Salary : $58,572.80 Annually
Location : Houston, TX
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 2026-1303-E
Department: Special Investigations Bureau
Opening Date: 05/22/2026
Closing Date: 5/29/2026 11:59 PM Central
POSITION OVERVIEWThe Forensic Technician plays a vital role in the documentation, management, and technical support of crime scene investigations. This civilian position is responsible for handling digital evidence, managing forensic databases, and supporting the investigative team with specialized technical expertise. The technician will operate tools such as the Coreforce database and enter data into NIBIN (National Integrated Ballistic Information Network). This position allows certified law enforcement officers to focus on investigative functions by civilianizing essential but non-sworn tasks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:- Manage and maintain the Coreforce database for digital crime scene evidence
- Fulfill digital evidence requests for internal and external agencies
- Perform data entry and upload of ballistic information into NIBIN
- Maintain accurate chain of custody records and comply with evidentiary protocols
- Respond to inquiries from the public and legal entities regarding forensic documentation
- Maintain an inventory of forensic equipment, supplies, and evidence tracking materials
- Prepare visual presentations (e.g., PowerPoint) and data spreadsheets for case support
- Responds to inquiries from the public, law enforcement agencies, crime laboratories, the Harris County District Attorney's Office, the County Attorney's Office, and the Institute of Forensic Science
- Maintain a filing system of memoranda, letters, documents, and other materials for the assigned duty section
- Maintain the tracking of evidence and related laboratory request forms for all evidence submitted to the Crime Scene Investigations Section
- Comply with Harris County civil service and departmental rules, as well as applicable federal and state laws
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
- Work varied shifts and overtime as required, with occasional field assignments
- Contribute to the development and implementation of best practices and standard operating procedures
- Performs other duties as assigned within the scope and responsibility of the position.
This Job Description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this position. At its discretion, management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS- Bachelor's degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field
- At least two (2) years of experience in a forensic, crime scene, or evidence-handling environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, RMS, and digital asset management systems
- Strong attention to detail, organizational, and time management skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Must possess certifications in NIBIN - Triage and Acquisition Training
- Ability to work independently and within a team in high-stress environments
- Must maintain confidentiality and follow all legal standards for evidence handling
NOTE: An equivalent combination of education and practical experience, training, or certifications to match the competencies of the position may be considered. Completion of an approved internship with the HCSO Crime Scene Investigations Unit will be considered in lieu of two (2) years of experience.
Skills and Abilities: - Proficiency with digital evidence systems such as Coreforce and NIBIN
- Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, RMS, and case management systems
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
- Ability to accurately manage evidence, prepare reports, and maintain data integrity
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and work in sensitive, high-pressure environments
- Capable of multitasking, managing deadlines, and adapting to changing priorities
- Knowledge of public records laws, chain of custody requirements, and law enforcement protocols
- Certification from Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC) or International Association for Identification (IAI)
- CJIS certification
- Bilingual skills
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.
- Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality
PREFERENCES- Certification from Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC) or International Association for Identification (IAI)
- CJIS certification
- Bilingual skills
GENERAL INFORMATIONWork Environment & Physical Demands:- Office and field work at indoor and outdoor crime scenes
- Exposure to sensitive and potentially graphic crime scenes
- Use of standard office equipment and forensic technology tools
Position Type and Typical Hours of WorkThis is a full-time position in a 24/7 Operation. Days and hours may vary and be subject to various shifts. Must be willing to work overtime as needed.
Equal Opportunity StatementHarris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
BENEFITSHarris County offers a competitive benefits program, including comprehensive group health and related benefits plan as well as a defined benefit retirement plan.
The following list of benefits is offered
only to employees in
regular (full-time) positions:
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Wellness
- Life Insurance
- Long-term disability
- Employee Assistance Program
- 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
- Paid Parental Leave
- Professional development opportunities
- Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
- Healthcare Reimbursement Account
- 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
The following benefits are also available to regular (full-time) employment and may be available to part-time employees:
- Retirement pension (TCDRS)
- Flexible schedules (varies by department)
- Transportation Assistance (Metro RideSponsor Program)
In accordance with the Harris County Personnel Regulations, Group Health and related benefits are subject to amendment or discontinuance at any time. Commissioners Court reserves the right to make benefit modifications on the County's behalf as needed.
For plan details, visit the Harris County benefits website: 01
What is the highest level of education you have completed in a specific field related to the area of assignment as it pertains to this position? Please select from below.
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent
- Associate degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field
- Associate's degree in another field of study
- Bachelor's degree in forensic science, Criminal Justice, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field
- Bachelor's degree in another field of study
- Master's degree or higher in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, Biology, Chemistry, or a closely related field
- Master's degree or higher in another field of study
- Not Applicable
02
Which of the following best describes your years of relevant experience in a forensic, crime scene, or evidence-handling environment?
- Two (2) years, but less than three (3) years
- Three (3) years, but less than four (4) years
- Four (4) years, but less than five (5) years
- Five (5) years, but less than six (6) years
- Six (6) years, but less than seven (7) years
- Seven (7) years, but less than eight (8) years
- More than eight (8) years
- Not applicable
03
Regarding this role, do any of the following apply to you?
- Certification from Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC) or International Association for Identification (IAI)
- CJIS certification
- Bilingual skills
- Not Applicable
04
Are you proficient in?
- Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint, and RMS
- Digital asset management systems
- Not applicable
05
Do you have certifications in NIBIN - Triage and Acquisition Training?
06
Employees of the Harris County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) are exposed to confidential and law enforcement sensitive information. A thorough background investigation is required to properly evaluate the suitability of applicants for employment. For this reason, it is essential that you provide accurate information in all aspects of the process. The process will end for applicants who fail to provide truthful information. The following questions address information required to start the pre-qualifying requirements of the recruitment process. All information obtained herein will be used for purposes of initiating a background investigation only. Additional questionnaires will be required at later stages of the application process. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin or disability.
- I have read the above statement and understand that by submitting this application I agree to be subject to a background investigation including but not limited to education, employment, driving record, criminal history, financial responsibility, or any such areas of investigation deemed reasonable and justifiable for purpose of employment with the HCSO.
07
Please provide your full name (Last Name, First Name, Middle Name (no initials)
08
Please provide your date of birth. (MM/DD/YYYY)
09
Please select your age range below. (As of today)
- 21 years or older
- 18 to 20 years old
- 17 or younger
10
Please Provide your Social Security Number (SSN)
11
Which of the following citizenship status apply to you?
- United States Citizen (Born or Naturalized)
- Permanent Resident (Legally authorized to live and work in the United States)
- None of the above
12
Please provide your place of birth (city, county, state, and country)
13
Do you have a valid driver's license? NOTE: A Texas issued driver's license is required prior to start date.
- Valid driver's license
- State issued ID card
- None of the above
14
Please provide your current driver's license or state-issued ID number, state, and expiration date. If you do not have a driver's license please enter N/A.
15
Have you ever been employed with a law enforcement agency or correctional facility in any position?
- Currently Employed
- Previously Employed
- Never been employed at a law enforcement agency or correctional facility
16
If yes, please list of ALL Law Enforcement and/or Correctional facilities where you have worked (provide the name of the facility, address and years employed). Type "N/A" if not applicable
17
If you have worked at a law enforcement agency or correctional facility, have you ever been terminated, resigned in lieu of termination, or resigned while under investigation?
18
If yes, please explain (provide details): Type "N/A" if not applicable
19
Have you ever....? Please select all that apply.
- Been Convicted of a felony
- Been accused/charged with a felony that was dismissed, received deferred adjudication and/or probation
- Been convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, or the equivalent
- Been convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, or the equivalent within the last 10 years
- Been convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, or the equivalent over 10 years ago from today's date
- Been accused/charged with a Class B misdemeanor or equivalent that was dismissed, received deferred adjudication and/or probation
- Been dishonorably discharged from the United States armed forces
- None of the above
20
Please explain your answer below. Include the type of offense, date charged and date of discharge.Type "N/A" if not applicable
21
The Harris County Sheriff's Office has a strict policy on drug usage. If selected you will be required to take a pre-employment drug screening. All HCSO employees are also subject to random drug testing during the course of their employment. Please answer the following drug use related questions truthfully, the admittance of past drug use will not necessarily prevent you from future employment with the HCSO.
- I acknowledge the HCSO has a strict drug use policy and that I will be subjected to a drug screening at some point in the recruitment process.
22
Have you ever sold/distributed illegal substances? (e.g. marijuana, prescription drugs, crack, meth, etc.)
23
If you answered yes, please explain what kind of illegal substance you sold/distributed and the date you last did. If you answered "never", please type N/A.
24
Have you ever used any form of marijuana?
25
If yes, please explain and provide the date (day, month and year) of the last time you used marijuana. Type "N/A" if not applicable.
26
How many tim...