Evidence Technician

Job Summary

Responsible for collecting processing identifying maintaining storing and security of evidence and property obtained by the Weslaco Police Department. This role is responsible for the collections of evidence at the crime scene as well as all the evidence submitted to the Identification Division. Other functions shall or may require generating reports testifying in court and logging of property into computer database.

Essential Job Functions

• Maintain regular and prompt attendance; physically present to work.
• Performs after hours work as required (nights and weekends)
• Assist with emergency response as needed by city hall and local EOC.
• Recover and process submitted property and evidence submitted by police officers.
• Catalog and store property and evidence submitted.
• Download/upload videos and photos from cameras and other digital source for evidentiary purposes.
• Process crime scenes for evidence.
• Sorts and files impound records and other documents related to the receipt storage and disposal of property and evidence.
• Conduct inventory and stock required supplies as needed.
• Author supplemental reports for work performed on evidence/cases.
• Research disposition of criminal and civil cases.
• Dispose of property and evidence in compliance with state statutes and court orders.
• Maintain strict chain-of-custody procedures in compliance with CALEA standards Texas Best Practices and IACP guidelines.
• Ensure evidence room access control accountability and security systems are functioning properly.
• Prepare for and participate in audits inspections and accreditation reviews.

• Performs other similar or related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

• Must have High School diploma or equivalent (GED)
• One (1) to three (3) years of related work experience to perform such job.
• Applicant must pass pre-employment criminal background check and drug screen at Citys expense.
• Must have taken Basic Evidence Technician course.
• Completion of TCOLE-approved Property & Evidence Management training (or equivalent) within one year of hire.
• Must have current valid Class C Texas Drivers License and be insurable.
• Must successfully complete Emergency Management and Incident Command Training.
• Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred.

Knowledge Abilities and Skill

• Preferred experience as Evidence Technician or Crime Scene Investigator
• Ability to learn federal state and local criminal and civil laws codes and regulations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers supervisors other City employees and the public.
• Must have Computer literacy
• Must have critical thinking skills and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of CALEA and IACP standards for evidence handling and documentation.
• Ability to prepare for courtroom testimony and articulate evidence handling procedures clearly.
• Skill in using evidence management software and chain-of-custody tracking systems.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

• Work requires some agility and physical strength such as moving in and about construction sites or over rough terrain.
• Must be able to remain stationary or moving about most of the work period.
• Occasional lifting moving or positioning objects up to 50lbs.
• Exposure to biohazards chemicals or sensitive materials may occur during evidence handling; must follow OSHA and departmental safety protocols.
• Ability to learn and use evidence processing hardware such as fuming chambers and electronic lift.

Confidentiality

Has regular access at the departmental level to a wide variety of confidential information including personnel records client records criminal investigations court records financial records. Must maintain confidentiality and comply with Texas Government Code Open Records Act and departmental policies regarding sensitive information.

Any applicant selected for employment with the City of Weslaco must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing references background checks and credential verification.

Required Experience:

IC