Job Description

Salary : $93,036.00 - $119,916.00 Annually

Location : City of Santa Cruz, CA

Job Type: Regular Full-Time

Job Number: 25-PD-07

Department: Police

Opening Date: 12/19/2024

Closing Date: 1/16/2025 5:00 PM Pacific

The Position


The current vacancy is for Police Digital Forensic Analyst for the Santa Cruz Police Department. The eligibility list established from this recruitment may be used to fill other Police Digital Forensic Analyst vacancies during the life of the list. The eligibility list established from this recruitment is valid for up to one year from the date established unless the list is extended or abolished by the Human Resource Director.

Under general supervision, performs complex forensic analysis and technical work in the examination, identification, and preservation of digital evidence, including computers, tablets, smartphones, digital media, electronic data storage, vehicle infotainment systems, video and surveillance systems, body worn cameras, and related material pertaining to law enforcement investigations; prepares reports and maintains records. The Digital Forensics Analyst is a non-sworn classification with no peace officer powers of arrest.

Come join a department that has received national and international acclaim for our innovative community-based policing strategies. We believe in fostering an environment of strong critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving. We have state-of-the-art training combined with an opportunity to make a difference in our community. To learn more about the Santa Cruz Police Department, and our mission, values, and priorities:

Recruitment #25-PD-07

Selection Timeline: (Note: The following process may be changed as deemed necessary by the Human Resources Director.)

• On Thursday 01/16/25 recruitment will close. All application materials must be received by the Human Resources Department by 5:00 pm; postmarks are not accepted. To apply, submit:

1. Application - online application only. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of filling out the application form completely. Click the Apply button to begin the online application process.
2. Response to supplemental questions - will be a primary tool in the evaluation of your qualifications for this position. Any work experience described here must also be included in your employment history on the main application.

• Weeks of 01/20 and 01/27/25 : Applications will be competitively screened based on the minimum qualifications for this position. All applicants will be notified of their status in the recruitment once all applications have been reviewed. Qualified candidates will be contacted to complete the required Non-sworn Personal History Statement to be considered for this position.
• Late February 2025: Top candidates will be contacted to schedule an interview.

Qualified candidates will be required to fill out a Non-Sworn Personal History Statement and undergo a thorough background investigation including a polygraph exam.

Typical Duties


(May include, but are not limited to, those duties listed below)

• Conducts complex forensic examinations and analysis of digital devices such as computers, laptops, hard drive imaging, vehicle infotainment systems, video surveillance systems, and cell phones.
• Determines best methods and techniques appropriate for extracting data from a variety of digital evidence items.
• Uses forensic software applications to access password-protected devices, secure files, and analyze data.
• Secures and collects digital and electronic devices and/or surveillance video.
• Prevents the transference of viruses, destructive programs, and inadvertent writes to and from the original media in the office or in the field.
• Physically disassembles and examines computers and related hardware components and documents computer hardware configurations and conditions.
• Prepares clear, comprehensive, technically sound, and accurate reports that include determined facts and conclusions to support investigations.
• As an expert witness, prepares and presents fair and impartial court testimony concerning findings established by analyses; may prepare courtroom displays and exhibits.
• Independently conducts routine preliminary investigations to assist a team of investigative sworn staff.
• Creates forensic images of original digital evidence; examines digital evidence utilizing various analytical techniques.
• Assists sworn staff to identify and log field evidence in compliance with search warrants and maintain the chain of evidence.
• Performs other related duties that may be reasonably expected as part of this classification.

WORKING CONDITIONS
On an intermittent basis, sit at a desk for long periods of time; intermittently walk, stand, bend, squat, twist and reach while retrieving and/or returning evidence; perform simple grasping and fine manipulation of equipment and/or tool uses in forensic work; use telephone and use a keyboard to communicate through written means, review information and enter/retrieve data; See and hear in the normal range with or without correction. Lift weights up to 50 lbs. of varying weight and shape. Work is primarily performed indoors in an office environment with fluorescent lighting and moderate noise levels, although some work is performed in the field with exposure to varying weather conditions. Some movement is required from office to office and indoor tasks are usually in a carpeted and air-conditioned office or laboratory environment with fluorescent lighting and moderate noise. Work is frequently disrupted by the need to respond to in-person and telephone inquiries. The position will include exposure to variable temperatures, confined workspaces, and heights; strong unpleasant odors; infectious bio-hazardous materials (e.g., blood, urine, and semen), which might cause chronic disease or death; dust, pollens, chemical irritants; toxic substances; individuals who may be hostile and abusive; evidence that may be disturbing. Additionally, off-site travel, attendance at multi-day off-site training sessions, weekend and evening work, and after-hours emergency call-outs may be required.

Minimum Qualifications


The minimum qualifications for Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities are the following:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in computer forensics, computer science, information technology, or criminal justice or a closely related field and,
• Two (2) years of experience in a position with a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency with responsibility for assisting with criminal investigations, identifying and collecting evidence, extracting and processing digital evidence, completing crime reports, and testifying in court regarding criminal cases.

OR

• High School Diploma or tested equivalent and,
• Four (4) years of responsible experience with a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency with responsibility for assisting with criminal investigations, identifying and collecting evidence, extracting and processing digital evidence, completing crime reports, and testifying in court regarding criminal cases.

Knowledge:

• Advanced investigative techniques related to computer and digital device forensics and forensic-related software.
• Methods and techniques used to access, recover, review, validate, and preserve electronically stored data files.
• Advanced use of digital forensic extraction and analysis equipment and software.
• Procedures, practices, and laws regarding evidence collection, preservation, and integrity.
• Acceptable practices and standards recognized as best practices for digital evidence collection and processing from the appropriate forensic accreditation board.
• Methods of restoring deleted files and accessing secured and encrypted data.
• Police procedures.
• Court testimony procedures and techniques.
• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Computer equipment and software applications related to assignment.

Abilities:

• Examine and analyze computer hardware, software, and electronically stored data pertaining to law enforcement investigations.
• Find and extract electronically stored information to be used as evidence.
• Analyze data and information retrieved during duties related to a specific investigation or crime, including disturbing and traumatic videos and images.
• Download and analyze surveillance videos.
• Prepare clear, accurate, and comprehensive written and oral reports.
• Use specialized digital forensics laboratory equipment and software.
• Maintain confidentiality of information; read, understand, and follow departmental policies, instructions, laws, and ordinances.
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, demonstrating tact, diplomacy, patience, and compassion.
• Work in a safe and prudent manner.
• Comply with laws, regulations, and professional practices governing law enforcement services and operations.
• Prepare and maintain clear, accurate and concise reports, records, and case statistics/findings.
• Effectively communicate with various people such as court officials, peace officers, attorneys, victims, witnesses, and suspects in diverse situations and environments.
• Use appropriate judgment to make immediate field decisions.
• Use initiative to develop leads and to research case information.

Licenses and Certificates

• Obtain vendor certifications for digital forensic tools in use by a department or vendor agnostic certifications as noted below within one year of date of hire.
  1. Required basic course - CCO (Cellebrite Certified Operator), and
  2. Required basic course - CCPA (Cellebrite Certified Physical Analyst),
  3. CCE (Certified Computer Examiner) (desirable),
  4. CFCE (Certified Forensic Computer Examiner) (desirable)
• Possession and continued maintenance of a valid California C driver's license.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Basic laws, ordinances, and procedures associated with the operation of the criminal justice system
• Major coursework in computer forensics.
• Subject matter and practices within an area of specialization, such as Crime Scene Investigation, Photography, and/or Digital Evidence.

SALARY - The current salary range for this position is posted on the City website. Appointment may be made commensurate with experience. See the on the City website for further details on pay rates and practices.

