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Forensics Blog

Investigate it: Forensics at BCIT

Job Opportunity- BCIT’s Forensic Science & Technology Department – Technician III

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BCIT’s Forensic Science & Technology program invites applications for a regular, full-time Technician III position. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting in the activities of the accredited forensic DNA laboratory, assisting in the departmental research activities, preparation of forensic laboratory sessions and mock crime scene scenarios running within the academic programs, assisting the program coordinators in operational matters of the department, quality assurance, repair and maintenance of laboratory equipment, and other related duties.

WHAT THIS POSITION HAS TO OFFER:

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor of Science in Biological Science or Molecular Biology and/or a degree in forensic science is desirable.
  • Four years of related work experience in a laboratory setting, preferably in the area of forensic biology. Experience working in an accredited laboratory setting an asset.
  • Computing skills (Microsoft Office, databasing, etc.) an asset.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently.

 

Closing Date:  09-29-2017

See the full job posting and how to apply here.

Job Opportunities

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Judicial Assistant

Courts Administration Service
Calgary (Alberta), Edmonton (Alberta), Vancouver (British Columbia), Winnipeg (Manitoba), Toronto (Ontario), Montréal Island (Québec)
AS-03
$61,558 to $66,324

For further information on the organization, please visit Courts Administration Service

Closing date: 13 September 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time

Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.

Apply online

Duties

You will be required to provide administrative and office management services in support of members of the judiciary of the Federal Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, the Court Martial Appeal Court or the Tax Court of Canada. Tasks include (but are not limited to):

• Responding or anticipating the needs of the judge (or prothonotary) in the preparation and review of decisions, directions, reasons, judgments and orders.

For more information, see the full job posting here: https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1075841

Physical Surveillant Analyst

Reference Number:  15-968-06-108

Closing Date:  2017-09-13

Job Summary

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) is seeking applications for a career in surveillance. The Physical Surveillant Analyst position provides direct operational and technical support to field surveillance teams. Candidates must possess a high level of initiative, motivation and discretion, with the ability to work a flexible schedule. Candidates should enjoy multi-tasking, report writing and be able to adapt quickly to a variety of situations.

Mandatory Criteria

  • Applicants must be a Canadian citizen eligible for a Top Secret security clearance.
  • Applicants must possess, at a minimum, a completed College Diploma from an accredited learning institution recognized in Canada, plus (3) three years of experience.

For more information, see the full job posting here:  https://csiscareers.ca/en/jobs/physical-surveillant-analyst

Forensic Entomology Field Day with Dr. Gail Anderson: Death and Flies

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Instructor: Gail Anderson

Format: 1 Day hands-on field day in Maple Ridge, BC

Date: July 25th

Workshop Times: 09:30 – 17:30

Cost: $128.00 (CRN 65108)

Description:

This 1 day hands-on workshop will introduce investigators to the field of forensic entomology and how this discipline may assist you in your investigations.  World renowned forensic entomologist Gail Anderson will lead this session with a half day lecture on the application of forensic entomology for investigative purposes followed by a half day hands-on field exercise studying insects at a mock scene using carrion.  The lecture component will provide investigators with some practical knowledge on how insects may assist different aspects of an investigation; including the estimation of the elapsed time since death, whether a body has been disturbed or moved after death, or whether drugs where used prior to death. The hands-on practical session will give the participants experience with a ‘real’ situation in which insects have naturally colonized carcasses and allow them to perform full insect collections as they would at a real crime scene.

The workshop will provide the investigator with an overall understanding of entomology and its applications to criminal or sudden death investigations, collecting insect evidence at a crime scene in a manner defensible in court, the value of insect evidence, and the results which can be expected from an entomologist.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this workshop, the student will be able to:

  • Describe the application of entomology to criminal investigations
  • Demonstrate proper handling, collection and preservation of insect evidence at crime scenes
  • Identify insect groups (especially carrion groups) and insect rearing cycles
  • Explain scientific principles behind the use of insects in homicide investigations

Who should take this workshop: Any individual conducting investigations into events or circumstances that have led to a sudden death or homicide involving an individual or animal.

For more information, see the registration page here or contact Julia at jdreyer@bcit.ca.

 

Forensic Video Analyst Position

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Royal Canadian Mounted Police – LMD IFIS – E Division
Surrey (British Columbia)
$59,227 to $67,340

Closing date: 17 July 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time

Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.

Apply online

Important messages

PLEASE NOTE, ONLY ON-LINE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Positions to be filled: 1

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Education:
•Successful completion of a diploma program in a related field (i.e. video production, broadcast television, film, photography) supplemented by technical courses specific to the field of forensic video analysis OR
•Successful completion of the LEVA Forensic Video Analysis Certification Program with active certification as a Certified Forensic Video Analyst (CFVA)

Degree equivalency

Experience:
1.Experience in processing forensic video evidence at an analytical or technical level
2.Experience preparing general correspondence and reports
3.Experience in operating, researching and recommending multimedia hardware or software
4.Experience providing subject matter expertise and instruction

Knowledge:
1.Knowledge of procedures and practices for operational records management
2.Knowledge of organizational policies and procedures in relation to exhibit handling, specifically digital evidence.
3.Knowledge of forensic terminology

The following will be applied / assessed at a later date (essential for the job)

English essential

Information on language requirements

Abilities & Skills:
1.Ability to prioritize and multi-task a workload
2.Ability to communicate effectively orally
3.Ability to communicate effectively in writing

Personal Suitability:
1.Effective interpersonal relationships
2.Thoroughness
3.Initiative
4.Judgement
5.Attention to detail

The following may be applied / assessed at a later date (may be needed for the job)

Experience:
1.Experience providing subject matter expertise and instruction in forensic video analysis and video evidence
2.Experience in developing new processes in forensic video analysis and the use of video evidence

Willingness and ability to work overtime or shift work

Conditions of employment

Top Secret security clearance

Willingness and ability to travel.
Willingness to testify in a court of law.
Willingness and ability to view imagery of a sensitive, graphic and disturbing nature while carrying out duties, sometimes for prolonged periods of time.

Contact information

Carlea Wolf – Carlea.Wolf@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

See the full job posting here:  https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1056135

 

 

Forensic Entomology Field Day with Dr. Gail Anderson: Death and Flies

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Description:

This 1 day hands-on workshop will introduce investigators to the field of forensic entomology and how this discipline may assist you in your investigations.  World renowned forensic entomologist Gail Anderson will lead this session with a half day lecture on the application of forensic entomology for investigative purposes followed by a half day hands-on field exercise studying insects at a mock scene using carrion.  The lecture component will provide investigators with some practical knowledge on how insects may assist different aspects of an investigation; including the estimation of the elapsed time since death, whether a body has been disturbed or moved after death, or whether drugs where used prior to death. The hands-on practical session will give the participants experience with a ‘real’ situation in which insects have naturally colonized carcasses and allow them to perform full insect collections as they would at a real crime scene.

The workshop will provide the investigator with an overall understanding of entomology and its applications to criminal or sudden death investigations, collecting insect evidence at a crime scene in a manner defensible in court, the value of insect evidence, and the results which can be expected from an entomologist.

Instructor: Gail Anderson

Format: 1 Day hands-on field day in Maple Ridge, BC

Date: July 25th

Workshop Times: 09:30 – 17:30

Cost: $128.00

 

Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this workshop, the student will be able to:

  • Describe the application of entomology to criminal investigations
  • Demonstrate proper handling, collection and preservation of insect evidence at crime scenes
  • Identify insect groups (especially carrion groups) and insect rearing cycles
  • Explain scientific principles behind the use of insects in homicide investigations

Who should take this workshop: Any individual conducting investigations into events or circumstances that have led to a sudden death or homicide involving an individual or animal.

For more information, please email Julia Dreyer at jdreyer@bcit.ca

Forensic Technology Analyst – Various Locations

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  1. Royal Canadian Mounted Police – National Forensic Laboratory Services

    Ottawa (Ontario)

    $55,840 to $67,936

For further information on the organization, please visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Closing date: 16 June 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time

Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.

Apply online

  1. Royal Canadian Mounted Police – National Forensic Laboratory Services

    Vancouver (British Columbia)

    $55,840 to $67,936

For further information on the organization, please visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Closing date: 16 June 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time

Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.

Apply online

  1. Royal Canadian Mounted Police – National Forensic Laboratory Services

    Edmonton (Alberta)

    $55,840 to $67,936

For further information on the organization, please visit Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Closing date: 16 June 2017 – 23:59, Pacific Time

Who can apply: Persons residing in Canada and Canadian citizens residing abroad.

