Forensic Photographer I - Digital Media Specialist

Mission

The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner with uncompromised integrity.

To provide consistent, quality death investigation and laboratory analysis for the benefit of the entire community.

To create a technological strongpoint for legal agencies to facilitate justice in criminal and civil proceedings.

To establish an academic environment for training in the field of Forensic Science.

• Participates in the design and development of website and intranet sites, provides graphic design for print and digital media including conference materials, Department newsletter, and annual report
• Logs and archives photographs acquired at death scenes and during postmortem examinations by case number to ensure that all images are properly stored and secured; maintains archive of supplemental digital files related to cases including radiographs, video, and images from other agencies
• Provides A/V assistance during trainings and conferences including setup, recording, and streaming; and provides "troubleshooting" assistance to Department staff who utilize A/V equipment within the facility
• Other Duties as assigned: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are requested of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign, or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
• Produces postmortem examination photographs using professional digital cameras to document pertinent findings as determined by the forensic pathologists, provides photographic coverage of trainings and events as needed

Education

Experience:

Additional Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of composition, exposure, optics, photochemistry, lighting, ultraviolet and infrared filters, image enhancement techniques, and digital software to provide high-resolution images in varying conditions and circumstances
• Ability to adapt quickly to new applications and challenges, work in a team environment, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
• Ability to effectively express and present ideas, actively listen, and accept and effectively incorporate creative and constructive feedback
• Knowledge of the importance of branding and experience creating a strong organization identity
• Strong photography, graphic design, and audio/visual production skills; strong understanding of creative design and the ability to translate information and abstract concepts into compelling visuals including charts, graphs, informational graphics, and graphical design elements

Experience:

• Photography experience in a hospital, morgue, law enforcement agency, crime lab, medical examiner office, or related setting
• Two (2) years of professional photography experience

Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work:

• Monday-Friday, plus weekend and holiday rotation
• Must be available to work during severe weather events or other emergencies if necessary
• Full-Time | Regular | 40 hours per week
• Hours may vary based on needs of Department

• Work involves exposure to unpleasant odors and/or loud noises
• Possible outdoor work environment (including rain/wind) during scene photography
• Office / Morgue setting. Routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines
• May come in contact with blood and/or blood borne pathogens and will require training in Universal Precautions

• Light work. Requires physical strength to carry photography equipment weighing up to 10 pounds for extended periods
• Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time
• Bending and climbing ladders necessary

• Dental
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Medical
• Employee Assistance Program
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Wellness
• 10 days of vacation each year for the first five (5) years of service. Accrual rates increase based on years of service.
• 10 county holidays plus one (1) floating holiday
• Healthcare Reimbursement Account
• Professional development opportunities
• Life Insurance
• Long-term disability
• Vision