The Seattle Police Department is actively recruiting Identification Technicians. This is a unique opportunity to work for our innovative and well-respected Department in an environment where you can put all of your existing skills to use, while learning new techniques in a highly motivated team atmosphere.  You will obtain, process, and compare fingerprints to determine identity and any prior criminal record; classify and enter fingerprints into the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS); have direct contact with incarcerated individuals and crime victims as well as law enforcement personnel; you will process evidence submitted from crime scenes; assist Latent Print Examiners in processing vehicles and crime scenes; and testify in court as to methods of analysis and results of fingerprint comparison.  You will need the ability to work with deceased bodies, some of which may be decomposed and you will be exposed to substances and matter that can be disturbing. You will need to handle other biologic and hazardous materials, in a safe, professional manner.  You will need the temperament to work with both the victims of crimes and potentially violent criminals for fingerprint collection.
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Review of Selection Standards
Please review the Seattle Police Department’s selection standards. It is very important that you review this information carefully and understand its contents.  If you do NOT meet one or more of the standards, you should decline further consideration of employment with the Seattle Police Department at this time.  Your current disqualification may not keep you from applying in the future, as many situations may remedy themselves over time.  Please contact the Background Investigation Unit at (206) 684-5464 to inquire further regarding your specific situation.  Please click below on “Civilian Applicants” to review the selection standards. [Civilian Applicants]

How to Apply
The Seattle Police Department is actively recruiting Identification Technicians.  This is a rare opening to work for our innovative and well-respected Department in an environment where you can put all of your existing skills to use, while learning new techniques in a highly motivated team atmosphere.

You may apply directly for open positions by visiting the
City of Seattle career portal and searching for "Indentification Tech".

Salary and Benefits

• Salary of $53.8K - $62.6K

• Opportunity to work in a new state-of-the art laboratory.

• The City of Seattle also has an impressive benefits package including paid health, dental, vision coverage for employees and dependents, paid holiday, vacation and sick leave, and a generous retirement plan.

Job Training and Work Environment
The Identification Section Team uses new state-of-the-art technology, and is part of the Department’s Forensic Support Services, which also includes the Latent Print Examiners, Evidence Unit, Photo Lab and Video Unit.

Desired Qualifications
Associate Degree in Biology, Sociology, Criminology, Forensic Science Certification and/or at least one year of experience in fingerprint processing and a familiarity with Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) technology. Coursework in Chemistry a plus.  Candidates will have experience exercising good judgment, problem solving, attention to detail, and making reliable decisions using critical thinking skills.  Candidates will be self-starters, self-motivated individuals with experience working in a team environment.  Previous public speaking experience highly desirable.

Position Qualifications and Requirements

• Completion of coursework including fingerprint science, fingerprint technology or Henry classification, and familiarity with NCIC Alphanumeric code. Transcripts will be required.

• Requires a minimum of one year of fingerprinting experience (or a combination of education, training, and/or experience that provides an equivalent background required to perform the work of the class).

• Must be able to work rotating shifts: day, swing and graveyard. 

• Must work mandatory overtime without notice if needed.

• Must stand, walk or bend for extended periods.

• Must handle or work with hazardous substances (i.e., blood, other body fluids and various hazardous chemicals).

• Must have the ability to lift up to 15 lbs.

• Must be able to process and obtain fingerprints from potentially abusive/threatening people.

• Must satisfy a Seattle Police Department background investigation.

• Must pass a physical exam by City-approved doctor.

• Must have a current driver’s license.

• Must pass a practical examination on fingerprinting at 80% or higher in order to be considered for an interview.

• Obtain a Washington State ACCESS/WACIS certificate within one year of employment.