JOB TITLE: FINGERPRINT TECHNICIAN

JOB CODE: 72020

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The Fingerprint Technician job series describes work in the analysis, classification, and identification of fingerprints.

DEFINITION: This is technical work classifying, examining, and matching fingerprints and palm prints.

An employee in this job is responsible for the identification and non-identification of individuals through automated and manual fingerprint and palm print examination, comparison, and verification. Work involves assessing print quality, identifying print classification patterns, scanning prints and entering related data into the Multimodal Biometric Identification System (MBIS), querying the system and examining possible matches, verifying matches, and maintaining records. Work includes validating identification determinations made by other technicians. Work is performed with considerable independence under the general direction of a Fingerprint Technician Supervisor and in accordance with established policies, procedures, and standards.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Operates the MBIS by processing fingerprints and palm prints of individuals submitted by a law enforcement or governmental agency.

• Performs side-by-side image comparisons of the source prints to possible matches generated by the MBIS and determines any matches.

• Validates identification of fingerprint matches and non-matches made by other technicians prior to the update and release of MBIS records.

• Performs print card control by assessing print quality and processing prints that meet standards for input to the MBIS.

• Monitors the Error Resolution Terminal (ERT) to detect data discrepancies and reviews submitted prints for accuracy and quality.

• Performs corrective actions in MBIS to ensure the integrity of federal and commonwealth print records.

• Provides technical assistance to law enforcement and governmental agencies and resolves problems associated with submitting digital and ink prints to the department.

• Consolidates records that are determined to pertain to the same individual.

• Purges electronic prints, photos, and data in compliance with expungement orders.

• Provides and maintains electronic and hardcopy print files and records.

• Monitors MBIS, ERT, and other queues to determine status and ensure timely execution and completion of work being processed.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the procedures and techniques used in fingerprint and palm print classification, searching, and matching.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to visually distinguish fine variations in images.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: (NOTE: Based on the Entry Level Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities)

• Six months of experience in the identification and non-identification of individuals through fingerprint and palm print examination, comparison, and verification;

or

• Successful completion of the fingerprint identification course offered by the Pennsylvania State Police.