Note: Current Employees must use the Workday Dashboard career section to apply for this position.
Employee Type
Regular Department: Sheriff Salary: $65,332.80 - $91,000.00 Annually / $5,444.40 - $7,583.33 Monthly / $31.41 - $43.75 Hourly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40 Overtime Eligibile: Yes Job Posting Date Range: 07/28/2026 - 08/25/2026 REQUIRED DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST: 1. THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS MUST BE UPLOADED WITH YOUR APPLICATION: Copy of Valid Driver's License (front side only) Copy of DD-214 Member-4 Form, NGB-22 Form, or equivalent (if applicable; see RCW 41.04.010 as to how Veteran's Preference is applied) Copy of Permanent Resident Card AKA "Green Card" (if applicable; front side only) Copy of Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card / Form I-797 (Notice of Action) / Form I-821D (if applicable; Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients) 2. OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY THE SCHOOL REGISTRAR OR THEIR THIRD-PARTY AFFILIATE: Official transcripts from the school of your highest level of education and/or transcripts showing proof of your highest degree obtained must be submitted to the Civil Service office in order to move forward in the hiring process. All transcripts must be official documents; they cannot be uploaded to the application by the applicant. Examples: If your highest level of education is high school or equivalent (GED), you would order ONLY your high school/GED transcript; if you graduated high school and have some college credits, but no degree, you will need to order BOTH high school and college transcripts; if you have an Associate's or higher degree and no additional college, then ONLY order the transcript showing proof of your highest degree; if you have an Associate's or higher degree plus additional college, please order BOTH college transcripts, etc. Accepted methods for transcript submission: PREFERRED - Electronic Submission: If your school distributes official, electronic transcripts, have your school registrar email the official transcripts directly to: CS@SpokaneCounty.gov (electronic transcripts will ONLY be accepted if sent directly by the school registrar or their 3rd party affiliate; applicants may not email transcripts directly) Alternate Arrangements: Only if your school does not issue electronic transcripts, sealed official transcripts may be mailed to: Spokane County Civil Service, 13033 W. SR 902, Spokane, WA 99224. If you have already submitted official transcripts to Spokane County Civil Service (including for previous applications), please do NOT resubmit. If you are unsure, please contact our office at 509-477-4711, extension 2 to verify. ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED. RESUMES ARE NOT ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF COMPLETE APPLICATIONS. **IF ANY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS ARE NOT UPLOADED WITH AN APPLICATION OR SUBMITTED TO CIVIL SERVICE BY THE GIVEN DEADLINE, THE APPLICATION WILL BE CONSIDERED INCOMPLETE AND WILL NOT BE ADVANCED.** Additional Information: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on Monday, August 24, 2026. The posting will close promptly at 12:00 AM on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
Job Summary
The Forensic Lead Specialist serves as the primary trainer and technical lead in either the latent print or crime scene discipline within the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Unit. This includes training on evidence processing, friction ridge examination, photography, and crime scene investigation. *** This is not a remote position; all work will be performed in-person on site and/or in the field. *** Job Description: MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Must be a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, or a deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) recipient; must be able to speak, read, and write the English language; high school diploma or GED. Applicants must be a minimum age of 21 years old at the time of application. In addition to the above requirements, applicants must qualify in ALL of the following categories: Earned a Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university with a major in forensic science, natural science, criminal justice or other fields having close bearing on forensics. This degree requirement is not intended to disqualify friction ridge examiners and crime scene investigators who are already trained to competency. Obtained a combined total equivalent to at least five (5) years of full-time technical experience in friction ridge examination and/or forensic crime scene investigation. A valid driver’s license is required at the time of application and must be retained throughout employment. Applicant is required to undergo and successfully complete a full background investigation with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office’s Background Investigation Unit prior to being hired by the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. ************************ REQUIRED ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS FOR EXTERNAL APPLICANTS: In addition to the above required documents, the following must also be submitted with your application: Copy of any Training Records and Certifications relevant to this position (Must be uploaded with your application) Copy of IAI Certified Latent Print Examiner certificate and/or IAI Certified Crime Scene Investigator certificate, if applicable. CURRENT SPOKANE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE FORENSIC UNIT EMPLOYEES ONLY: Instead of the required documents listed above, the following must be submitted with your application: Professional Resume - 2 pages maximum Copy of Training Records with the Spokane County Sheriff's Office (these can be downloaded from SETS) Copy of IAI Certified Latent Print Examiner certificate and/or IAI Certified Crime Scene Investigator certificate, if applicable. Copy of DD-214 Member-4 Form, NGB-22 Form, or equivalent (if applicable; see RCW 41.04.010 as to how Veteran's Preference is applied to promotional exams) ************************* TESTING INFORMATION: Training &
Experience
