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If you’ve Googled “Crime Scene Investigator job description,” chances are you’ve seen the same thing over and over again.
Bullet points. Generic language. A lifeless list of duties and qualifications.
But here’s the problem: none of those posts actually help you attract a great crime scene investigator. They don’t speak to the unique mindset this role requires—the attention to detail, the emotional resilience, the ability to stay calm under pressure and think critically in high-stakes situations.
And if your job post doesn’t connect with the right candidates, you’ll either get flooded with low-effort applications—or worse, miss out on the people who are actually qualified.
That’s why this article is different.
Instead of giving you another templated job description, I’ll walk you through how to write a CSI job post that actually works. One that’s clear, specific, and human—so you can attract serious professionals who are built for this kind of work.
And if you haven’t already read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ , I highly recommend starting there. It breaks down why most job posts fail, how to write one that connects, and what to include to stand out in today’s hiring market.
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What the Crime Scene Investigator Role Actually Is
A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) is the person who shows up after the chaos.
They don’t chase suspects or interrogate witnesses. Instead, they’re the calm presence at a crime scene—collecting evidence, analyzing what’s been left behind, and helping law enforcement piece together what really happened.
Their job is equal parts science, observation, and precision. They photograph scenes, collect fingerprints, examine blood spatter, and document every detail that might help build a case. And once the evidence is processed, they may even testify in court to explain what they found and how.
It’s not like what you see on TV. There are no dramatic reveals or instant results. Real CSIs spend hours combing through the smallest details—because the smallest detail could be the key.
So if you’re hiring for this role, remember: you’re not just looking for someone with technical training. You’re looking for someone who’s methodical, emotionally steady, and deeply committed to the truth.vvvvv
Two Great Crime Scene Investigator Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Crime Scene Investigators
Job Title: Senior Crime Scene Investigator – Redwood County Sheriff’s Department
Location: Redwood, CO | Full-Time | $68,000–$82,000/year (based on experience)
Schedule: Rotating shifts, including weekends and on-call availability
🎥 Meet Your Team
Watch this short video from our Forensics Unit Supervisor, Elena Carter, to learn more about our mission, how we work, and what to expect in this role.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
Redwood County Sheriff’s Department serves a diverse, tight-knit community in rural Colorado. With a focus on integrity, accountability, and compassion, we’ve built a reputation for conducting thorough investigations and standing by the people we protect.
Our Forensics Unit is made up of deeply committed professionals who value both accuracy and empathy. We don’t rush scenes. We document them carefully, handle every detail with care, and support one another through the emotional weight of the work. If that resonates with you—you’ll fit right in.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead and participate in the documentation and processing of crime scenes
- Photograph, collect, and preserve physical evidence (e.g., fingerprints, biological samples)
- Conduct chemical and forensic examinations
- Maintain detailed logs and reports for chain-of-custody and court testimony
- Collaborate with detectives, prosecutors, and forensic lab specialists
- Testify in court as an expert witness
- Provide field guidance to junior CSIs and assist in training sessions
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of experience in crime scene investigation or forensic fieldwork
- Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, or similar
- Familiarity with bloodstain pattern analysis, trace evidence, and digital documentation
- Strong written and verbal communication
- High attention to detail in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
- Valid Colorado driver’s license
- IAI certification preferred
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This role isn’t just about science—it’s about service. You’ll play a critical role in helping victims and families get answers, and in ensuring justice is grounded in fact. At Redwood, your experience won’t be buried under bureaucracy—you’ll have real impact, real responsibility, and the backing of a forensics team that values thoroughness, trust, and long-term growth.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (eligible after 30 days)
- 12 paid holidays + 15 vacation days annually
- On-call stipend + overtime pay
- Annual training stipend and conference travel support
- Career advancement opportunities within the county forensics division
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not just résumés. Click below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
✅ Option 2:Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Candidates
Job Title: Junior Crime Scene Investigator – Redwood County Sheriff’s Department
Location: Redwood, CO | Full-Time | $48,000–$56,000/year
Schedule: Mon–Fri (8am–5pm) with rotating on-call duties after training
🎥 Get to Know the Role
Hear directly from our lead CSI trainer, Jordan Ramos, about how we mentor and support new investigators—from classroom to field.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
At Redwood County Sheriff’s Department, we don’t just investigate crimes—we uphold the dignity of the people affected by them. We serve a population of 70,000 across rural towns and open landscapes, and our investigative team is known for meticulous, unbiased work.
We believe in building talent. That’s why we invest in early-career professionals who show potential, discipline, and a deep interest in the forensics field. If you’re curious, reliable, and ready to grow—we’ll show you the ropes.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Assist senior investigators with evidence collection and scene documentation
- Photograph scenes, label materials, and maintain detailed field notes
- Attend structured training in forensic procedures, safety, and courtroom presentation
- Learn to perform basic forensic testing under supervision
- Rotate into live crime scenes once foundational skills are certified
- Build technical skills in photography, fingerprinting, and lab coordination
What We’re Looking For
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field (Criminal Justice, Biology, Psychology)
- No prior CSI experience required—we’ll train the right person
- Eagerness to learn and follow strict forensic protocols
- Emotionally grounded with the ability to handle sensitive environments
- Team-oriented, organized, and observant
- Valid driver’s license (CO preferred) and ability to work flexible hours
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t just an entry point—it’s a launchpad. You’ll receive hands-on training from seasoned CSIs, join a supportive unit that values precision and empathy, and get exposure to real-world forensic cases from day one. If you’ve ever dreamed of doing meaningful work in criminal investigations, this is where it starts.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Paid training and certification pathway
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (starts after 30 days)
- Flexible paid time off (up to 20 days per year)
- Ongoing mentorship with senior investigators
- Guaranteed promotion track after one year, based on performance
- Annual wellness stipend and access to mental health resources
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make sure great people don’t go unnoticed. Apply now using the link below and complete the short, skill-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Crime Scene Investigator Job Posts Work
1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific
Instead of vague labels like “CSI” or “Forensics Tech”, both job posts clearly define the role level, department, and location:
“Senior Crime Scene Investigator – Redwood County Sheriff’s Department”
“Junior Crime Scene Investigator – Redwood County Sheriff’s Department”
This instantly signals who the job is for, where it is, and the level of experience required—making it easier for qualified candidates to self-identify.
2. The Video Section Adds Trust and Personality
Embedding a Loom or YouTube video from a real team member gives your job post a human touch—and that matters. It:
- Makes your department more approachable
- Builds trust before the first interview
- Helps candidates “see” themselves working there
3. The “Who We Are” Section Feels Human and Grounded
Instead of generic corporate boilerplate, these descriptions give a glimpse into the department’s values, team culture, and mission. For example:
“We don’t rush scenes. We document them carefully, handle every detail with care, and support one another through the emotional weight of the work.”
This builds emotional connection and attracts candidates who align with the culture—not just the tasks.
4. Responsibilities Are Practical and Purpose-Driven
Rather than dry bullet points, each task is explained with intent and context:
“Assist senior investigators with evidence collection and scene documentation”
“Maintain detailed logs and reports for chain-of-custody and court testimony”
This makes the work feel meaningful and paints a clear picture of day-to-day expectations.
5. The Role Requirements Are Realistic and Encouraging
Both job posts include must-haves and “nice to haves” to signal flexibility. Especially in the junior role, you clarify that:
“No prior CSI experience required—we’ll train the right person”
This widens your talent pool and encourages applications from capable but overlooked candidates.
6. You Clearly Separate Perks vs. Role Fit
Instead of dumping all selling points in one section, you:
- Use a “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” section to pitch the mission and emotional value
- Follow it with a “Perks and Benefits” section listing concrete compensation and support
This balances logic (what’s in it for me?) and emotion (why should I care?).
7. The Application Process Is Respectful and Modern
Using WorkScreen not only makes your hiring process more efficient—it signals fairness and transparency to the applicant:
“We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not just résumés.”
This elevates your employer brand and filters out low-effort applicants from the start.
8. The Tone Is Clear, Confident, and Human
Every section avoids buzzwords and corporate fluff. Instead, you write like someone who genuinely wants the right person to join their team:
“If that resonates with you—you’ll fit right in.”
“This isn’t just an entry point—it’s a launchpad.”
This tone makes even serious roles like CSI feel welcoming without losing professionalism.
Example of a Bad Crime Scene Investigator Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Crime Scene Technician
Company: County Law Enforcement Agency
Location: TBD
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary:
The selected candidate will be responsible for processing crime scenes and collecting evidence as needed. Must be available for rotating shifts.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Respond to crime scenes as assigned
- Take photographs and document evidence
- Collect physical evidence and maintain chain of custody
- Submit reports to appropriate departments
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related field
- 2+ years of experience preferred
- Good communication skills
- Must be able to lift 25 pounds
How to Apply:
Send your résumé and cover letter to hiring@countyjobs.gov. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🧯 Why This Job Post Falls Short
1. The Job Title Is Vague and Generic
“Crime Scene Technician” doesn’t convey level, urgency, or context.
It’s unclear if this is entry-level, senior, or specialized. Candidates looking for meaningful forensic careers might skip it entirely.
2. No Personalization or Culture
“County Law Enforcement Agency” tells the applicant nothing about where they’d work or what kind of team they’d be joining.
There’s no mention of the department’s mission, values, team dynamics, or approach to forensic work—just cold, impersonal language.
3. No Salary or Benefits Information
In today’s hiring environment, withholding salary signals a lack of transparency.
Candidates want to know what to expect—and if you’re not upfront, they’re more likely to skip your listing.
4. The Responsibilities Are Vague and Uninspired
“Take photographs and document evidence.”
“Submit reports to appropriate departments.”
These are so broad they could apply to dozens of jobs. There’s no depth, no insight into real challenges, and no sense of purpose.
5. The Requirements List Is Bare Minimum and Uninviting
Saying “must be able to lift 25 pounds” without context feels random and disengaging.
And stating “good communication skills” as a requirement adds no real value—everyone claims that.
6. The Application Process Feels Cold and Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This line instantly puts distance between you and the candidate. It tells them their time isn’t valued and doesn’t set clear expectations. You miss the chance to build trust—or even explain the next step.
7. Zero Personality in the CTA
The post ends abruptly with an email and no motivation. There’s no encouragement, no sense of mission, no reason to apply beyond “we’re hiring.”
Bottom Line:
This job post might technically “work”—but only to fill space, not to attract top talent. It doesn’t connect, doesn’t inspire, and fails to stand out. In fact, it risks attracting the wrong candidates—those who are applying blindly rather than those who care about the work.
Bonus Tips to Make Your CSI Job Post Stand Out
✅ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
This small line builds trust—especially in public safety roles where professionalism and integrity are non-negotiable. It also shows that you care about the applicant’s well-being from the start.
📌 Example wording:
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants seriously. We will never request payment, banking details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”
✅ 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Even mission-driven professionals want to know they’ll be supported when they need to step back. Burnout is real—especially in forensic roles. Be upfront about rest and recovery.
📌 Example wording:
“Enjoy up to 20 days of flexible time off each year—so you can recharge and come back focused.”
✅ 3. Highlight Growth & Training Opportunities
Top candidates—especially those entering public safety—value structured development. Whether it’s certifications, mentorship, or internal promotion tracks, make sure you highlight how the role grows with the person.
📌 Example wording:
“You’ll receive hands-on training, regular field feedback, and access to funded certification courses to sharpen your forensic skills.”
✅ 4. Embed a Loom or YouTube Video From a Real Person
We’ve included this in your templates already, but it’s worth repeating: video is one of the easiest ways to differentiate your post. It lets candidates:
- Hear from their future manager
- Understand the work environment
- Build trust before applying
Even a 60-second video can dramatically increase engagement and application quality.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ 5. Use a Respectful, Human Call to Action
Instead of cold phrases like “submit your résumé,” use CTAs that treat the candidate as a person—not a number.
📌 Better CTA Example:
“We use WorkScreen to make sure great people don’t go unnoticed. Click below to show us what you can do—we’re excited to learn more about you.”
✅ 6. Acknowledge the Emotional Weight of the Role
Crime scene investigation isn’t just technical—it’s emotionally intense. Applicants respect honesty and will appreciate a team that recognizes the mental side of the work.
📌 Example wording:
“We know this work can be heavy. That’s why our team supports each other through regular debriefs, mental wellness resources, and a culture of care.”
Should You Use AI to Write a CSI Job Description?
Lately, it seems like every hiring tool wants to offer a one-click AI job description feature.
But if you’ve ever used one of those tools—whether it’s built into an ATS or you tried prompting ChatGPT from scratch—you’ve probably seen the problem firsthand:
The results are… generic.
And when your post feels like it could have been written for any company, it attracts any kind of applicant—which is exactly what you don’t want in a sensitive, high-stakes role like crime scene investigation.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Use AI Alone
Blindly using AI to generate a job post—without giving it the right context—can hurt your hiring efforts in three major ways:
- It makes your post blend in.
Generic job descriptions don’t stand out. They don’t reflect your culture, mission, or the real expectations of the role. - It attracts the wrong applicants.
A vague post might bring in a flood of applications—but most of them will be low-effort or misaligned with the actual role. - It reflects poorly on your department.
Your job post is often the first impression of your law enforcement agency. You want it to feel thoughtful, serious, and aligned with your mission—not like it was generated in 10 seconds.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI (If You Do)
AI can still be a helpful tool—if you use it with the right inputs.
Don’t ask it to “write a job post for a Crime Scene Investigator.”
Instead, come prepared with key details that only you know:
📋 Provide These Inputs:
- What your department does differently (values, location, mission)
- What level of CSI you’re hiring (entry-level, experienced, specialist?)
- What a day on the job really looks like
- What qualities make someone thrive in your environment
- What benefits and support systems you offer
- What your hiring process looks like (especially if using WorkScreen)
💬 Then Prompt Like This:
“Help me write a job post for our team at Redwood County Sheriff’s Department.
We’re hiring a [Crime Scene Investigator] to help with [documenting and analyzing major crime scenes in the Redwood area].
Our team culture is [collaborative, focused, trauma-informed].
We’re looking for candidates who are [emotionally steady, methodical, great at documentation].
We offer [training opportunities, paid time off, health coverage, and promotion tracks].
Our hiring process uses WorkScreen, so applicants complete a skill-based evaluation before moving forward.”
Then paste in a few of your bullet points or notes—and ask AI to help you polish the tone or organize the structure.
✏️ Remember: AI is a tool, not a shortcut.
Use it to enhance your message—not to replace your voice.
The best job posts don’t sound like a machine wrote them.
They sound like a real person, on a real team, looking for a real teammate.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you need to move fast.
If you’ve already gone through this guide, you understand what a strong job post looks like. But maybe you just need a solid starting point to copy, paste, and customize.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First CSI Job Description Template
Job Title: Crime Scene Investigator – [Company Name]
Location: [Location] | Full-Time | [Insert Salary Range]
Schedule: [Insert Work Schedule Details]
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Watch this quick video from [Hiring Manager’s Name], our [Title], to get a feel for who we are and how we work.
👉 [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we’re not just documenting evidence—we’re pursuing truth, helping victims, and contributing to real justice.
Our crime scene investigation team is built on thoroughness, care, and a shared commitment to doing things right. We work in high-pressure environments but support one another every step of the way. If you’re steady, observant, and mission-driven, you’ll feel right at home here.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Document and process crime scenes with extreme attention to detail
- Photograph and collect physical evidence
- Maintain comprehensive records for chain of custody and legal proceedings
- Collaborate with law enforcement, lab specialists, and legal teams
- Provide court testimony as needed
- Follow all safety and legal protocols related to evidence handling
What We’re Looking For
- years of experience in crime scene investigation OR willingness to train
- Degree in [Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, or related field]
- Calm under pressure and emotionally resilient
- Meticulous with documentation and procedures
- Valid driver’s license
- [IAI Certification preferred but not required]
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is more than a job—it’s a chance to serve the truth and make a meaningful impact. You’ll have ownership, mentorship, and a direct line to cases that matter. If you’re the kind of person who thrives on precision and cares deeply about doing right by others, this is where your work will truly count.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- [Insert Paid Time Off Policy]
- [Insert Health/Dental/Vision Insurance Details]
- [Insert On-Call or Overtime Compensation, if applicable]
- [Insert Professional Development Support or Certification Stipend]
- [Insert Mental Wellness or Counseling Benefits]
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to ensure a fair and skills-based process. Click the link below to complete a quick evaluation and submit your application:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
🧱 Option 2: Structured CSI Job Description Template
Job Title: Crime Scene Investigator
Company Name: [Company Name]
Location: [Location]
Salary Range: [Insert Salary Range]
Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] | [Insert Shift Details]
🎥 Hear From Our Team
Take a quick look behind the scenes with [Team Leader’s Name] as they walk through what it’s like to join the CSI unit at [Company Name].
👉 [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is dedicated to conducting thorough, evidence-based investigations that help deliver justice in our community. We work collaboratively across departments, and we’re looking for someone who shares our attention to detail and sense of purpose.
Job Brief
We’re hiring a Crime Scene Investigator to assist in processing active crime scenes, preserving evidence, and coordinating with law enforcement teams. You’ll play a critical role in supporting criminal investigations from fieldwork to courtroom.
Key Responsibilities
- Respond to crime scenes and document all findings accurately
- Photograph, collect, and preserve physical evidence
- Maintain proper chain-of-custody protocols
- Collaborate with lab teams and officers
- Assist in preparing evidence and testifying in court as needed
- Adhere to department protocols and legal standards
Required Qualifications
- [Associate or Bachelor’s degree] in Criminal Justice, Biology, or related field
- [1–3+ years] experience in forensic or field investigation (or willingness to train)
- Excellent attention to detail and strong communication skills
- Ability to manage emotionally intense environments
- Valid driver’s license
- [Insert relevant certifications or “preferred” status as needed]
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- [Insert Competitive Salary/Oversight Pay]
- [Insert Paid Leave, Holidays, and PTO Policy]
- [Insert Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Package]
- [Insert Ongoing Training and Development Support]
- [Insert Career Advancement Opportunities]
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated on your skills, not just your résumé.
👉 Click here to complete your quick evaluation and start your application:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
What Happens After You Write a Great Job Post?
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase.
Writing a great job description is just the first step.
Now you need to evaluate applicants—fairly, efficiently, and fast.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how WorkScreen helps you hire smarter:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort or AI-generated applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Why It Matters
In roles like Crime Scene Investigation, precision and judgment matter more than polished résumés.
You need people who can actually do the work—not just talk about it.
With WorkScreen, you’ll stop guessing, stop wasting hours on interviews that go nowhere, and start hiring based on what matters: skill, potential, and real-world performance.
🔗 Ready to see how it works?
Check out WorkScreen today: [Insert Call-to-Action Button or Link]
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Crime Scene Investigator
A mail handler is responsible for sorting, processing, and moving mail in postal facilities. It’s a logistics and operations role, often involving repetitive tasks in a structured environment.
A Crime Scene Investigator, on the other hand, works in law enforcement and forensic science. They collect, document, and analyze physical evidence at crime scenes to assist with criminal investigations. The role requires analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to handle emotionally challenging situations.
In short: one ensures the safe delivery of mail; the other ensures the preservation of justice through physical evidence.
Beyond technical training, strong Crime Scene Investigators often share these key traits:
- Attention to detail: They must spot even the smallest clues at a scene.
- Emotional resilience: The work can be intense, especially in violent or traumatic cases.
- Clear communication: CSIs must document findings thoroughly and sometimes testify in court.
- Patience and focus: Processing a scene can take hours—there are no shortcuts.
Objectivity: They must interpret facts without bias or emotional influence.
As of recent U.S. national averages, a mail processor earns between $37,000 and $52,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and whether they work for government agencies like USPS or private-sector logistics companies.
(Note: This FAQ is useful for contrast but not directly connected to CSI hiring. Feel free to remove if the focus needs to stay tighter.)
A Crime Scene Investigator works on-site, collecting and documenting physical evidence directly from crime scenes.
A Forensic Scientist typically works in a laboratory, analyzing the collected evidence (like DNA, fingerprints, or toxicology samples). Some professionals do both, but the roles are distinct—one is field-based, the other lab-based.
