Crime Scene Specialist

Position Overview

This role involves providing expert crime scene investigation and scientific analysis services supporting public safety entities across Marion County. The specialist aids in developing crime scene forensic protocols, collaborates with local, state, and federal law enforcement to coordinate scene and laboratory operations, and conducts initial evidence examination. They may also offer expert courtroom testimony and ensure compliance with legal, scientific, and accreditation standards. Training new personnel is part of the responsibilities, and independent judgment with minimal supervision is expected throughout the role. The position reports to the Crime Scene Specialist Supervisor.

Agency Information

The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency supports the criminal justice system through diverse forensic services including crime scene processing, latent print examination, blood alcohol and drug analysis, firearms examination, DNA and serology testing, and morgue liaison duties. The agency promotes a compliant and cooperative workplace to meet local community needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The City of Indianapolis and Marion County provide equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veterans status, or disability. Diverse perspectives and experiences are highly valued.

Core Duties

• Conduct forensic investigations at crime scenes, handling evidence collection related to serious crimes such as homicides, sexual assaults, and aggravated assaults, including fingerprint development, DNA sampling, and firearm evidence processing.
• Maintain rigorous quality assurance and control measures aligned with accreditation standards within their laboratory section.
• Provide expert witness testimony in legal proceedings as required.
• Support supervisors by offering technical and procedural guidance to laboratory staff and assist in QA/QC improvements.
• Incorporate emerging forensic and crime scene technologies into current practices.
• Analyze statistical data and ensure laboratory activities comply with scientific, legal, and governmental regulations.
• Suggest procedural enhancements to supervisors to improve section operations.
• Act as the liaison coordinating with various law enforcement agencies to ensure scientific and administrative support at all levels.
• Deliver training to local agencies including evidence technician courses and specialized forensic application seminars across drug chemistry, trace evidence, questioned documents, latent prints, DNA, serology, firearms, and toolmarks.
• Participate in professional development through seminars and conferences to integrate new research and present findings publicly.
• Uphold confidentiality in all aspects of work.

Additional Responsibilities

The listed tasks are not exhaustive and may be expanded as deemed necessary by management.

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Five years of experience in crime scene processing, or law enforcement experience combined with certified training and expertise in digital photography and alternative lighting methods as equivalent education.
• Willingness and capability to complete specialized training programs internally and externally as directed by supervisors and quality assurance guidelines.
• Maintenance of proficiency through annual proficiency testing.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and the ability to manage sensitive evidence confidentially and efficiently.
• Effective communication skills in oral, verbal, and written forms.
• Obligation to attain Crime Scene Certification by the Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board within one year post-training completion.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science, Criminology, or closely related areas in addition to the minimum requirements.

Working Environment

Work mostly occurs in outdoor field settings subject to varying weather and diverse locations, with occasional office-based duties.