Latent Print Examiner



Latent Print Examiner

Salary

$51,200.36 - $79,428.56 Annually

Location

Lakeland, FL

Job Type

Full Time Regular

Job Number

3146-03

Department

Criminal Investigations I 1408100000

Opening Date

03/31/2022

Closing Date

11/3/2022 12:00 AM Eastern

FLSA

Exempt

Bargaining Unit

NA

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS

This is highly responsible technical work examining, evaluating, and comparing finger and/or palm prints.  This position is also responsible for the documentation, collection, preservation, processing and/or handling of latent print and/or evidence in a laboratory setting or at/from crime scenes.
 


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

  • Examines, evaluates and makes comparisons of latent finger and palm prints according to prescribed procedures.
  • Applies the ACE-V methodology accurately and reliably in latent print cases.
  • Prepares accurate detailed reports.
  • Searches latent prints from evidence and crime scenes in the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
  • Testifies in trials and depositions as an expert witness to latent print identification.
  • Prepares court exhibits to include fingerprint charts for demonstration.
  • Utilizes special processes, methods and equipment for the detection and collection of latent print evidence.
  • Takes photographs of latent prints developed off of evidence.
  • Maintains the cleanliness and operational readiness of all assigned equipment.
  • Operates a vehicle under normal and adverse conditions.
  • Represents the Police Department in a professional manner and gives guidance to citizens when necessary.
  • Prepares FDLE laboratory submittals.
  • Fingerprints suspects and victims for comparison purposes.
  • Obtains inked fingerprints from deceased persons for comparison purposes.
  • Provides training to Police Departmental Personnel as well as other groups in the area of fingerprints.
  • Responds to crime scenes when necessary to document, preserve and collect latent prints.
  • Occasionally after hour call-out may be required.
  • May be required to work overtime or alternate hours as necessary for the efficient operation of the department.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Stays abreast of new trends and technological advances in the field of latent prints by reading peer reviewed articles/journals as well as attending specialized training.
  • Performs related work as required.
  • Position may be designated as Mission Critical by Department Director.

QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE) AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must possess an Associates (A.S. or A.A.) degree or sixty (60) hours of college credit.
  • Two (2) years of full time latent print experience that must include the comparison and identification of latent prints.
  • Two (2) years of experience in the documentation, collection and analysis of evidence.
  • Minimum of 80 hours of formal training in latent print comparison.
  • IAI (International Association for Identification) Certification in latent prints preferred.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must possess a valid State of Florida driver's license.
  • Must maintain a valid telephone number.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Skill in reading and interpreting complex, technical information.
  • Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of possible solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Ability to perform basic arithmetic and mathematical calculations.
  • Ability to analyze information and to evaluate results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
  • Ability to learn and apply investigative techniques as they relate to the collection, preservation and protection of physical evidence.
  • Ability to communicate with the general public and other members/appointees of the agency for the purpose of providing guidance, giving technical direction and/or explaining or interpreting policy.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, other City employees and the general public.
  • Ability to manage several tasks simultaneously.
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions, as well as give instructions to others as required.
  • Willingness to abide by and support City/Lakeland Police Department missions, visions, goals and objectives.
  • Ability to apply the Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation and Verification (ACE-V) methodology to latent print examinations.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to work efficiently under high stress conditions.
  • Considerable knowledge of the history of fingerprints and the ethical standards involved with latent print comparison.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work involves some walking or standing for prolonged periods of time, exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a recurrent basis and up to 50 pounds occasionally and routine keyboard operations.
  • The job risks exposure to laboratory chemicals, firearms, narcotics, bio-hazardous material, such as blood, tissue and bodily excretions, contagious diseases, such as HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis, volatile environments and graphic crime scenes.
  • The job requires normal visual acuity, and field of vision, hearing, speaking, color perception, sense of smell, depth perception and texture perceptions.

Required Documents: 
1. Copy of DD214 – Military Discharge (if applicable).
2. Proof of at least 80 hours of course work in latent print examinations
 
 Applicants for the position of Latent Print Examiner are required to submit a copy of ALL required documents with the employment application. Applicants will not be eligible for employment until ALL required documents have been submitted to CIVIL SERVICE or uploaded with the application.  Documents will not be accepted after the closing of the job posting.
 
Elements of the selection process:
Our system allows you to work on your application and save the application without submitting it.   This is done to allow you to save your work and come back to finish the application without having to start over.   Your application is not considered “complete” until it is thoroughly filled out, without missing information, and ALL required documents are received by Civil Service.  If you submit your application and do not “complete” it before 4 p.m. on the posted close date (listed on the job opportunities page), your application will be rejected from the system and you will have to start the application process over.  The application WILL NOT be accepted or reviewed until it is “complete”.
 
