Latent Fingerprint Examiner (Legal)

Salary Range: $42,553-$68,510  FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Essential Functions:

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Evaluates the quality of latents submitted and developed to determine if they are of sufficient value for identification and of sufficient quality to conduct an AFIS search.

Analyzes diverse items submitted by various criminal justice agencies and other State agencies for the detection, preservation and identification of latent prints using highly technical processes, both chemical and mechanical for detecting invisible impressions on widely varied surfaces.

Compares fragmentary prints with known prints and makes the critical determination of whether prints are from the same individual; examines deceased hands, fingers and pieces of skin for the purpose of establishing the positive identification of the deceased person; and prepares reports on results of examinations conducted.

Presents expert testimony in criminal courts as to the results of latent print comparison; qualifies each time in court as an expert witness, providing the courts with an opinion based on observable data and the incumbent's proven forensic judgment; secures the credibility of testimony under cross examination; and prepares court exhibits and preserves by photographic processes material potentially significant for analysis and court preparation.

Instructs various public safety personnel in the collection and preservation of latent fingerprints, physical evidence, and in the recording of fingerprints and footprints

Minimum Qualifications:  

High School Diploma or GED required; two years of experience performing work comparable to that of an investigative aide for law enforcement; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. 

Specific License or Certification Required: Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license and GCIC/NCIC certification as a Basic Terminal Operator within 6 months of being hired. 

Supplemental Information:

Police Department Preferred Qualifications:

•High School Diploma or GED required; Associate's degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or related field preferred.
• A comparable amount of education and experience may be substituted for the minimum requirements.
• The preferred candidate, having met the minimum requirements, will have experience in fingerprint analysis.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license.

• Must be able to obtain GCIC/NCIC certification as a Basic Terminal Operator upon being hired.
• Candidates selected for this position will be required to obtain certification as a Latent Print Examiner through the International Association for Identification (IAI) within twelve (12) months of becoming eligible to do so and are required to maintain such certification as an ongoing condition of employment.