SOUTH WEST FORENSIC SERVICES

Role Profile

Role Title / Level 2 Crime Scene Investigator
Grade and Salary / Indicative Grade 8 (subject to JE)
Department / South West Forensic Services - CSI
Other Considerations / To maintain professional competency and attend and successfully complete nationally accredited courses including Stage 2 of the College of Policing CSI Learning Programme. Failure to pass may result in the termination of contract.
Normal working hours will span the range of 08:00 to 22:00, 7 days per week.Participation in a regional on-call rota is required in addition to a flexible approach to working location as operational duties may need to be undertaken across the South West region in line with business requirements. This may include an occassional need for overnight accommodation, for which an allowance would be paid.
All successful applicants will be required to submit themselves for drug testing in line with employing Force's Drug Policies. Additionally role holders are required to provide personal fingerprints and DNA samples which will be retained on elimination databases for the duration of employment.
Please note that, due to the nature of security checks undertaken, applicants must have 3 years' continuous residency in the UK up to the date of the application and Home Office approval for indefinite leave to remain within the UK.
Travel is required and the relevant allowances are payable in accordance with Force policy.
This role requires regular Occupational Health assessments
In addition there are some functions that are intrinsic to the role. An employer’s duty of care and current legislation allows the Force to establish if a potential applicant could carry them out, either with or without reasonable adjustments. These functions are:
Manual handling including the movement of equipment and cadavers; working at heights; working in confined spaces; lone working; driving long distances; working with chemical/biological hazards; working with firearms/ammunitions; working with equipment/machinery with potential to cause harm;working with disturbing evidence/observation of disturbing circumstances; working with vulnerable people; working in an environment with potential for conflict, violence, etc.; prolonged wearing of Personal Protective Equipment.
To assist in ensuring applicants would be able to undertake these functions of the role, it will be necessary for the enhanced medical questionnaire provided with the application material to be completed. A medical assessment of the information provided in that questionnaire will be undertaken and may subsequently require a consultation with the Occupational Health Support Unit.
Vetted to SC level.
Designated Powers under schedule 4 of the Police Reform Act 2002 in relation to entry, search and seizure of exhibits.
The postholder may be required undertake other duties which are not necessarily specified on the role profile, but which are commensurate with the role.

Overview of role and key objectives

  • To provide an effective and efficient Crime Scene Investigation capability to the SW Regional Forces.
  • To attend all categories of crime scene and associated locations to conduct scientific examinations with the objective of identifying, recording and recovering physical and digital forensic evidence and intelligence information.
  • To conduct additional post scene activity to enable effective processing of evidence and intelligence information.

Qualifications, skills, knowledge and experience required of post holder

Essential

  • Trained to accredited national standards as a Crime Scene Investigator (Stage 1) and experience of employment within a CSI role. Must demonstrate knowledge and experience of all CSI activities (e.g. fingerprints, footwear, DNA, trace evidence and photography)in volume, serious and major crime investigation.
  • Experience of gathering and analysing information.
  • Experience of making and maintaining confidential records (written and computer).
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy, with an understanding of the importance of integrity and continuity within Criminal Justice.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills, face to face and over the telephone. Experience of dealing effectively with a diverse range of people and ability to present facts and opinions accurately, clearly and concisely in written and oral formats.
  • Self-motivated with an ability to work with minimal supervision as well as part of a team under challenging conditions.
  • Computer literate.
  • Full UK/European driving licence.

Desirable

  • Trained to accredited national standards as a Crime Scene Investigator (Stage 2).
  • A scientific qualification – Degree level or directly related equivalent experience.
  • Experience of photography and digital imaging.
  • Experience of working within an ISO accredited environment.