Apply online

 

Duties

Job Description:
The position is responsible for:
1. conducting the initial examination of crime scene exhibits, samples and materials; for the recovery of trace evidence using specialized and standardized analysis techniques;
2. inputting data for tracking purposes; performing quality assurance tasks in accordance with established guidelines such as in the maintenance, upgrading and calibration of scientific equipment used to perform forensic analysis;
3. assisting in the design, research and development or evaluation of analytical methods or systems;
4. documenting findings in case notes for forensic specialists to prepare analytical reports; provision of expert advice on the selection and handling of crime scene evidence;
5. testifying in court;
6. assisting in the education of both internal and external clients including RCMP members and members of the legal, medical, forensic and law enforcement communities.

Information you must provide

Your résumé.

You must meet all essential qualifications in order to be appointed to the position. Other qualifications may be a deciding factor in choosing the person to be appointed. Some essential and other qualifications will be assessed through your application. It is your responsibility to provide appropriate examples that illustrate how you meet each qualification. Failing to do so could result in your application being rejected.

In order to be considered, your application must clearly explain how you meet the following (essential qualifications)

Education/Training:
A minimum of a 2 year college diploma in biological sciences from a certified Canadian institute.
* Transcript will be assessed to clarify the courses taken during the degree/diploma.

1. Successful completion of courses such as biochemistry, biology, cell biology, genetics, microbiology, molecular biology, or other subjects which provide a basic understanding of the foundation of forensic DNA analysis.
* Transcript will be assessed to clarify the courses taken during the degree/diploma.

2. Candidates will be required successfully complete the understudy training program for Evidence Recovery

Degree equivalency

Knowledge:
1. Working knowledge of general analytical techniques and/or laboratory techniques including processing of DNA (preference given to human DNA).

Special Requirements/Abilities:
1. Demonstrated effective communication skills, both oral and written.
2. Demonstrated effective interpersonal skills.
3. Demonstrated effective trouble shooting and problem solving skills.
4. Demonstrated effective team work.

 

 

For more information, see the full job postings at the links below:

https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1049028&toggleLanguage=en

https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1049261&toggleLanguage=en

https://emploisfp-psjobs.cfp-psc.gc.ca/psrs-srfp/applicant/page1800?poster=1049265&toggleLanguage=en

Internet & Social Media Investigative Techniques Workshop

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BCIT Forensics is offering a workshop in internet and social media investigative techniques.

Date:  June 19 – 21, 2017 (Monday – Wednesday)

Time:  0900 to 1630

Fee:  $708.90 (CRN 64272)

Location:  BCIT Downtown Vancouver Campus (555 Seymour St.)

Registration:  Contact Julia Dreyer at jdreyer@bcit.ca

This 3 day, hands-on workshop will provide attendees with the latest techniques used to effectively gather online information for investigative purposes relating to persons, companies, and other assets. Attendees will be introduced to methods for gathering online intelligence through social media platforms, search engines, and dark web searches. In addition, attendees will learn how to assess potential counter-intelligence concerns.  Particular emphasis will be placed on heightened awareness and the “paper trail” investigators leave behind when using internet investigation tools. Approaches to maintain privacy and security when carrying our online investigations will also be explored and attendees will be introduced to a variety of online search methodologies.

Instructed by Martin Hurst

NOTE: There is an option to sign up for the first day only of this workshop for a reduced price of $286 – contact jdreyer@bcit.ca for more information.

More information and registration on our website.

 

Surrey RCMP Special Victims Unit (SVU) Community-based Victim Support Worker

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Job Summary   

A 3-year contract working in collaboration with the Surrey RCMP Special Victims Unit. Key responsibilities include risk assessment, safety planning as well as orientation and accompaniment to hospital, police and court. The support worker plays an important role liaising with key community stakeholders to increase the safety of child*, youth and adult survivors of sexual assault and/or exploitation.

This position reports to Surrey Women’s Centre’s Executive Director but works under the guidance of the of the Surrey RCMP Special Victim’s Unit on a day-to-day basis. This position works in the main Surrey RCMP detachment.

Hours of Work:

35 hours per week, Monday through Friday, occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Provides crisis intervention, risk assessments and safety planning and ongoing support.
  2. Provides orientation and accompaniment to hospital, police, court and other community resources.
  3. Provides information and referrals to appropriate community resources.
  4. Participates in inter-agency case management meetings.
  5. Partners with key community stakeholders to develop and implement local training and coordination protocols.

Qualifications:

  1. Post-secondary degree or diploma in a relevant field and a minimum of 2 years’ experience providing information, support and advocacy for women and children escaping violence using a feminist trauma-informed approach, or the equivalent combination of training, education and experience. Specific experience working with survivors of sexual assault and exploitation is an asset.
  2. Excellent working knowledge of the family law, criminal justice and child protection systems.
  3. Excellent working knowledge of relevant legislation, provincial and local coordination protocols.
  4. Knowledge of, and experience with, provincial and local coordination initiatives addressing violence against women and children is an asset.
  5. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse clientele, including marginalized women who experience multiple barriers.
  6. Demonstrated experience in collaborative conflict resolution, negotiation and/or mediation.
  7. Ability to work independently and as a part of team in a police-based environment.
  8. Excellent computer and administrative skills, including working knowledge of MS Office.
  9. Valid BC driver’s license with safe driving record.

Additional Information:

The successful candidate is required to obtain and maintain RCMP Reliability Security Clearance throughout their employment.

Deadline:  

Apply now! Applications will be assessed as received.

Submit:      

Cover letter and resume to Sonya Boyce, sb@surreywomenscentre.ca (email applications only)

Life at BCIT Blogger Job Opportunity

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The “Life at BCIT” blog provides prospective students insight as to what life is like as a BCIT student. As one of our student bloggers/vloggers on BCIT News, you’ll have the opportunity to share your student life experience while at BCIT – your classes, challenges, triumphs and what you’re doing outside of school.

You’ll be able to contribute up to two posts a week and encouraged to contribute at least 2 pieces of content per month. Commitment start and end dates will vary depending on your program and activity at BCIT. Successful candidates will receive monetary compensation for their posts and social media activity.

Blog/vlog posts can be done anywhere with an Internet connection and web browser.

 

Qualifications

– Full-time or part-time BCIT student (minimum of 2 classes)

– Good communication/written skills

– Know how to make video for social media

– Availability and flexibility to make minimum number of posts each month

– Time management skills, dependable and reliable

– Student must be legally entitled to work in Canada

 

Responsibilities

– Publishing a minimum of 2 posts / month, including photos and/or video

– Available for social media takeovers

– Available on occasion for Facebook live video events

– Responding in a timely manner to questions/comments to your posts

– Announce new posts through your own social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, etc.)

 

Compensation

Minimum 500 word blog post $40.00
Video 1: 1-3 minutes, one shot, talking head $40.00
Video 2: self-directed, 3-5 minutes, mix of multiple shots $60.00
Video 3: directed, pro editing, multiple shots $100.00
Social Post $10.00
Facebook Live event $25.00
Snapchat/Instagram takeover $20.00/day

 

Application information

Please email a short cover letter and resume as a Word or PDF document to: krystle_sivorot@bcit.ca

 

Practicum Opportunity with IIOBC

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Independent Investigations Office is looking for a practicum student to begin a 3 month practicum starting Spring/Summer 2017.

As an IIO practicum student your responsibilities will include:

  • Developing and delivering a range of analytical products,
  • Researching, collating, reviewing, evaluating, and analyzing information from a variety of sources to develop products that assist management in decision making and provides guidance and recommendation to further investigations
  • Contributing to program planning related to investigative analysis involving unique qualitative, quantitative and socioeconomic analysis, using social science theory and advanced statistical methods to develop various investigative analytical products
  • Providing guidance to other personnel on the process for data extraction and compilation which is utilized for the investigative analytical function, as well as for the preparation of statistical reports and investigative reviews

What will you do?

  • Tasks depending on the project… may include:
    • literature reviews/reviewing occurrence reports
    • assisting with data collection and entry (e.g., interviewing, contacting outside agencies, surveys)
    • assisting with basic descriptive analyses
    • assisting with report writing
    • helping develop studies
    • tasks vary— depending on assignments and roles

Expect….

  • a busy office environment
  • to conduct research in the “real world”
  • lots of variety in your tasks
  • opportunities to learn about the world of policing
  • experience working with the IIO
  • a challenging and rewarding experience.

Please contact Patrick Neal via email only (Patrick_neal@bcit.ca) with a 2 page resume and 1 page cover letter.  In the cover letter address, explain why you are the ideal candidate for the IIO.  The screening process will include 1 interview with Patrick for short listing and then 1 interview with IIO panel. Also please visit the IIO website for more details about IIO.  Interested students need to apply by email before June 15, 2017.