprint evidence. This role requires maintaining and protecting criminal evidence, preparing lab reports, and testifying in court regarding findings. The position also involves training and lecturing on fingerprint technology at local educational institutions.

Responsibilities

• Classifies and compares latent fingerprint evidence to identify and eliminate suspects of crimes.
• Analyzes, compares, evaluates, and verifies latent print evidence to identify and/or eliminate subjects in criminal justice matters.
• Contacts appropriate authorities once verification is made and prepares lab reports.
• Evaluates latent fingerprint evidence for possible value.
• Processes evidence for possible latent fingerprints using powders or chemicals, and then photographs evidence.
• Maintains and protects criminal evidence in personal custody.
• Testifies in court regarding latent fingerprint evidence identifications.
• Prepares exhibits and charts for court presentations.
• Maintains latent fingerprint evidence files.
• Maintains supplies used in processing crime scenes for the Evidence Technician Unit.
• Uses state and federal Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems.
• Regularly provides identification services to other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
• Lectures and trains on the science of fingerprint technology to the St. Louis Police Academy and other local educational institutions.
• Classifies searches and compares fingerprints on arrested and potential suspects for identification.
• Performs name and fingerprint identification checks and notifies the appropriate authorities.
• Fingerprints unconscious or deceased subjects to establish identity.
• Fingerprints and photographs subjects in accordance with established procedures.

Requirements

• Ability to perform basic level of data analysis including reviewing, classifying, categorizing, and prioritizing data.
• Ability to provide guidance and assistance to coworkers and the public on applying policies and procedures.
• Ability to operate and adjust equipment such as computers, cameras, and fingerprint magnifiers.
• Ability to utilize a variety of reference and descriptive data and information.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical operations and calculations.
• Ability to interpret instructions in various forms and exercise independent judgment.
• Ability to evaluate information against measurable criteria.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull samples weighing up to twenty (20) pounds.
• Ability to recognize and identify similarities or differences in colors and shapes.