Form: Applicants who meet the minimum requirements and submit complete applications prior to the deadline will be emailed a Training &
Experience
(T&E) Form after the position closes to be completed and submitted by a specified due date. Oral Board Interview: Date to be determined (TBD) based upon the number of qualified applicants who submit complete T&Es by the due date. Overall placement on the eligibility list will be determined by a combination of 50% Training &
Experience
Form score and 50% Oral Board Interview score, plus any additional points that may be awarded per RCW and Civil Service Rules. An overall combined score of at least 70% must be achieved in order to be placed on the eligibility list. Additional points will not be added until a passing score of 70% has been achieved. ************************* ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as an exclusive list of all essential job functions performed by all employees in this classification, but only as a representative summary of the primary job functions and responsibilities. Incumbent may not be required to perform all job functions and may be required to perform additional, position specific tasks. Create and maintain training curriculum for the Forensic Unit. Provide or oversee training for Forensic Technicians and Forensic Specialists and maintain documentation of training. Provide or oversee training to partnering law enforcement entities outside of the Forensic Unit in the areas of evidence collection, friction ridge processing, and photography. Keep current on developments within forensic science. Perform technical reviews of Forensic Unit case work. Provide expert testimony in court. Perform friction ridge examinations. Be available for evening and weekend call outs, as required. Perform other duties as assigned. DEPARTMENTAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Vision correctable to 20/20 with normal color vision. Hearing correctable to normal ranges. Strength sufficient to safely lift up to 50 pounds, occasionally. Ability to stand for long periods of time. Respond to scenes that may be considered graphic and/or grossly offensive to human senses. Be available for evening and weekend call outs. DEPARTMENTAL EXPECTATION: Successful candidate must obtain the International Association for Identification (IAI) certification (Certified Latent Print Examiner or Certified Crime Scene Examiner) within two (2) years of employment if not already obtained at the time of application. BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS: All employees of the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office are responsible for contributing to a safe, productive, and positive work environment, by being self-motivated and actively demonstrating the core values of the Sheriff’s Office in their daily work and interactions: Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, co-workers, managers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness, and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner. Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; a team player that helps the organization meet its objectives by taking initiative; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us. Integrity: Positively represents the organization and the County by modeling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards. Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures, or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement, empowerment, and embracing continuous improvement. ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Combined technical experience in both latent print examination and crime scene investigation and certification as an IAI Certified Latent Print Examiner and/or IAI Certified Crime Scene Investigator (any level) at the time of application are preferred. Knowledge of: Latent Print topics Friction ridge examination and the ACE-V methodology An automated identification system (MBIS, ABIS or AFIS) Processing and documentation of latent fingerprints Crime Scene topics Crime scene processing and documentation to include photography Processing and documentation of latent prints in the field Courtroom procedures and rules of evidence with reference to fingerprints and crime scenes Skilled in: Communicating effectively, both orally and in writing Coaching, guiding and directing personnel Use of digital imaging software such as Adobe Photoshop or other photographic reproduction systems Use of a digital camera and crime scene photography Ability to: Establish and maintain accurate records Develop, plan, design and conduct training Verify and technically review friction ridge examinations or crime scene reports Testing
Requirements
Training &
Experience
Form and Oral Board Interview Total Compensation: $83,626 - $116,480 Annually Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices. Please select the link below to view Spokane County
Benefits
Benefits
| Spokane County, WA Here are just a few reasons: Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents. Whether through public safety, infrastructure projects, or social services, employees can make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while contributing to the overall well-being and development of the community. Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more. This diversity allows for many employment opportunities for individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets. Job Stability and
Benefits
Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees. Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications. Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well-being. If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place! Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees. Spokane boasts: Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there's something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent. Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety. Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness. Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement. Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University. Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family. Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas. Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work! Click to learn more about our extensive benefits package.