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Latent Fingerprint Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Examination of processed latent fingerprint and evaluation of their quality for entry into the DoD Enterprise ABIS and other Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS). * Preparation of ...

Train less skilled fingerprint examiners in fingerprint examination and analysis as needed. * Act ... latent fingerprints using both automated tools as well as manual methodologies to make a ...

Train less skilled fingerprint examiners in fingerprint examination and analysis as needed. * Act ... latent fingerprints using both automated tools as well as manual methodologies to make a ...

Train less skilled fingerprint examiners in fingerprint examination and analysis as needed * Act as ... latent fingerprints using both automated tools as well as manual methodologies to make a ...

Criminalist

Frisco, TX ยท On-site

$59K - $86K/yr

Maintains a comprehensive latent fingerprint collection by lifting latent fingerprints at crime scenes; analyze and interpret latent fingerprints, making positive identification, a negative ...

Criminalist

Frisco, TX

$59K - $86K/yr

Maintains a comprehensive latent fingerprint collection by lifting latent fingerprints at crime scenes; analyze and interpret latent fingerprints, making positive identification, a negative ...

Train less skilled fingerprint examiners in fingerprint examination and analysis as needed * Act as ... latent fingerprints using both automated tools as well as manual methodologies to make a ...

Identification Supervisor

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$50.37 - $60.95/hr

Full-time experience must include actual processing of fingerprint records or latent casework without training supervision. OR III Experience: The equivalent of three (3) years of full-time ...

Forensic Technician

Portsmouth, VA ยท On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

Maintains inventory of supplies for photo and fingerprint labs; mixes chemicals for latent fingerprint and photo lab use; handles chemical in accordance with the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS ...

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Latent Fingerprint information

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$36.5K

$54.3K

$85.5K

How much do latent fingerprint jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for latent fingerprint in the United States is $54,320.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are latent fingerprint examiners?

Latent fingerprint examiners are forensic specialists who analyze and compare fingerprints left at crime scenes, known as latent prints, which are not visible to the naked eye. They use specialized techniques and equipment to detect, enhance, and compare these prints to known fingerprint records. Their work helps law enforcement agencies identify suspects, link crimes, and provide crucial evidence in court cases. Latent fingerprint examiners often testify as expert witnesses during trials to explain their findings.

What are some common challenges faced by latent fingerprint examiners during casework, and how are they addressed?

Latent fingerprint examiners often encounter challenges such as poor-quality or partial prints, overlapping impressions, and environmental contaminants that make identification difficult. To address these issues, examiners use specialized enhancement techniques, digital imaging tools, and rigorous comparison protocols. Collaboration with other forensic professionals and ongoing training also help examiners maintain accuracy and reliability in their work. Additionally, peer review and quality assurance processes are in place to minimize errors and uphold high standards.

What is the difference between Latent Fingerprint vs Fingerprint Technician?

AspectLatent FingerprintFingerprint Technician
CertificationsForensic certifications, fingerprint analysis trainingForensic or law enforcement training, fingerprint analysis certifications
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, crime scenes, forensic labsLaw enforcement agencies, crime scenes, forensic labs
Job FocusAnalyzing and identifying latent fingerprintsCollecting, analyzing, and comparing fingerprints

Latent Fingerprints specialists focus on analyzing and identifying fingerprints found at crime scenes, often requiring specialized forensic training. Fingerprint Technicians typically perform fingerprint collection and comparison as part of law enforcement duties. While both roles involve fingerprint analysis, Latent Fingerprint experts usually work in forensic labs with a focus on identification, whereas Fingerprint Technicians are more involved in field collection and initial processing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Latent Fingerprint Examiner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Latent Fingerprint Examiner, you need a background in forensic science or criminal justice, with expertise in fingerprint identification and analysis, often supported by relevant certifications like IAI Latent Print Certification. Familiarity with fingerprint analysis software, Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), and laboratory protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills help examiners accurately analyze evidence and present findings in legal settings. These skills ensure the reliability and integrity of forensic evidence, which is crucial for supporting criminal investigations and judicial outcomes.
More about Latent Fingerprint jobs
What cities are hiring for Latent Fingerprint jobs? Cities with the most Latent Fingerprint job openings:
What states have the most Latent Fingerprint jobs? States with the most job openings for Latent Fingerprint jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Latent Fingerprint jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Latent Fingerprint jobs are:
Infographic showing various Latent Fingerprint job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,320 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Latent Print Examiner

St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department

Saint Louis, MO โ€ข On-site

$51K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Submit an application at https://slmpd.org/latent-print-examiner/

POSITION SUMMARY

This position prepares and identifies latent fingerprint evidence of subjects. Duties include processing evidence for possible latent fingerprints, testifying in court and maintaining latent fingerprint files.

FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

Essential Functions

  • Classifies and compares latent fingerprint evidence to identify and eliminate suspects of crimes.
  • Analyzes, Compares, Evaluates and Verifies latent print evidence to identify and/or eliminate subjects in criminal justice matters. Contacts appropriate authorities once verification is made and prepares lab reports.
  • Contacts appropriate authorities once identification is made and prepares lab reports on identifications.
  • Evaluates latent fingerprint evidence for possible value.
  • Processes evidence for possible latent fingerprints using powders or chemicals and then photographs evidence.
  • Maintains and protects criminal evidence in personal custody.
  • Testifies in court regarding latent fingerprint evidence identifications. Prepares exhibits and charts for court presentations.
  • Maintains latent fingerprint evidence files.
  • Maintains supplies used in processing crime scenes for the Evidence Technician Unit.
  • Uses state and federal Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems.
  • Regularly provides identification services to other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
  • Complies with revisions from time to time after mutual consultation.
  • Lectures and trains on the science of fingerprint technology to the St. Louis Police Academy and other local educational institutions.
  • Classifies searches and compares fingerprints on arrested and potential suspects for identification.
  • Performs name and fingerprint identification checks and notifies the appropriate authorities.
  • Fingerprints unconscious or deceased subjects to establish identity.
  • Fingerprints and photographs subjects in accordance with established procedures (e.g. new employees, juveniles, etc.).
  • Performs the duties of fingerprint technicians when necessary.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Must possess and maintain a valid Missouri driverโ€™s license while employed by the City of St. Louis.
  • Must obtain AFIS Certification by the Missouri Highway Patrol within 24 months of date of hire; become REJIS and MULES certified; and obtain IAI Latent Certification. All certifications must be maintained while employed by the City of St. Louis.

Knowledge:

An Associateโ€™s degree in Physical Science or Criminal Justice.

Experience:

Two years of experience in Latent Fingerprint Technology, OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Data Utilization: Requires the ability to perform basic level of data analysis including the ability to review, classify, categorize, prioritize and/or reference data, statutes and/or guidelines and/or group, rank, and investigate. Requires discretion in determining and referencing such to established standards to recognize interactive effects and relationships.
  • Human Interaction: Requires the ability to provide guidance, assistance and/or interpretation to others, such as coworkers and the public, on how to apply policies, procedures and standards to specific situations.
  • Equipment, Machinery, Tools and Materials Use: Requires the ability to operate, maneuver and/or provide simple but continuous adjustment on equipment, machinery and tools such as typewriter, personal computer, computer terminal and scanner, copier, fax, fingerprint magnifier, Polaroid camera, computerized camera, multiple computer programs, and/or materials used in performing essential functions.
  • Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference and descriptive data and information such as forms, orders, packing slips, schedules and general operating manuals.
  • Mathematical Aptitude: Requires the ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division; calculate decimals, fractions and decimals; perform mathematical operations involving basic algebra.
  • Functional Reasoning: Requires the ability to apply principles of rational systems. Ability to interpret instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic or schedule form. Ability to exercise independent judgment to adopt or modify methods and standards to meet variations in assigned objectives.
  • Situational Reasoning: Requires the ability to exercise the judgment, decisiveness and creativity required in situations involving the evaluation of information against measurable or verifiable criteria.
  • Environmental Factors: Tasks may risk exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as wetness, humidity, rain, fumes, temperature extremes, traffic hazards and toxic/poisonous agents.
  • Physical Requirements: Requires the ability to lift, push and pull samples weighing up to twenty (20) pounds.
  • Sensory Requirements: Requires the ability to recognize and identify similarities or differences between characteristics of colors and shapes to analyze samples, and sounds to operate motor vehicles.

Working Environment:

  • Normal office environment with attending outside functions when required.

Machines, Tools, Equipment and Work Aids:

  • Personal Computer
  • Telephone
  • Cell Phone
  • Copier/Fax Machine
  • Vehicle

PHYSICAL/VISUAL ACTIVITIES OR DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, reach, grasp, talk, and hear.

This position requires clarity of vision at 20 inches or less and the ability to bring objects into sharp focus, while reading from a computer screen.

The job has light physical demand (primarily sedentary) requiring the employee to exert negligible force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects in the normal course of routine office activities.

The St. Louis Metropolitan is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The job description does not necessarily contain all of the actual or essential duties of this position. All job offers are contingent upon passing a medical evaluation/drug screen and criminal background check.

Certain job functions described herein may be subject to possible modification in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

"Commonly associated" is not intended to mean always or only. There are different experiences that suggest other ways or circumstances where reasonable changes or accommodations are appropriate.

Company Description

Welcome to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the home to some of the nationโ€™s finest police officers and civilian employees. Established in 1808, our Department has a rich history and many traditions. We strive to provide the city of St. Louis with the highest level of police service.
Our department is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and we are committed to community policing. Our workforce is made up of over 400 civilian employees and 1,100 sworn officers. Our police officers interact daily with citizens and they have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of St. Louisans. We believe policing is one of the most rewarding and noble professions.