Crime Scene Examiner – Temporary (GMG/SEG 3) - Headquarters

Summary

The incumbent is responsible for the evaluation of crime scenes through meticulously documenting, collecting, securing, preserving, packaging and maintaining chain of custody for all physical evidence. Critically, the Crime Scene Examiner ensures the analysis and resolution of cases by providing accurate and reliable forensic evidence collected from the scene. Under the guidance of the Chief Crime Scene Examiner or the Crime Scene Analyst, he/she must also prepare detailed reports on the observations and activities at scenes, to include scene analysis and reconstruction for the Commission and testify in court. 💰 Remuneration: $5,198,035 – $6,990,779 JMD per annum plus applicable allowances.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• • Executes the operational plans of the Forensic and Crime Scene Department, in keeping with the Commission’s objectives;

• Manages and surveys scenes and analyses the events of an incident by:

  • • assessing the scene to determine the boundaries and common approach path;
  • • securing crime scenes to preserve the integrity of exhibits;
  • • mapping scenes by taking and documenting measurements using conventional methods, 3D scanning technology and drones, and collecting Global Positioning System co-ordinates;
  • • producing preliminary diagrammatic representation of the incident scene;
  • • formulating plans of action for processing and surveying crime scenes.

• Processes incident scenes by:

  • • conducting a detailed search of the scene using different probing techniques/methodologies;
  • • taking photographs, videos and contemporaneous notes of locations and exhibits in relation to incident scenes;
  • • Collecting, preserving, packaging and storing items of evidential value, to include biological and chemical biohazardous materials/samples;
  • • Examining, photographing and processing of vehicles, motorcycles and other modes of transportation for forensic and evidential analysis;
  • • processing digital images and maintaining photographic equipment;
  • • examining, collecting, preserving and developing latent finger prints on objects and on various substrates;
  • • processing and securing the body of the deceased;
  • • processing firearms, ammunition and other weapons to include collection of DNA swabs and trace evidence, and appropriately securing same for analytical purposes;
  • • collecting, packaging, labelling and escorting exhibits for Gunshot Residue (GSR) and biological analysis.
• • Develops and prioritizes lines of inquiry based on analysis of physical evidence and other data ascertained from the scene;
• • Conducts visual examinations, documentation and photography of injuries of complainants;
• • Prepares and reviews high-quality forensic reports and statements that document findings, interpretations and conclusions in a clear and concise manner; adhere to established standards and protocols, including proper documentation of methodologies, techniques and chain of custody; and conform with evidential and legal obligations.
• • Uses Computer Aided Design software (e.g. SketchUp and FaroCrimeZone) to produce 2D and 3D models of the incident scene;
• • Attends and documents post-mortem examinations (photograph and body diagrams), collecting evidence from Pathologists, or causing fingerprints to be collected;
• • Participates in peer review/proof reading of statements and reports;
• • Provides testimonies in judicial proceedings;
• • Maintains the accuracy, validity and reliability of crime scene processing techniques, in accordance with international best practices;
• • Maintains chain of custody for all exhibits through processing, indexing, tracking and forensic documentation to safeguard the integrity of all exhibits;
• • Analyses evidence to identify patterns, associations and potential links to suspects or other elements of the crime, employing scientific methodologies and forensic principles;
• • Conducts digital extraction and analysis on electronic and digital devices, to include tablets, mobile phones, Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and hard drives using forensic digital software to extract data;
• • Employs scientific methodology to examine bloodstain evidence within a crime scene utilizing appearance, shape, size, and distribution patterns of that evidence, to reconstruct the blood-shedding event;
• • Conducts reconstruction exercises to determine the sequence of events that occurred at a crime scene through scientific analysis and logical theory formation;
• • Encourages an environment of teamwork and collaboration with the investigative staff and other relevant stakeholders to achieve the Department’s objectives.
• • Performs assigned duties not specifically outlined within the job description, from time to time but within the capacity, qualifications and experience normally expected from a person occupying this position.

Required Skills

• Core:

  • • Good oral and written communication;
  • • Excellent time management, planning and organizational skills;
  • • Good interpersonal skills;
  • • Excellent analytical, judgment and problem-solving skills;
  • • Excellent diplomacy and collaborative skills;
  • • Ability to work on own initiative and result oriented;
  • • Ability to manage team-dynamics, optimize team effectiveness and enhance team interactions;
  • • Good customer service skills and the ability to communicate with persons from varying social backgrounds;
  • • Consistently displays integrity and model behaviour.

• Technical:

  • • Experience in writing and/or reviewing policies and/or procedures;
  • • Knowledge of forensic science principles, practices, procedures, and techniques used to prepare, examine, analyze, and identify evidence, and experience in the rigors of scientific analysis.
  • • Shares the Commission’s values, mission and vision;
  • • Knowledge of the collection and storage of biological, chemical, and ballistic material.
  • • Knowledge of applicable criminal laws, rules of criminal procedure, and evidence as it relates to Forensic Science.
  • • Working knowledge of investigative policies and prescribed investigative techniques.
  • • Knowledge of relevant computer systems, software and digital security available to assist in information gathering, processing and analysis; and,
  • • Appreciation of the Independent Commission of Investigations Act (INDECOM) Act and any other such Acts or Legislation governing the operation of INDECOM.

Qualifications

• • BSc. in Forensic Science, Natural Science, or Chemistry;
• • Three (3) years’ working experience in Crime Scene Examinations;
• • Certification in crime scene investigations is an asset.

Additional Information and Instructions

Applications, accompanied by résumés, should be submitted no later than Thursday, 17th July, 2025, to: ✉️ hrd@indecom.gov.jm ℹ️ N.B. Please include the job title in the subject line of your email. Thank you for your interest; however, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Share This Job