Main responsibilities

  1. To gather information from relevant sources to ascertain the circumstances of incidents and the requirement to attend locations; including liaison with officers and people at scenes to secure effective co-operation and co-ordination of scene investigations.
  1. To conduct risk assessments of scenes and to ensure that all safety precautions are taken and documented when in situations which may present a health hazard, e.g. exposure to cadavers, body fluids, physical and chemical hazards.
  1. To attend volume, serious and major crime scenes and associated locations as required and to conduct scientific investigations with the objective of identifying, recording and recovering potentially valuable physical, trace and digital forensic evidence and intelligence information (including post mortem examinations).
  1. To undertake methodical investigations in accordance with National Occupational Standards and departmental Quality Standards (including ISO 17020/17025), using specialist light sources, photographic and other equipment as required.
  1. To work closely with Pathologists and other Experts and Specialists, working with minimal supervision and under the direction of a Crime Scene Manager.
  1. To take additional responsibility and/or functionality in specialist areas such as; blood screening, fire investigation, CBRN, UV and 360° photography, covert operations, DVI, Archaeology, rope access, Luminol, sea survival, illicit labs, mentoring/tutoring, occasional trainer, Crime Scene Manager
  1. To obtain appropriate sample materials from persons for further examination, elimination and recording purposes in accordance with documented procedures when authorised and required.
  1. To ensure correct packaging, preservation, continuity and integrity of exhibits and to retain and store recovered physical and trace evidence in a way that prevents contamination and loss of evidence. Where necessary, to prioritise, review and submit exhibits for subsequent analysis or storage as required to other police departments or identified outside agencies, taking into account evidential significance and value for money.
  1. To disseminate information / intelligence effectively, appropriately and promptly.
  1. To accurately maintain comprehensive computer and written records, to record activity, track exhibits, to meet departmental and statutory requirements relating to the storage and retention of physical evidence and information.
  1. To prepare evidential material and attend court to present expert evidence and opinion as required, ensuring standard formats of statements, photographic albums and indices are produced for presentation as scientific findings in criminal investigations and judicial proceedings.
  1. To maintain stores, equipment and storage facilities and to ensure that crime scene equipment is available and fit for purpose in order to meet operational requirements. To undertake general administrative tasks as required.
  1. To attend training courses and other events linked to ongoing competency to maintain skill and expertise in scene investigation and evidence recovery. To keep abreast of changes and developments within Crime Scene Investigation.
  1. To provide specialist advice and knowledge to colleagues, partners and other individuals and agencies to support the achievement of Regionalobjectives and enable compliance withRegional policy.
  1. To ensure contact with members of the public positively contributes to providing customer satisfaction and confidence in the police service. To provide relevant crime prevention advice in order to contribute to the reduction of crime.

