Under supervision, performs technical forensic work involving the examination, comparison, evaluation, identification, exclusion, and documentation of friction ridge impressions, including fingerprints, latent fingerprints, palm prints, and known impressions. Examines and evaluates latent print evidence using accepted friction ridge examination methodology, including analysis, comparison, evaluation, and verification procedures. Develops, photographs, enhances, preserves, and documents latent print evidence in accordance with departmental policies, laboratory procedures, and applicable forensic standards.
Operates and conducts searches in local, state, and federal automated fingerprint identification systems, including AFIS and the FBI Next Generation Identification system, as authorized. Enters, searches, evaluates, and documents candidate results from AFIS/NGI databases and related fingerprint or palm prints. Fingerprints persons for employment or other authorized purposes for WEB check searches. Assists law enforcement personnel, prosecutors, and other agencies with fingerprint identification matters. Prepares for and provides expert testimony in court regarding latent print examinations, fingerprint identifications, exclusions, inconclusive results and findings. Must be able to clearly and accurately articulate conclusions and withstand cross-examination. Maintains current knowledge of latent print examination practices, AFIS/NGI search procedures, courtroom testimony expectations, professional ethics, quality assurance requirements, and applicable forensic standards through continuing education, training, proficiency testing, and professional development.
Performs other job-related duties as required.
Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Natural Science, or a closely related field preferred. Experience in latent print examination, fingerprint comparison, friction ridge analysis, AFIS/NGI searching, or forensic identification work is preferred.
Current certification as an International Association for Identification Certified Latent Print Examiner is preferred. Candidates who are not currently IAI Certified Latent Print Examiners must meet, or be able to work toward meeting, IAI Latent Print Certification requirements, which may include qualifying education, full-time latent print comparison experience, approved latent print training, courtroom testimony training, successful completion of certification testing, and continued professional development. Must possess knowledge of, or the ability to learn, latent print examination methodology, fingerprint classification, fingerprint and palm print comparison, latent print development and documentation, AFIS/NGI database searching, evidence handling, report writing, and courtroom testimony procedures. Must be able to accurately document findings, prepare clear written reports, communicate technical conclusions, and testify in court as an expert witness. Must possess proficient computer and AFIS/NGI skills. Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills. Valid State of Ohio Driver’s License required.
Must successfully complete any required background investigation, security clearance, training, or system-access requirements necessary to access law enforcement, AFIS, NGI, and related criminal justice information systems. Must have at least 2 years’ experience in Latent Print Identification.
The City's guiding principles are as follows: Placing Clevelanders at the Center, Empowering Employees to Do Purposeful Work, Defining Clear and Pragmatic Objectives, Leading with Trust and Transparency, Striving for Equity in All We Do, and Embracing Change. All City employees are responsible for embracing and carrying out these principles in all that they do
