WEST MIDLANDS POLICE

JOB DESCRIPTION

LPU/DEPARTMENT
Force CID / POST NUMBER: 47/14
SECTION:
Major Crime Lab – FSU / POST TITLE:
Forensic Technician
GRADE:
Band C / DATE:

1 JOB PURPOSE

To provide support in the scientific examination of crime scenes and exhibits to support West Midlands Police investigations, within the Major Crime Laboratory.

To assist in the recovery and processing of scientific evidence, both at crime scenes and within the laboratory, to support the objectives of the Forensic Services Unit and drive the Unit towards excellence within the field of forensic evidence recovery and interpretation.

2. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

v  To receive, record and examine exhibits recovered from major crime scenes.

v  To operate force systems to record, update and case track all activity on submissions.

v  To ensure the integrity and continuity of all evidence is maintained.

v  To search for blood on recovered material, utilising low power microscopy.

v  To recover blood stains by means of cutting and swabbing.

v  To search for other human body fluids and tissues on recovered materials.

v  To provide practical support to Forensic Scientists examining major crimes.

v  To carry out examinations for all trace evidence within a sterile evidence room.

v  To prepare and present evidence in court.

v  To ensure good practice relating to Health & Safety and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH).

v  To support and work within a Quality Management System and fully understand the requirements and benefits of Forensic regulation and accreditation.

v  To perform internal audits as required in line with Quality Management System.

v  To maintain a clean, operational working environment.

v  To attend and pass any appropriate training courses.

3. QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

Essential Criteria

·  Must have a good level of knowledge and operational experience in the field of forensic science.

·  Must possess excellent interpersonal, communication and organisational skills.

·  Must demonstrate excellent presentation skills.

·  Must have completed or willing to work towards relevant forensic courses.

·  Must demonstrate a practical approach to problem solving and a willingness to accept responsibility.

Desirable criteria

·  Practical understanding of COSHH regulations.

·  Practical understanding of ISO 17025 and other relevant forensic regulation standards.

4. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

None

5.  SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Supervised by the Major Crime Forensic Scientists, but is expected to use own initiative.

6. CONTACTS OUTSIDE OWN SECTION

Police Officers, Police Staff, CPS Officers, Other Police Forces and external agencies, Suppliers and manufacturers of relevant equipment.

7.  SPECIAL CONDITIONS

Requirement to work a shift pattern which will cover 7 days a week between core hours 0730-1830, appropriate allowances will be payable in accordance with the police staff handbook.

Hours of work may vary due to operational demand, taking into consideration individual circumstances and the police staff handbook.

Required to attend training courses as and when required within the development of the post holder and the Unit.

Expected to comply with Health and Safety at Work Act, Fire Prevention Regulations and COSHH Regulations at all times.

Able to tolerate potentially unpleasant situations or sights.

The Authority reserves the right to vary the duties and responsibilities of staff under conditions prescribed in National Agreement. Thus, it must be appreciated that the above duties may be altered as the future changing needs of the service may require. In addition, members of staff are liable to serve at any of the Authority’s places of employment as may be required.

Post No:

Date: