The Crime Scene Specialist II performs a variety of technical duties including identifying, collecting, preserving and processing physical evidence at crime scenes and in a laboratory; prepares appropriate reports; assists in criminal investigations; testifies in court; and assists in other duties as assigned. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:This is the journey level class within the Crime Scene Specialist series and is distinguished from the I level by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the I level. The Crime Scene Specialist I may gain experience performing the duties of the II under the direction of the II. You are:The ideal candidate will possess a strong knowledge of crime scene investigation principles; including documentation, processing and evidence collection/preservation. The incumbent must be self-motivated, highly organized, and detail-oriented, with the ability to adapt and perform effectively in high-stress, fast-paced environments. The ideal candidate will possess strong critical thinking skills, sound judgment, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a cohesive team within a crime scene unit. The ideal candidate must communicate effectively, support team objectives, and contribute to a collaborative work environment. Most importantly, the ideal candidate is a consummate professional who demonstrates integrity and a commitment to excellence in public service. Essential Duties What you will do: Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:Perform technical tasks for major/minor crime scenes in the collection and preservation of evidence at a crime scene such as lifting fingerprints, collecting body fluids and clothing, dislodging bullets, and making plaster impressions. Package evidence for storage; ensure proper procedures are followed. Photograph a wide variety of situations to ensure proper documentation of the crime scene. Prepare reports and records of crime scenes and evidence collected; prepares diagrams. Testify in court regarding the crime scene and the evidence collected. Perform duties related to other areas of civilian police activities as necessary. Report to all categories of crime scenes to collect evidence on a 24-hour basis, as needed, recognizing when a higher level of expertise is needed to assist. Perform related work as necessary. Link to full job description: Crime Scene Specialist II Job Specification. CORE COMPETENCIES Knowledge of: Evidence detection and physical/chemical sequential processing to determine when CSS direction is required. Basic report writing. Principles of basic photography. Methods of fingerprint processing. Principles of evidence collection and packaging. Modern office equipment and methods including use of computer applications in word processing, spreadsheet, and databases. Ability to: Learn to perform evidence detection and physical/chemical sequential processing. Learn principles and practices of technical crime scene processing and crime scene reconstruction. Locate, analyze and interpret data related to crime scene work. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Work both as part of a team, and equally well independently. Carry out complex instructions regarding the appropriate collection of differing kinds of evidence. Maintain confidentiality while processing evidence and cases. JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Qualifications You have: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:Experience: Two years of experience comparable to that of a Crime Scene Specialist I with the City of Hayward. Education: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade. Possession of an Associate’s degree or coursework in criminalistics/forensic science, natural science (biology, biochemistry, or chemistry), or a related field is highly desirable. Licenses or Certificates: Possession and maintenance of a valid Class C California Driver's License. Possession of a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified Crime Scene Investigations (formerly Basic Field Evidence Technician) Course Certificate. Possession of or ability to obtain a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified Advanced Crime Scene Investigation (24 hour course) certificate within twelve (12) months of employment. Supplemental Information BENEFITS AND REWARDS:Depending on employee group, some of these benefits may include:Vacation - 80 hours minimum 15.5 Paid Holidays. Generous employer contribution for Health, Dental and Vision coverage. Cal. PERS Defined Benefit Retirement Plan (2.5% at 55 for Classic Cal. PERS members | 2.0% at 62 for New Cal. PERS members | 3.0% at 50 for Classic Safety members | 2.7% at 57 for New Safety Members) - No Social Security participation. Life and Disability Insurance and Paid Leave. Flexible Spending Accounts. Tuition Reimbursement. Health and Wellness Reimbursement. Professional Development Reimbursement 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (employee paid)