After submission of the completed application (including ALL required documents) the application will be accepted.  Once your application has been reviewed and accepted based on minimum qualifications for the position, applications will be reviewed for desirable qualifications.   Applicants with the most desirable application will be notified to take a Latent Print Examiner Skills Test.   This test measures the basic skills associated with the latent Print Examiner position.
 
If selected to move to the next phase, the applicant will attend an interview conducted by a panel.   The panel will consist of a minimum of three police department members.
 
If selected to move forward, you will be invited to complete a biographical interview, conducted by a member of the G.S.S. staff.  The biographical interview will consist of a full comprehensive review of the application submitted to confirm accuracy of the information provided.  Applicants that are selected to continue in the process will be given information and instructions for the submission of a Personal History Questionnaire, which will be required to move forward in the process.
 
Those applicants that are selected for employment will be given a conditional offer of employment.   The job offer is contingent upon the successful completion and approval of a polygraph examination, drug screen testing and completed background investigation.
 
A thorough background investigation will be completed on all candidates prior to employment.
 
The applicant will receive written notice either by mail or electronic mail at each phase of the selection process advising them that they were selected to move forward in the process or that they were not selected.  It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the e-mail address provided on the application is correct and to provide any updated information to Civil Service during the application process.
 
Once a decision has been reached to offer the applicant employment OR that the applicant will not be offered employment, applicants will be notified within 30 days.  The intent of the Lakeland Police Department’s General Services Section is that the selection process, from the date of the exam until the applicant is advised of a decision regarding employment, will not extend beyond 180 days.
 
When the applicant is selected for employment and all elements of the selection process have been passed, the applicant will begin the in-house training and familiarization of the positional duties.  The new employee will be on probationary status until their one year probationary period is successfully completed.  
 
Reapplication:
Reapplication, retesting, and re-evaluation of applicants not hired is permitted after six months as long as nothing in the application history indicates an unfitness for employment.   Conditions that qualify as unfitness for employment include revelations of unacceptable drug use, criminal records, or other factors discovered during the selection process.
 
Background Investigation:
As part of the background investigation, a biographical interview will be completed.  During biographical interview a member of the G.S.S. staff will conduct a full comprehensive review of the application submitted to confirm accuracy of the information provided.  If selected to move forward, Information and instructions will be provided for the submission of a Personal History Questionnaire, which will be required to move forward in the process.  
 
The G.S.S staff will also take your fingerprints to assist in the background phase of the hiring process.
 
A background investigation, of each candidate for all positions, is conducted prior to appointment to probationary status. The background investigation may include, but is not limited to:
a. verification of qualifying credentials
b. a review of any criminal record
c. a review of applicants driving record
d. fingerprint check
e. warrants check
f. records check
g. verification of at least three personal references
h. a review of prior employment/military history
i. a review of applicant’s employment and academy files
j. review of social site/internet information


Be advised that sensitive or confidential aspects of the applicant's personal lives may
be explored.
 
The City of Lakeland is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and a Drug Free work place.
 

 
City of Lakeland
Summary Sheet 


Annual Leave
Annual leave is accumulated bi-weekly and based upon years of service as follows:



Sick Leave
Sick rate is accrued biweekly based upon years of service and standard hour classification. Eligible for use as soon as earned. Regular part-time employees who work at least 20 hours per week accrue sick leave at the rate of 4 hours per month.
 
*NOTE: REGULAR employees with a working day other than 8 hours, please contact your supervisor regarding these policies.

Sick Leave Pool
Allows employees to receive sick leave benefits in cases involving catastrophic or long-term illnesses or injuries after all personal leave time has been depleted. Regular full-time employees contribute 8 hours and Regular part-time employees contribute 4 hours on an annual basis. Employees must have completed one full year of service on or before December 31st of the calendar year enrollment, and have accumulated at least 40 hours of sick time (20 hours for Regular part-time employees). Participation in this program is voluntary.

Family & Medical Leave
Federal legislation guarantees up to 12 weeks per year off work under certain circumstances outlined in the policy manual. The employees must have been employed by the City for at least 12 months and have at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12-month period before the requested leave. The City will continue its group life and health insurance for an employee on leave at the same level and under the same conditions that existed while the employee was working.

For more information, contact Lynnette Larmouth at 834-8793.

Pension Plan
Provision for retirement income requiring mandatory participation for full-time regular employees.
 
Defined Benefit Plan: 
Plan C Employee 5.81%
Employer 19.33% 

 OR 

Defined Contribution Plan:
Executive and new hires over age 52 Employee 8.5% or 10.73% per election upon hire Employer 15.39%
 
Deferred Compensation 457 Plan:
A voluntary plan that is invested in mutual funds. The Employees' Pension Board performs the due diligence on the mutual funds. Employees may reallocate their account at any time.