APPOINTMENT - Any candidate selected by the appointing department may be required to pass a pre-employment medical exam administered by a City-selected physician before hire to non-sedentary positions. Prior to starting work, all newly hired employees will be fingerprinted to check conviction history. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment. Candidates must present documentation verifying authorization to work in the United States and take a loyalty oath as required by the State of California at the time of hire. Appointments to regular positions are subject to a six-month probationary period which is considered a part of the selection process. Probationary employees may be terminated without recourse during this period. Positions which are covered by the Department of Transportation regulations are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test and to random drug and alcohol testing.

LEAVE

Vacation - 80 hours/year up to 5 years, 120 hours/year 6-10 years, plus 8 hours for each year after 10 years up to a maximum of 160 hours/year.

Sick - 12 days/year

Holidays - up to 11 days/year
Floating Holidays - 24 hours per year - prorated for part-time

INSURANCE - (available to employee and eligible dependents)

Medical - Depends on plan selected; City generally pays at least 90% of the cost of coverage. Participating members make an additional $35 contribution per pay period towards health care benefits.

Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program - City currently pays full cost of employee and family coverage. Pro-rated for part-time.

Life - City provides a $25,000 life insurance policy.

Long Term Disability - City provides a long term disability plan.

MANAGEMENT LEAVE/OPTIONAL BENEFIT PLAN

80 hours of additional vacation per year. A $1,300 (less than 10 yrs) or $1,500 (greater than 10 yrs) annual contribution may be used to purchase additional vacation, be place in deferred compensation account or be paid in cash (cashout limited to 20 hours).

RETIREMENT

All regular employees become members of PERS. Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) 2% @ 62 (3 year average). Prior PERS membership may affect retirement formula. Employees contribute 11.25% of their salary to PERS on a pre-tax basis. An employee is vested after 5 years of membership. No Social Security is withheld.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS (not all inclusive)

457 Deferred Compensation Plan

Accident Protection Insurance

Cancer and Critical Illness Insurance

Direct Deposit

Discount Bus Pass Program

Flexible Spending Plans for Health & Dependent Care

Longevity Pay (after 10 years and 15 years)

In lieu Medical Reimbursement of $200 /month

Supplemental Life Insurance
Tuition Reimbursement

01


Do you possess a high school diploma or tested equivalent?

• Yes
• No

02


This position requires possession and continued maintenance of a valid California driver's license.

• Yes, I have a valid California driver's license.
• I do not have a valid California driver's license. I understand that I will be required to obtain one prior to appointment as a condition of employment if selected for this position.

03


If you possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in computer forensics, computer science, information technology, or criminal justice or a closely related field, please indicate your degree, field of study, and institution where you received your degree. If you do not possess a Bachelor's in one of these fields, please write "N/A."

04


Describe in detail your experience in a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency with responsibility for assisting with criminal investigations, identifying and collecting evidence, extracting and processing digital evidence, completing crime reports, and testifying in court regarding criminal cases. Please refrain from utilizing computer-generated responses and answer in your own words.

05


Please check any of the following certifications that you currently possess and scan and attach proof to your application.

• Required Basic Course - CCO (Cellebrite Certified Operator). Not required to apply. Selected candidate will be required to obtain within one year of hire. Please check if you currently possess this certification.
• Required Basic Course - CCPA (Cellebrite Certified Physical Analyst). Not required to apply. Selected candidate will be required to obtain within one year of hire. Please check if you currently possess this certification.
• CFCE (Certified Forensic Computer Examiner). This is a Desirable Qualification and not required. Please check if you currently possess this certification.
• I do not currently possess any of the above certifications but understand that the selected candidate must obtain CCO (Cellebrite Certified Operator) andCCPA (Cellebrite Certified Physical Analyst) certifications within one year of date of hire.

06


DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: (Not required to apply) Please briefly describe if you possess any of the following Desirable Qualifications: 1) Basic laws, ordinances, and procedures associated with the operation of the criminal justice system. 2) Major coursework in computer forensics. 3) Subject matter and practices within an area of specialization, such as Crime Scene Investigation, Photography, and/or Digital Evidence.

Required Question City of Santa Cruz, CA

Job Tags

Holiday work, Full time, Part time, Work experience placement, Local area, Immediate start, Flexible hours, Weekend work, Afternoon shift,

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