Crime Scene Investigator Job Description

Crime scene investigators have the important job of securing and examining the details left at the scene of a crime. The job involves sorting through the minute details so that prosecutors can build a compelling case and find the perpetrator of the crime beyond a shadow of a doubt. Activities and protocols must be carried out in a precise and organized manner such as identifying the time of death in a homicide, lifting fingerprints, collecting and documenting trace evidence such as hair or fibers, examining firearms or explosive devices and documenting the placement of objects and bodies. It is no secret that the job is not for the faint at heart; however, for those with the right mental disposition, the job can be highly stimulating and rewarding.

Crime Scene Investigation Roles & Responsibilities

First Responders - Police, EMT, Paramedics

• Arrive first to respond to medical treatment needs
• Learn more about police officer training.

Homicide Investigator

• Questions witnesses at the scene of the crime

Criminalist

• Collects trace evidence such as hairs, fibers, blood, shoe prints, tire marks, etc.
• Depending upon type of crime, a may be in charge of ballistics, fingerprints, or blood placement and splatter
• Learn more about criminalistics degree options.

Crime Scene Photographer

• Crime Scene Photographer takes photographs of crime scene including bodies, evidence, and any details providing clues

Evidence Technician

• An Evidence Technician collects, receives, examines, and stores criminal evidence or property for investigations. CSI & Evidence Technicians work all physical evidence, impression evidence, and finger print evidence.

Forensic Pathologist

• Examines the body once it arrives at the morgue

Toxicologist / Coroner / Autopsy Photographer

• Analyzes bodily fluids. Coroner determines official cause of death.

Forensic Scientists

• Once trace evidence arrives, forensics scientists perform a variety of tests, extracting DNA, or examining evidence for specific clues.

Criminal Profiler

• Analyzes motives, criminal activity patterns, suggests additional forensic testing, and attempts to create a profile of the offender
• Learn more about getting a forensic psychology degree.

Arson/Fire Investigator

• Analyzes causes and motives behind arson and fires

Document & Signature Examiner

• Analyzes documents for alterations, handwriting comparisons, etc.