Forensic Specialist

PLEASE NOTE: Applications will only be accepted Wednesday, December 31, 2025, through Thursday, January 15, 2026. The City of Pasadena is currently seeking a Forensic Specialist with a high degree of attention to detail and strong analytical skills to perform field and laboratory analysis for processing and comparing fingerprints, and processing crime scenes. Forensic Specialists will recognize, document, collect, process and preserve physical evidence such as fingerprints, firearm evidence, DNA through hair and fluids, fibers, impression evidence, and shoe or tire prints.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about forensic science, crime scene investigations, and in working for a "World Class" police department committed to excellence. To be most successful in this position you must be willing to work as part of a team, exercising high energy, and taking accountability and initiative to support a small and cohesive forensic unit.

To learn more about the Police Department click here: Pasadena Police Department ForensicsThe major responsibilities of this position are listed below. For more detailed information, please review the job description.

• Processes crime scenes requiring specialized techniques in recognizing, searching, collecting, and preserving all types of friction skin evidence and physical evidence.
• Develops, collects, and preserves latent fingerprints by dusting, and applying various chemical processes and utilizing alternative light source technology.
• Makes cast and impressions, including tool marks, tire tracks, and shoe impressions at crime scenes.
• Takes still and video photographs and/or recordings of crime scenes, victims and injuries, suspects, and traffic accidents.
• Fingerprints using ink and/or Livescan for criminal and non­criminal matters as assigned.
• Works around biohazard conditions at crime scenes and in the laboratory.
• Examines dead bodies in advance states of decomposition; responds to emotionally charged and/or gory crime scenes.
• Appears in court to testify as an expert witness on evidence collection, documentation, and processing of crime scenes.
• Takes physical measurements and prepares diagrams of crime scenes and traffic accidents.
• Performs a variety of technical and clerical duties; types crime scene diagrams and investigation reports.
• Prepares materials, evidence and reports for court.
• Participates in case related research projects and evaluates new procedures.

Competencies The following list represents the core competencies needed for success in this position.

• Attention to Detail - focuses on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products.
• Critical Thinking - analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims.
• Oral Communication - engages effectively in dialogue.
• Professional Integrity & Ethics - displays honesty, adherence to principles, and personal accountability.
• Writing Skills - ability to communicate effectively in writing.
• Teamwork - Collaborating with others to achieve shared goals

Education And Experience

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in a natural science, criminal justice or administration of justice with a focus in crime scene investigation, and at least one year of responsible experience in crime scene investigation with a law enforcement agency or an internship of at least 120 hours in forensic science.
• A Forensic Crime Scene Investigation certificate may be substituted for one year experience with a law enforcement agency.

Selection Process The selection process will consist of a training and experience evaluation, written test, interview panel, and department-level interviews. Probationary work period is eighteen months.

Vacancy Information There is currently one vacancy in the Forensics Unit of the Pasadena Police Department. The resulting eligibility list from this recruitment may be used to fill this vacancy and similar vacancies in future.

Successful completion of the state-mandated CLETS training program as required by the California State Department of Justice within six months of date of employment and ongoing maintenance of CLETS certification.

Certification as a Latent Print Examiner and/or Crime Scene Technician or Analyst is highly desirable.

Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment.

Successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation is required which may include a review of employment history, criminal conviction record, credit history, use of intoxicants and/or other controlled substances, and psychological evaluation.