ICF Activities and Behaviours

Core Responsibilities / Activities
The role holder should effectively deliver these key requirements:
Administrative Support / 1168 – Review, retain and dispose of records and information
Review, retain and dispose of records in accordance with Force policy and relevant legislation.
1110 – Maintain a record management system
Record, store and supply information in accordance with Force policy and legislative requirements.
1005 – Input, retrieve and present data using a computer
Enter information correctly using an appropriate computer system, in accordance with legislative requirements and Force policy. Retrieve and present information in a suitable format and supply to relevant personnel.
1197 – Produce and present documents using a computer
Present information accurately and in an appropriate format using a computer. Comply with Force procedures.
Community Safety / 6 - Provide specialist crime reduction advice
Represent the police Force by providing relevant independent crime prevention advice, in accordance with best practice and in order to contribute to the reduction of crime and disorder.
600 - Conduct specialist site investigation
Contribute to the investigation of an incident by conducting relevant examinations and tests of the incident site(s) in accordance with Health and Safety, legal and other organisational requirements.
Custody and Prosecution / 44 - Present evidence in court and at other hearings
Attend court and give evidence in accordance with legislation.
Information Management and Technology / 1070 - Maintain computer security
Ensure the integrity of computer systems through the implementation of approved contingency measures and the monitoring of use.
Investigation / 53 - Search premises, vehicles and land
Conduct search procedures using the best practice techniques in accordance with the relevant legislation and policy, whilst having regard for the health, safety and Human Rights.
Managing the Organisation / 1021 - Contribute to policy formulation
Draft policies that are fair, support Force strategy, aims and objectives and comply with relevant legislation. Ensure effective consultation with stakeholders. Review and amend policies taking into account organisation changes.
1072 - Provide specialist advice and knowledge
Provide specialist advice and knowledge to colleagues, partners and other individuals and agencies to support the achievement of Force objectives and enable compliance with Force policy.
1042 - Gather information to support action
Gather information from a range of sources in order to support action. Ensure the information is obtained ethically and in accordance with relevant legislation and policy.
Managing and Developing People / 901 - Coach and mentor staff
Provide advice, guidance, and feedback, to build confidence and improve effectiveness within existing roles and to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for personal development.
234 - Prepare and deliver presentations
Prepare and deliver information to diverse audiences ensuring that you use an appropriate communication style, operate equipment correctly and represent the values of the Service.
Operational Support / 1130 - Conduct laboratory based examinations
Conduct laboratory based examinations of items/exhibits to support investigations. Ensure integrity and continuity of items by correct handling, storage and documentation.
1002 - Ensure appropriate handling and storage of property
Handle lost or seized property appropriately, complying with legislation and Force policy. Preserve the integrity of property. Dispose of unclaimed, forfeited, or seized property in line with Force policy.
604 - Provide specialist opinion and interpretations
Evaluate and interpret the results of investigations and give advice that is unbiased, accurate and based on established Principals.
603 - Examine recovered evidence
Carry out examination of recovered evidence in accordance with health and safety, legal and other organisational requirements.
1133 - Perform specialist technical or manual tasks
Perform specialist technical or manual tasks according to professional, occupational or organisational standards
Personal Responsibility / 141 – Promote equality, diversity and Human Rights in working practices
Promote equality, diversity and Human Rights in working practices by developing and maintaining positive working relationships, ensuring that colleagues are treated fairly and contributing to developing equality of opportunity in working practices.
217 – Maintain standards of professional practice
Ensure your behaviour complies with Force values and organise your own work effectively to meet the demands of your role. Identify, implement and monitor development activities to enhance your own performance.
224 - Work as part of a team
Work co-operatively with team members and colleagues, contributing positively and constructively to the achievement of team and Force objectives.
242 - Make best use of technology
Make best use of technology in support of your role, ensuring correct operation and compliance with Force and legal requirements.
206 – Comply with Health and Safety legislation
Ensure that you show a duty of care and take appropriate action to comply with Health and Safety requirements at all times.
216 - Complete administration procedures
Ensure that all matters relating to the process of information are carried out in a prompt, efficient manner and in accordance with legislation, policy and procedure.

BEHAVIOURS

LEADERSHIP

Openness to change

Understands the need for change and is willing to adapt to it. Is flexible and prepared to try out new ideas.

WORKING WITH OTHERS

Respect for race and diversity

Understands other people’s views and takes them into account. Is tactful and diplomatic when dealing with people, treating them with dignity and respect at all times. Understands and is sensitive to social, cultural and racial differences

Teamworking

Works effectively as a team member and helps build relationships within it. Actively helps and supports others to achieve team goals.

Community and customer focus

Provides a high level of service to customers. Maintains contact with customers, works out what they need and responds to them.

Effective communication

Speaks clearly and concisely, and does not use jargon. Uses plain English and correct grammar. Listens carefully to understand.

ACHIEVING RESULTS

Problem solving

Gathers enough relevant information to understand specific issues and events. Uses information to identify problems and draw logical conclusions. Makes good decisions.

Planning and organising

Plans and carries out activities in an orderly and well-structured way. Prioritises tasks, uses time in the best possible way, and works within appropriate policy and procedures.

Personal responsibility

Takes personal responsibility for own actions and for sorting out issues or problems that arise. Is focused on achieving results to required standards and developing skills and knowledge.

V 2.0note: 04/04/2016