The Crime Scene Investigator role
Are you looking for a career where you will be working alongside advancing technology to preserve, capture and assess evidence? Why not join South Wales Police as a Crime Scene Investigator?
As a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) it’s your role to gather forensic evidence from crime scenes that will ultimately lead to the detection and prosecution of criminals. You'll process crime scenes using specialist techniques to visualise, capture and recover evidence. A CSI will attend a variety of crime scenes, from volume crime such as burglaries and vehicle crime, to major incidents such as murder and sexual offences.
The person
This role is an essential part of our investigations work. The perfect candidate for this role will need to be able to demonstrate the following:
- Keen observation and problem-solving skills You will need to be able to break down seemingly straightforward problems into their component parts and determine the appropriate action.
- Organisation skills You will be required to process and categorise large amounts of evidence whilst managing a high volume of investigations, efficiently and effectively.
- Confidence when speaking in public Evidence that you collate will often be used in criminal proceedings, so the ability to present evidence in court and other hearings is a must.
The role
The role of a CSI is to attend at crime scenes when tasked. You will document and record the crime scene during the examination to locate, preserve and recover evidence. Typical responsibilities of the job include:
- Responding to and prioritising tasks from officers
- Handling evidence from investigations in line with agreed protocols to maintain the integrity, continuity and security of the evidence for investigative processes and court proceedings
- Establishing what evidence is required from incident scenes and developing a strategy as to how best to obtain it, ensuring all findings are available for the wider investigation
- Gathering forensic evidence such as samples of blood, hair, footwear impressions, etc., using appropriate scientific techniques
- Preserving evidence in protective packaging and submitting it away for forensic analysis
- Taking photographs and video of the scene
- Supporting the support the Criminal Justice process by providing accurate and timely Streamlined Forensic Reports (SFR), statements and other documentation
- Giving evidence in court
- You’ll develop and implement short term plans within each investigation to assist the wider investigative objectives
What is the entry route for CSI?
The entry route for CSI is through the Volume Crime Scene Investigator (VCSI) role. VCSIs can examine volume crime only (burglaries and vehicle crime). VCSIs attend a 5 week training course, after passing the probationary and mentoring periods. VCSIs examine crime scenes and recover evidence working on a shift pattern with the CSI colleagues.
How long does the recruitment process take?
The recruitment period for this role will depend on operational capacity. We would expect the process to take 1 – 3 months.
Is there a minimum or maximum age limit for people to apply?
You must be at least 18 years old to become a CSI. There is no upper age limit.
What qualifications will I need?
Candidates are required to have achieved at least GCSE A – C Levels in Maths and English and be prepared to attend and successfully complete the required Volume Crime Scene Investigation training courses organised by the force.
What are the working hours?
CSIs are on duty from 08:00 to 22:00 every day, including weekends and bank holidays. There are CSIs on call between 22:00 and 08:00. Shift work and occasional overtime will be required in this role.
Where will I be based?
Successful applicants will be based at one of the three CSI offices, depending on which site currently has a vacancy. The Regional CSI Department provides cover to South Wales & Gwent Police. Their CSI offices are based in; Ystrad Mynach, Cardiff (Fairwater) and Neath.
Email any further queries you have to: [email protected]
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