Forensic Unit Internship
Class Title
Internship (General)
Class Code
INTERNSHIP
Salary
$0.00 Hourly
General Purpose
This is a developmental opportunity, designed to provide on-the-job training and experience to students or recent college graduates, related to forensics. Incumbents will be expected to complete a research project – such as verification of a method of fingerprint development – and present their findings to the Spokane County Forensic Unit. The internship is structured so the student has an opportunity to explore a career path in the field of forensics. Interns receive basic training in select topics of their choosing (fundamentals of latent print comparison or photography), as well as supervision and mentorship by a professional in their field.
Essential Job Functions
- Receives guidance, training, and mentoring from professional personnel in planning and carrying out activities and assignments.
- As appropriate to the position and as specified by unit management, conducts original research and prepares a presentation based on findings, to include recommendations or alternative proposals for action which the Spokane County Sheriff Forensic Unit may consider when implementing new or novel methods.
- Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Education and Experience Requirements
- Must show proof of enrollment in an accredited post-secondary institution or program at the time of the Internship. If the Internship occurs during the summer, the student may either provide proof of summer or fall enrollment.
- A course of study focused on natural sciences (biology, chemistry) or criminal justice is preferred, but not required.
- No previous work experience is required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Increase Knowledge of:
- Methods of developing latent prints
- Fingerprint pattern types, classification, and basic principles of comparison
- Basic photography concepts and how photography is used to document evidence
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in a laboratory setting
Increase Ability to:
- Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in a professional laboratory environment.
- Gather, organize, analyze and present information and data from a variety of sources.
- Understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
- Understand and apply concepts applicable to the area of assignment.
- Work both independently and/or in a team environment.
- Exercise effective time management and handle multiple priorities at one time.
- Utilize various work-related computer technology, software applications, or specialized equipment related to photography and fingerprint development.
Behavioral Standards
All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions:
- Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner.
- Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us.
- Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards.
- Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement.
