Salary: $49.66 Hourly
Location : Sheriff Department 701 Ball Avenue NE Grand Rapids
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2608-301-745
Department: Sheriff
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/28/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Responsibilities

The role in question is a highly specialized forensic position within the Kent County Sheriff's Office, focusing on leading the Crime Scene Unit (CSU) Specialists. The primary responsibilities of this position include assessing and addressing the training needs of the CSU staff, and ensuring their ongoing professional development through selected courses pertinent to their field. Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for assigning specialists to particular cases, scrutinizing their methodology and reports, and appraising the performance of subordinate staff.

The candidate should have the foresight to anticipate and adapt to the unit's future needs, including predicting and integrating necessary technological advancements, and implementing changes to maintain the unit's preparedness and success in the dynamic field of crime scene forensics. Additionally, a key part of the role is to formulate, document, implement, and regularly update technical procedures and protocols, ensuring adherence to technical and legal standards. This is crucial for preserving the unit's technical efficacy and legal compliance, aligned with recognized accreditation practices and standards in forensic science.

Furthermore, the candidate must be adept in executing and imparting all the functionalities of a Crime Scene Unit Specialist, including ensuring the effective training and onboarding of new CSU Specialists. This encompasses substantial supervision and active involvement in major criminal investigations, particularly homicides, ensuring that all tasks are executed meticulously per established forensic protocols. The role also entails serving as the primary forensic contact with the Michigan State Police Laboratory and the YWCA Nurse Examiner Program, alongside coordinating crime scene responses with various law enforcement agencies. Additionally, the candidate will manage deliverables, oversee billing for services rendered by the Kent County Sheriff's Office, and prepare and maintain statistical data for the unit, which is essential for administrative purposes.

The position requires the person to represent the Kent County Sheriff's Office at community events, showing a professional image of the department. Additionally, they must be able to work different shifts, including being on call, to ensure the Crime Scene Unit is always staffed and ready, as it operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year. This role demands flexibility and a strong commitment to managing the unit's needs at all times.

This position maintains a direct reporting line to the Detective Lieutenant in Charge of the Crime Scene Unit. Furthermore, the recruitment process for this position includes a comprehensive background check and a mandatory drug test.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Medical Technology, Forensic Anthropology, Engineering, or a similar natural science field.

Experience: Four years of progressively responsible experience in evidence collection, crime scene investigation, and laboratory analysis; experience in supervision and training is also necessary.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Legal Knowledge: Understanding of federal, state, county, and local statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations governing the collection and admissibility of evidence.

Computer Skills: Proficiency in Excel, databases, graphics, CAD, digital photography software, and flowcharting.

Additional Experience: Prefer at least five years of prior experience in processing crime scenes.

Knowledge of Safety Protocols: Thorough working knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and procedures, and compliance with OSHA/MIOSHA rules, regulations, and requirements.

Forensic Science Principles: Working knowledge of accepted principles and practices of forensic science.

Continuing Education: Ongoing continuing education and attendance at relevant training sessions or conferences are essential to maintain proficiency and stay updated in the field.

Skills: Accurate and complete documentation, supervisory and organizational skills, and excellent oral and written communication skills.