Description
Collect evidence at crime scene, classify and identify fingerprints, and photograph evidence for use in criminal and civil cases.
- • Photograph crime or accident scenes for evidence records.
- • Testify in court and present evidence.
- • Dust selected areas of crime scene and lift latent fingerprints, adhering to proper preservation procedures.
- • Look for trace evidence, such as fingerprints, hairs, fibers, or shoe impressions, using alternative light sources when necessary.
- • Package, store and retrieve evidence.
- • Perform emergency work during off-hours.
- • Process film and prints from crime or accident scenes.
- • Maintain records of evidence and write and review reports.
- • Submit evidence to supervisors, crime labs, or court officials for legal proceedings.
- • Identify, compare, classify, and file fingerprints, using systems such as Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) or the Henry Classification System.
- • Serve as technical advisor and coordinate with other law enforcement workers or legal personnel to exchange information on crime scene collection activities.
- • Coordinate or conduct instructional classes or in-services, such as citizen police academy classes and crime scene training for other officers.
- • Interview survivors, witnesses, suspects, and other law enforcement personnel.
- • Analyze and process evidence at crime scenes, during autopsies, or in the laboratory, wearing protective equipment and using powders and chemicals.
- • Create sketches and diagrams, by hand or computer software, to depict crime scenes.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Available on paid plans only
Interview time
Related Pathways
Public Service & Safety
View
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
