1. Crime Scene Investigator Occupation Information Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

2. What They Do A.Examine crime scenes to locate trace evidence, such as fingerprints, hair, fibers, or shoe impressions, using alternative light sources when necessary B.Photograph crime and accident scenes C.Analyze and process evidence at a crime lab D.Coordinate efforts with other law enforcement officials and testify in court to present evidence Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

3. Tools They Use A.Cameras and various lenses for photographing crime scenes B.Evidence collection kits for collecting samples of blood, hair, fibers, and fingerprints C.Ultraviolet UV lamps to illuminate fluids and fingerprints D.Computer software and databases, such as fingerprint identification systems and national crime center information databases Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

4. Working Conditions A.Indoors such as an office or crime labs B.Often called to a crime scene outdoors in various types of weather C.May be called to a crime scene at any time of the day or night, including weekends and holidays Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

5. Who They Work For A.Cities and municipalities B.Police departments C.Government institutions, such as the FBI, CIA, or military police Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

6. Training Required A.Crime scene investigators must have a high school diploma or GED. B.Most crime scene investigators are trained police officers. C.Many departments require a two-year degree in criminal justice with classes in crime scene investigation. Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

7. Skills A.Ability to follow protocol in collecting, packaging, and securing the chain of evidence collected from a crime scene B.Ability to identify and detect patterns that are hidden in other distracting materials C.Ability to document and record information in well written, comprehensive reports D.Ability to communicate clearly and give accurate testimony in a court of law Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

8. Knowledge Areas A.Protocol and procedures for collecting evidence B.Procedures for analyzing evidence in a crime lab C.The law, court procedures, government regulations, and agency rules D.Crime scene computer software and databases Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)

9. Income Median income for a crime scene investigator is $62,110 per year O*net Summary for Crime Scene Investigator Copyright Texas Education Agency (TEA)