Conducts routine high-volume laboratory examinations for the identification of material evidence; provides expert testimony in court cases.
This is the intermediate class for criminalists. Criminalists in this class perform routine high-volume laboratory tasks.
Identifies unknown substances by chemical, physical and instrumental analyses. Conducts examinations and comparisons of handwriting, paper, ink and altered or fraudulent documents. Compares and identifies latent prints. Examines and compares spectrogram for voice identification. Processes all photographic materials used at the crime scene. Performs routine high-volume polygraph examinations and interrogations. Interprets results of analyses, tests and examinations; prepares cases for court presentation.
Knowledge of investigative and laboratory techniques, including forensic chemistry; firearm, tool mark, fingerprint, plaster cast and voice-print identifications; crime scene procedures; photography; and polygraph examination and interrogation procedures. Knowledge of law enforcement practices and procedures. Knowledge of the South Carolina criminal codes. Ability to testify effectively in court. Ability to interpret findings. Ability to prepare scientific reports. Ability to communicate effectively.
Some positions require licensing as a polygraph examiner.
A high school diploma and experience as a criminalist.