Maximum contribution for 2022 is $20,500; employees age 50 or older can also add a "catch-up" amount of $6,500. Additionally, a match of up to 5% of salary is offered by the City in Plan C.
 
Holidays

Eleven (11) holidays, includes one personal floating holiday to be used at any time after three months of employment and prior to the end of the calendar year.
 
Funeral Leave

Up to three days off with pay due to death of an immediate family member (as defined in the policy manual). Up to four hours off with pay may be obtained through supervisor approval to attend local funeral services of persons other than immediate family.
 
Jury/Witness Duty

Employees required to serve on jury duty will be relieved of responsibility for their regular work shift or portion thereof and receive full pay while serving. All fees received for such service may be retained by the employee. Employees subpoenaed to any civil or criminal court proceeding, which employee is not personally or monetarily interested, shall be paid as if engaged in regular work activities.

Military Leave
Allows for up to 240 hours in any one calendar year for annual military training without loss of pay or benefits for any employee in some type of reserve status for the United States Armed Forces. (see policy manual for additional information).

Maternity Leave
Refer to Family & Medical Leave for those employees who qualify. Others may take up to three months leave of absence available upon approval of the Department Head. Employees may opt to utilize any combination of paid (sick or annual leave) or unpaid leave.

Leave of Absence Without Pay
Written requests are subject to approval by Department Head and City Manager or designee for less than 90 days. Requests for more than 90 days also require Civil Service Board approval for employees in a Civil Service classification.
 
Longevity Pay




Tuition Reimbursement
Eligible after one year of employment. The program provides employees up to $2,000 per fiscal year (October 1 through September 30) for reimbursement of tuition of approved college, university, vocational, or correspondence classes upon completion with a grade of "C" or better in credit courses only. Full reimbursement is given for courses and fees, upon approval. The program does not include reimbursement for the cost of books, supplies or other related expenses.

For more information, contact Sue Cook at 834-6844.
  
Suggestion Awards
A program designed to provide a consistent and organized method for employees to submit and be rewarded for constructive ideas for improvement. The maximum award is $1000.

For additional information, contact Kathy McNelis at 834-6348.
 
Direct Deposit of Paycheck (refer to handout in new employee folder)
An account must be established with the institution of your choice prior to signing up for direct deposit.
 
Uniforms/Equipment

Uniforms are issued at no cost to employees for those job classifications which require them. Equipment is given to employees at either no cost or discounted cost depending upon job classification.

Break Periods
Employees may be permitted two 15-minute breaks during the work day. The time shall be at the discretion of the supervisor.
 
For Information on Health Insurance, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance please contact Benefits at 834-6797. 

For Information on Retirement Benefits, contact the Retirement Services Department at 834-8784 or 834-8794.
 
For Information on Firefighter and Police Officer Retirement Benefits, contact Foster & Foster at 239-333-4872.

01
Are you a citizen of the United States?
  • Yes
  • No
02
Have you ever received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United State?
  • Yes
  • No
03
Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to, or is found guilty of a felony, or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement, shall not be eligible for employment or appointment as an officer, not-withstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication. Have you been convicted of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement?
  • Yes
  • No
04
Do you have a High School diploma from an accredited school or its equivalent (GED)?
  • Yes
  • No
05
Have you ever, by word of mouth or in writing, advocated, advised, or taught the doctrine that the government of the United States of America, or of any political subdivision thereof, should be overthrown by force, violence, or any unlawful means?
  • Yes
  • No
06
Are you willing to take a polygraph examination to verify all information supplied in this application?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Have you illegally used, experimented or otherwise possessed marijuana, or any of its derivatives, within the past two (2) years?
  • Yes
  • No
08
If you have illegally used, experimented, or otherwise possessed marijuana, or any of its derivatives within the past two (2) years, please provide a detailed explanation of the incident(s) and provide the month/year of last use. Otherwise, enter N/A.
09
Other than marijuana, within the past five (5) years, have you illegally used, experimented or otherwise possessed any controlled substance listed under Florida Statute 893, including synthetic drugs and the use of prescription medications that were not prescribed to you.
  • Yes
  • No
10
If you have, within the past 5 years, illegally used, experimented or otherwise possessed any controlled substance listed under Florida Statute 893, including synthetic drugs and the use of prescription medications that were not prescribed to you, please provide a detailed explanation of the incident(s) and include the name of the illegal drug used and the month/year of last use. Otherwise, enter N/A.
11
Have you ever illegally cultivated, manufacture, sold or delivered a controlled substance?
  • Yes
  • No
12
If you have illegally cultivated, manufactured, sold or delivered a controlled substance, please explain and enter the date of the occurrence(s). Otherwise enter N/A.
13
If you have ever been convicted of a criminal offense list each offense and explain. Otherwise enter N/A.
14
If you have you ever been arrested, charged or received a notice to appear or summons for any criminal violation, please provide an explanation. Otherwise, enter No.
15
List all traffic tickets other than parking, explain why received, when received, and final disposition. Enter N/A if you have never received a traffic ticket other than parking.
16
If your driver's license has ever been suspended or revoked, please explain in detail. Otherwise, enter N/A.
17
Have you had a DUI conviction within sixty (60) months of this application?
  • Yes
  • No
18
List what illegal drug(s), if any, you have used. List the number of times you used the illegal drug(s) and the time frame in which the use(s) occurred. This includes any prescription medication you have taken that was not prescribed to you. The format for answering this question is: TYPE of illegal drug(s), NUMBER OF TIMES the drug(s) was used, PERIOD OF TIME in which the drug(s) was used. LIST EACH ILLEGAL DRUG(S) USED IN THE ABOVE FORMAT SEPARATELY. If you have never used any illegal drug(s), please state I have never used any illegal drug (s).
19
List any honors, awards or scholarships received from an educator or employer. Enter N/A if none have been received.
20
Do you understand if you HAVE SERVED in the Armed Forces, you must supply a copy of your DD-214 Form-4 to the City of Lakeland Department of Civil Serivce?
  • Yes
  • No
21
If you have served in the Armed Forces, list the branch(es) of service and the corresponding highest rank achieved. Otherwise, enter N/A.
22
If you have ever served in the military, list the type and date of each discharge. Otherwise enter N/A.
23
If any type of disciplinary action was taken against you in the service, please provide the date(s), place(s), nature of the offense(s) and action(s) taken. Otherwise, enter N/A.
24
If you are a naturalized citizen, please provide the following details: Date, Place, Court and Naturalization Number. Otherwise, enter N/A.
25
If you have any tattoos describe the design and location. Otherwise enter N/A.
26
With or without reasonable accommodation(s), can you perform the essential functions of the job as described in the job description? Please answer Yes or No. If you require any reasonable accommodation(s) to perform the essential functions of the job as described in the job description, please provide a narrative statement describing reasonable accommodation(s) needed below.
27
Can you operate a motor vehicle?
  • Yes
  • No
28
Have you ever been terminated from employment? If yes, list the name of the employer. Otherwise, enter "No, I have never been terminated from employment."
29
Have you ever been disciplined in anyway, dismissed from, or asked to resign by any employer? If yes, please include all verbal and written counseling, warnings, reprimands, suspension or involuntary resignations. Otherwise, enter N/A.
30
List names of relatives or friends employed by the Lakeland Police Department. Format is: Name, Relationship. Otherwise, enter none.
31
If you have ever applied to another law enforcement agency, list the name of the agency and the date(s) and status of each application. Otherwise, enter N/A.
32
Do you possess an Associates (A.S. or A.A.) degree or sixty (60) hours of college credit?
  • Yes
  • No
33
Do you have two (2) years of full time latent print experience which includes comparison and identification of latent prints?
  • Yes
  • No
34
Please provide a narrative supporting your answer to the above question. Be sure to include specific job title(s), job duties, organization(s) and the dates where the work was performed. Note: The employers and dates of employment you list here must also be included in the "Work Experience" section of this job application.
35
Do you have two (2) years of experience in the documentation, collection and analysis of evidence?
  • Yes
  • No
36
Please provide a narrative supporting your answer to the above question. Be sure to include specific job title(s), job duties, organization(s) and the dates where the work was performed. Note: The employers and dates of employment you list here must also be included in the "Work Experience" section of this job application.
37
Do you have a minimum of 80 hours of formal training in latent print comparison?
  • Yes
  • No
38
Please provide a narrative supporting your answer to the above question. Be sure to include specific job title(s), job duties, organization(s) and the dates where the work was performed. Note: The employers and dates of employment you list here must also be included in the "Work Experience" section of this job application.
39
Do you possess IAI (International Association for Identification) Certification in latent prints?
  • Yes
  • No
40
By clicking "Yes" below, I understand that all relevant work experience MUST be entered in the "Work Experience" section on my application. In addition, all current City of Lakeland employees must list all previous City of Lakeland work experience in the "Work Experience" section of the application. Failure to complete the "Work Experience" section will disqualify you from the application process.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Agency
City of Lakeland, Civil Service
Address
500 N Lake Parker Avenue

Lakeland, Florida, 33801
Phone
(863)834-8790