Trace Evidence Technician Onboarding Checklist

Trace Evidence Technician Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Trace Evidence Technician starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Forensics onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Trace Evidence Technician, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Trace Evidence Technician onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Trace Evidence Technician Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new Trace Evidence Technician attends a comprehensive orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and safety protocols. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated onboarding specialist.

2. Introduction to the Forensics Department: The new technician is introduced to their immediate team members, supervisors, and other colleagues within the Forensics Department. This task is usually performed by the department manager or a designated team leader.

3. Equipment and Tools Training: The technician receives training on the proper use and maintenance of various equipment and tools used in trace evidence analysis, such as microscopes, spectrometers, and collection kits. This task is typically performed by a senior Trace Evidence Technician or a designated trainer within the department.

4. Laboratory Safety Training: The new technician undergoes comprehensive safety training, including protocols for handling hazardous materials, proper disposal procedures, and emergency response protocols. This task is usually performed by the department’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer.

5. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): The technician is provided with a detailed overview of the department’s standard operating procedures, including protocols for evidence collection, preservation, analysis, and reporting. This task is typically performed by a senior Trace Evidence Technician or a designated SOP coordinator.

6. Case Management System Training: The technician receives training on the company’s case management system, including how to log evidence, update case statuses, and generate reports. This task is usually performed by the department’s case management system administrator or a designated trainer.

7. Evidence Collection Techniques: The new technician undergoes training on various evidence collection techniques, such as fingerprint lifting, DNA swabbing, fiber collection, and gunshot residue analysis. This task is typically performed by a senior Trace Evidence Technician or a designated trainer within the department.

8. Quality Control and Assurance: The technician is introduced to the department’s quality control and assurance processes, including proficiency testing, calibration, and documentation requirements. This task is usually performed by the department’s quality control officer or a designated trainer.

9. Chain of Custody Procedures: The technician is trained on the proper documentation and maintenance of the chain of custody for evidence, ensuring its integrity and admissibility in court. This task is typically performed by a senior Trace Evidence Technician or a designated trainer within the department.

10. Collaboration and Communication: The new technician is encouraged to participate in team meetings, departmental collaborations, and cross-training opportunities to foster effective communication and teamwork within the Forensics Department. This task is usually facilitated by the department manager or a designated team leader.

11. Continuing Education and Professional Development: The technician is informed about the company’s policies and opportunities for continuing education, professional development, and attending relevant conferences or workshops. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated training coordinator.

12. Performance Evaluation and Feedback: The technician is informed about the company’s performance evaluation process, including periodic reviews, feedback sessions, and opportunities for growth and advancement. This task is typically performed by the department manager or a designated supervisor.

13. Familiarization with Laboratory Protocols: The new technician is provided with a detailed overview of the laboratory protocols, including cleanliness standards, equipment maintenance, and record-keeping requirements. This task is typically performed by a senior Trace Evidence Technician or a designated trainer within the department.

14. Understanding Legal and Ethical Considerations: The technician is educated on the legal and ethical considerations specific to the field of forensics, including privacy laws, evidence handling regulations, and professional codes of conduct. This task is typically performed by the department’s legal counsel or a designated ethics officer.

15. Shadowing and Mentoring: The new technician is paired with an experienced Trace Evidence Technician for a period of shadowing and mentoring, allowing them to observe and learn from their more experienced colleague. This task is typically facilitated by the department manager or a designated mentorship coordinator

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Trace Evidence Technician checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Trace Evidence Technician up to speed and working well in your Forensics team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.