Topic: Criminalist/Fingerprint Examiner

[Frans Maritz]

Criminalist
Fingerprint Examiner

Requistion #E29-0120

Agency:  Office of Attorney General, Division of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Laboratory
Salary:  E16-E18  $35,529.66 to $66,324.00 annually, DOQ
Closing Date:  March 13, 2012

Position Purpose:

The Criminalist evaluates, examines, and identifies physical evidence from crime scenes utilizing established, standardized procedures and techniques.  This will include forensic impression evidence (fingerprints, shoeprints, tire prints) and other assigned duties.  The Criminalist will utilize or learn to utilize AFIS and IAFIS; chemical and microscopic techniques; and instrumentation which shall include computers, microscopes, alternative light sources, and forensic photography.  Criminalist documents findings, prepares technical written reports of laboratory examinations, and discusses results with law enforcement officers and attorneys.  Criminalist will provide expert testimony in various courts throughout the State of South Dakota.  This position keeps abreast of scientific advancements in forensic fields by reading technical journals, attending conferences, seminars, and training sessions.  This position responds to requests to collect and process evidence at crime scenes and provides general scientific information as requested by the Lab Director, Director of Criminal Investigation, and the SD Attorney General.  This position also shares general laboratory duties (training, safety, and on call responsibilities), strives to accomplish professional certification, maintains laboratory safety, and participates with laboratory accreditation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:
-   criminalistics and forensic science
-   evidence collection, packaging, and preservation
-   evidence examination and the types of chemicals and methods commonly used in the examination and identification of fingerprints, shoeprints, and tire prints
-   laboratory safety
-   photography as it applies to physical evidence

Ability to:
-   deal tactfully with others
-   utilize laboratory equipment properly
-   prepare and utilize various chemicals
-   conduct a variety of scientific procedures to examine physical evidence
-   communicate both orally and in writing
-   testify in court regarding test results and conclusions




Comments:

The Criminalist position in the Impression Evidence Section requires a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a science degree.  This position is for a qualified fingerprint examiner with the ability to serve as technical leader for the South Dakota Forensic Laboratory Impression Evidence Section.  Training and experience in shoeprint and tire print evidence examination and identification would be beneficial, but is not required.  Current membership with the International Association of Identification (IAI) and IAI Latent Print Examiner certification would be desirable.

To Apply:  Submit a letter of interest, transcripts, and resume or State Employment Application (available February 13, 2012 at a South Dakota Career Center and on the Internet at www.state.sd.us/jobs) to:

Frans Maritz, Director
SD State Forensic Lab
1302 E. Highway 14, Suite 6
Pierre, SD  57501
Phone: (605)773-3673  Fax: (605)773-5658
Email: frans.maritz@state.sd.us

“EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER”