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Job Description
Description
The Sheriff’s Office is currently accepting applications for the position of Evidence Technician within our Forensic Services Unit.
The Forensic Services Unit performs a wide variety of tasks on a twenty-four-hour basis and is equipped to handle all types of crime scene processing. The unit's main responsibility is the custody of current evidence, i.e. guns, drugs, clothing or any other items that may have evidentiary value.
This is a full-time non-exempt position located at the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement Center, 3691 Leeds Ave, North Charleston, SC.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2026
Please attach your resume upon completing your online application. To learn more about the Forensic Services Unit, visit Charleston County Sheriff's Office: Criminal Investigations Division .
Duties and Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:- Receiving and maintaining secure custody of evidence and property, ensuring property received matches all associated records, including a proper chain of custody.
- Assists Deputies and other officials, as necessary, to ensure proper and timely completion of paperwork or digital records pertaining to evidence processing and storage.
- Organizes and catalogs evidence and property, prepares and maintains related computer records.
- Completes data entry and research tasks by utilizing multiple computer systems and sites to track receipts, inventory, dispositions, and/or release information relative to evidence and other properties.
- Prepares, submits and transports evidence for laboratory analysis and prepares all associated paperwork in compliance with the laboratories policies and procedures.
- Conducts routine pick-ups and deliveries of laboratory evidence at various government entities and inter-agency offices, and evidence returns to the Sheriff’s Office.
- Makes copies, uploads, downloads and creates retention times for agencies requested digital in-car video system and body worn cameras.
- Disseminates copies of evidence for Rule 5 requests and subpoenas received by the legal office, while preserving the chain of custody to ensure proper dissemination and disposition.
- Signs out evidence to Department personnel, attorneys, court personnel, federal agencies, etc. as appropriate, and ensures proper and timely return.
- Performs a yearly evidence audit and destruction. Destroys and disposes of evidence by obtaining officer authorization, reviewing and tracking dispositions for disposal or release.
- Receives and executes court orders for gun forfeitures and evidence destruction.
- Assists in the proper storage of and preparation for the disposal and destruction of controlled substances, biohazard materials, weapons, and other unknown materials and substances.
- Conducts forensic examination, processing, and collecting of evidence to include photographing, print collection, latent print comparisons, DNA collection, etc.
- Provides written reports of all findings and proper timely dissemination of results.
- Assembles and organizes evidence for deputies, crime scene personnel, or the Solicitor’s Office for presentation in court; may be requested to testify in court.
- Answers telephones and provides information pertaining to evidence and property available for release.
- Assists with presentations at schools and office tours for new employees, interns, students, etc.
- Runs NCIC e-Agent mental health and background checks prior to returning firearms to owner and receiving a completed signed copy of the agency required Firearms Release Form.
- Evidence Technicians may be designated to report to work during hazardous weather or emergency conditions and/or requested to assist Investigators on scenes.
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:- US Citizen
- High school diploma (or GED)
- Valid South Carolina driver's license or the ability to obtain one.
- Honorably discharged from the military (if applicable).
- Have no pending cases or criminal felony convictions (misdemeanors may require expungement).
- No THC or Marijuana use within 365 days; some drugs are automatic disqualifiers.
- No student loans in default status.
- Must pass background checks and successfully complete the full application process which includes the Nelson Denny reading and comprehension test, panel interview, polygraph exam, psychological exam, and pre-employment physical.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
What You’ll Bring:- Proficiency in PC applications using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- National Crime Information Center (NCIC) certification or the ability to gain certification within six months of employment.
- An International Association for Property and Evidence, Inc. (IAPE) certification or the ability to gain certification within 1 year of employment.
- Ability to use EIS or complete EIS training.
- Substantial oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and handle confidential information with discretion.
- Ability to learn applicable federal, state, and local criminal and civil laws, codes and regulations.
- Familiarity with law enforcement, court systems, and criminal procedures related to the processing, retention, and disposal of evidence.
- Ability to learn safety and security methods and practices involved in the handling and storage of firearms, narcotics, money and bio-hazardous materials.
Charleston County offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including but not limited to:- Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
- Optional Life and Disability Insurance
- Optional Medical and Dependent Care Spending Accounts
- Annual and Sick Leave
- Fourteen (14) recognized Holidays
- South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS) State Retirement Plan
- Police Officers Retirement System (PORS - as applicable)
- Optional Deferred Compensation Program
- Longevity and Merit Pay Increases
- Leadership, Professional and Skill Development Training
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Well-being Program
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ABOUT THE COMPANY
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Charleston County Government
Show moreCharleston County Government has over 2500 employees working in more than 40 different departments across the County. Employees embody excellent customer service, trust, and commitment to the community. Our diverse team works hard to provide effective government services to the citizens. Excellent benefits and rewarding work make Charleston County a premier employer of choice. We look forward to you joining us.
Located in the beautiful and historical Lowcountry of South Carolina. Charleston County's rich blend of culture, economic activity, environmental beauty, and historic tapestry makes it one of the most distinguished counties in the nation. A recognized leader, Charleston County is a proud community that strives to protect both its historic treasures and its environment, while still keeping an eye toward future development.
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