ARSON INVESTIGATOR (2328)

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City of San José

ARSON INVESTIGATOR (2328)

CLASS PURPOSE

Under general supervision, investigates fires to determine incendiary origin; develops and follows-up on criminal prosecution of felony suspects. Performs related work as required.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESULTS (Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties which may be performed.)

Responds to major fires and fires of suspicious or unknown origin to investigate fire cause; investigates fires involving death or serious injury.
Takes charge of the fire scene for investigative purposes; examines fire patterns and depth of
burning/charring to determine area of origin and sources of ignition.
Questions suspects and interviews witnesses; places suspects under arrest for probable cause; collects and preserves evidence; books suspects and processes evidence.
Prepares related reports and files complaints with the District Attorney.
Testifies as a qualified expert witness in court on felony and subrogation cases relating to fire cause.
Prepares information for court presentations to establish probable cause and/or proof of guilt. Serves
subpoenas, warrants and arrest warrants.
Coordinates activities with Probation and Police Officers, Prosecuting Attorneys, and other law enforcement officials.
Conducts specialized investigations for the Department.
Participates in surveillance operations.
Prepares reports and statistics supporting investigations and activities.
Is subject to emergency call back while off duty.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is a full-time specialized classification within the uniformed Fire series. Incumbents receive direction from a Fire Department officer charged with responsibility for the Arson Unit. The class differs from other uniformed classes in its responsibility for performing Peace Officer functions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Knowledges, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of fire suppression, prevention, building construction, fire codes and the chemistry of fires.
Knowledge of the methods and procedures for conducting criminal investigations.
Knowledge of laws of evidence and evidence codes.
Knowledge of penal codes relating to arrest, search and seizure.
Ability to effectively interview witnesses/suspects and conduct criminal background investigations.
Ability to write clear, concise reports and prepare information for court presentation.
Ability to qualify in the use of firearms.

Minimum Knowledges, Skills and Abilities

Ability to work cooperatively and effectively within the framework of a uniformed fire department.
Ability to maintain good public relations during the performance of duties.
Ability to work effectively with District Attorney, Police and Probationary Officers in preparing, prosecuting and resolving criminal complaints.
Ability to qualify as an expert witness.
Ability to utilize photographic equipment.

Training and Experience

Current employment with the San Jose Fire Department in a sworn position and any combination of training and experience equivalent to completion of high school and three (3) years of experience as a Firefighter, or higher sworn class, with the City of San Jose plus one (1) year of criminal investigative experience, or successful completion of Fire Investigation I and II, California Fire Service Training Program or its equivalent, or possession of a certificate verifying completion of minimum standards of training for peace officers as prescribed by Section 832 of the California Penal Code, or one (1) year of experience in a class equivalent to a Fire Prevention Inspector with the City of San Jose.

Licenses and Certificates

Valid California driver's license. Deputization as a Peace Officer will be required within a prescribed time after appointment.

A01-2328.SPC