Crime Scene Investigator

Job Description:

Crime Scene Investigator

Description

Overview

A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is responsible for the documentation, collection, preservation, analysis, and processing of evidence that is identified and recovered at crime scenes. Duties include scene photography, tire/shoe impression photography and casting, scene search, identification and collection of physical and biological evidence, latent fingerprint processing, follow-up investigation at hospitals, attending autopsies, obtaining postmortem fingerprints and palm prints of deceased individuals, scene sketches and report writing. Laboratory duties include chemical and powder processing of evidence for latent fingerprint development, latent fingerprint photography, trace evidence collection, evidence preservation, utilizing alternate light sources, packaging and submission to the police property room or Texas DPS Crime Laboratory for DNA analysis and CODIS entry while maintaining chain of custody. Additional duties include state and federal courtroom testimony, presentation of recovered evidence, verification of arrested individuals for background investigation purposes. Occasionally assist other law enforcement agencies with crime scene processing. All work must conform to established quality control measures and ISO accreditation requirements.

Responsibilities

• Document crime scenes using digital cameras, video recorders, and related equipment to create a permanent record of the crime scene and evidence observed/collected

• Document injuries or other evidence on body of victims, suspects, and other subjects

• Operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs, aka drones) to capture aerial photos or video footage of crime scenes, or act as visual observer for drone pilot as needed

• Photograph evidence taken to laboratory for additional processing

• Process evidence at scenes for latent prints using powders, chemicals, and alternate light sources; submit to Latent Print Unit for examination/identification

• Detect and collect trace evidence such as blood stains, body fluids, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, and tool/tire marks using visual or chemical means (e.g., alternate light sources/lasers, luminol or BlueStar, electrostatic dust lifters, protein stains, etc.)

• Collect items of evidence for processing at lab or for investigative purposes (clothing, bedding, footwear/tire track impressions, etc.)

• Properly package, secure, and store items of evidence

• Utilize proper techniques and the correct sequence for multiple processing types

• Morgue detail: photograph body, view autopsy, obtain postmortem finger/palm prints, collect trace evidence (nail clipping/scrapings, hair, tissue, blood) and physical evidence collection (clothing, footwear, bullets, ligatures, etc.)

• Verify identity through prints of subjects with multiple arrest records

• Identify deceased subjects by collecting morgue prints and comparing them to arrest records

• Operate 30 laser scanning system to capture data for extremely detailed and precise scene reconstruction of major crime scenes such as homicides and officer-involved shootings

• Use GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) instrumentation as needed to obtain precise measurements for crime scene dimensions, location of evidence within crime scene, etc

• Render data through specialized CAD software application (Trimble Reveal) to create three-dimensional "digital twin" of crime scene for investigative and courtroom purposes

• Take manual measurements and create hand-drawn sketches where necessary

• Prepare thorough technical reports detailing activities at crime scenes and continued work in the laboratory using the laboratory information management system (LIMS); conduct administrative and technical reviews Upload digital evidence into digital image management system (DIMS)

• Transfer 30 scan data to computer for software rendering

• Submit evidence to Firearms or Latent Print Unit for proper analysis. Submit other items (DNA, trace evidence, etc.) to Texas DPS Lab

• Coordinate transfer of evidence to and from Property Room, ensuring chain of custody is maintained

• Meet with attorneys in pre-trial discussions to prepare for testimony

• Prepare exhibits or visual aids (charts, photographs, PowerPoint slides, etc.) as needed Present findings and observations in courts of law

• Participate in relevant training courses (virtual/web-based or on-site)

• Stay abreast of advancements in technology, technique, and other topics relevant to job duties Assist Corpus Christi Police Academy with instruction of cadets in crime scene investigations

• Assist with training and observation of crime scene investigator trainees and interns

• Participate in various community outreach activities (CCPD Citizens Academy, school functions, etc.)

• Clean and restock crime scene vehicles with supplies, tools, and packaging materials; monitor vehicle condition and report maintenance issues

• Ensure batteries for all electronic equipment (3D scanners, cameras/flashes, scene lights, tablets, etc.) are fully charged and devices are ready for use

• Conduct basic maintenance/cleaning of crime scene equipment; inform management when repair is needed Other duties as assigned

• May be asked to perform other duties as assigned

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work

• Exempt - Full-Time

40-hour work week with rotating shifts. Selected candidate will be required to work weekends and holidays, as this is a 24/7 position. Call outs when necessary.

• In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. This job description is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree (BA/ BS)

• Six (6) months to one (1) year of experience

Licenses and Certifications

Required

• A valid driver's license is required; successful out-of-state candidates must be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license within 90 days of hire

Required within six (6) months of hire

• TCIC/ NCIC certification

• First aid/ CPR certification

Employment Testing

Employment is contingent on passing any post-offer pre-employment screening as listed below:

• Police Criminal Background Check: Yes

• Motor Vehicle Record Check: Yes

• Drug Screening: Yes

• Physical Exam: Yes

Basis of Rating

A recruitment consultant will evaluate all applications against the posted qualifications. The city may also conduct additional skill assessment tests, in addition to the panel interview.

Supplemental Information

• Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position with the City of Corpus Christi.

The City of Corpus is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). If you require an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please request assistance from the Human Resources Department.

Closing Date/Time: March 6, 2026

Salary:

22.72-24.99 USD