forensic investigation experience

[Kimble]

As I've stated in previous posts, I'm currently a grad student in CJ with asperations of FLE. I've applied to several agencies, qualified with some but needing more experience with many of the larger ones. I'm currently in a graduate forensics class and came across a state agency with a position I'm qualified for. The position is Forensic Investigator with the state's Department of Forensic Sciences, with requries the investigator to be certified by the state's Police Officers Standards and Training Commission and gives the same authority of state troopers in regards to arrest and firearm carry. The description for the position is a follows "conducting complex and technical criminal investigations in the enforcement of state and federal laws and regulations. Employees in this class conduct highly confidential investigations of criminal activities involving organized crime, racketeering activities, medical services fraud and abuse, consumer fraud, ethics violations, and other white collar and economic crimes. They carry out a wide variety of investigations, surveillance assignments, and assist in the preparation of files and evidence for criminal prosecution of violators." Judging from the description of the position, I'm wondering if an investigative position of this nature would be good experience (after about 5 years on the job) for applying for some of the larger 1811 jobs (USSS, ICE, DEA, ATF, etc.)?

[Sleuth]

Generally, no. The forensic investigators I am familiar with only handled the 'scientific' portion of the investigation. The development, survellience, arrest, and reporting was all done by the case agent. On the other hand, it can get you foot in the door if you want to continue on the scientific side, and it does not hurt you. But it will not help you toward that 1811 slot.

[LidaRose]

I'm hoping to get my foot in the door at the local Sheriff's dept or something even before I do my co-op. I'm studying criminal justice/latent evidence. Just my 2 cents there.

LR

[Kimble]

Thanks for the advice. Since I'm interested in an 1811 position down the road, instead of support, I believe I may pass on this job opportunity for something else more relevant to the investigative field. I've talked with some others who work with this state department and they say the position is mainly a body dragger, picking up corpses on the scene and bringing to the morgue, not much investigations. I'm still trying to talk to one who actually has this position to find out more first hand, though. Thanks again for the advice.

[freshu07]

I noticed the same exact post on the 911 forums. heh, must be you posting on both.

[Kimble]

I noticed the same exact post on the 911 forums. heh, must be you posting on both.

You caught me... but both sites offer a ton of insight from different people, figured it couldn't hurt to find out perspectives from both sites.