Fingerprint Technician Training in Michigan

In Michigan, a fingerprint technician performs a variety of assignments in order to classify fingerprints, search fingerprint records, and compare fingerprint cards to an Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) for the purpose of accurately identifying and verifying fingerprints.

In this job, there are four classifications:

Fingerprint Technician 7 – This is the entry level. The employee, in a learning capacity, performs a range of fingerprint technician assignments while learning the required skills, methods, processes, and procedures of the work area under close supervision.

Fingerprint Technician 8 – This is the intermediate level. The employee works in a developing capacity with increased responsibility for performing a range of fingerprint technician assignments.

Fingerprint Technician E9 – This is the experienced level. The employee performs a full range of fingerprint technician assignments and uses independent judgement in making decisions based on applying established guidelines to specific situations.

Fingerprint Technician 10 – This is the advanced level. The employee serves either as a lead worker responsible for overseeing the work activities of lower-level Fingerprint Technicians or as a senior worker performing the most complex fingerprint technician. Senior-level employees consistently perform complex assignments beyond those expected at the experienced level which have been defined by the Appointing Authority and approved by Civil Service.

Basic Requirements for Fingerprint Technician in Michigan

Some knowledge in the area listed is required at the entry level, developing knowledge is required at the intermediate level, considerable knowledge is required at the experienced level, and thorough knowledge is required at the advanced level.

• Knowledge of computer data processing functions as they relate to data input/output.
• Knowledge of fingerprint identification principles, practices, methods, and techniques.
• Knowledge of automated fingerprint classification and identification systems.
• Knowledge of criminal history requirements.
• Knowledge of presentation methods and techniques for court appearances.
• Ability to compile technical data.
• Ability to maintain records, prepare reports, and compose correspondence related to the work.
• Ability to compare fingerprints to master records and verify identical sets of prints.
• Ability to accurately classify fingerprints.
• Ability to interpret fingerprint patterns.
• Ability to complete fingerprint identification and computer training programs.
• Ability to operate fingerprint input monitors and data entry terminals.
• Ability to operate fingerprint reader.
• Ability to record fingerprint information.
• Ability to upgrade the AFIS database.
• Ability to determine the quality of fingerprints.
• Ability to roll fingerprints.

Fingerprint Technician 10 (Senior Worker): Knowledge of presentation methods and techniques for court appearances. Ability to testify in court on  fingerprint identification matters.

Education
Completion of high school, high school diploma or equivalent.

Experience
Fingerprint Technician 7 – Two years of general office support experience.
Fingerprint Technician 8 – One year of experience equivalent to a Fingerprint Technician.
Fingerprint Technician E9 – Two years of experience equivalent to a Fingerprint Technician, including one year equivalent to a Fingerprint Technician 8.
Fingerprint Technician 10 – Three years of experience equivalent to a Fingerprint Technician, including one year equivalent to a Fingerprint Technician E9.

Fingerprint Technician Training in Michigan

Oakland Community College
CRJ 2254 Fingerprint Classification and Identification. This is a course of study dealing with fingerprint techniques, recording, and classifying fingerprints, identifying classification patterns and compositions, learning the Henry System of classification and variations to the system, developing, recording, photographing, comparison, and identification of latent fingerprints. Laboratory procedures will be studied in the use of developing power, chemical development of latent prints, and preparation of evidence for court presentation.

Online Fingerprint Technician Training

We are now offering online Fingerprint Technician training! This self-paced course will walk you through all the skills needed to acquire a job as a Fingerprint Technician. You will learn how to identify and classify all types of fingerprints.

Many law enforcement agencies require this specific training in order to be hired as a Fingerprint Technician. Get the skills you need today!

View a detailed course description and enroll at Fingerprint Identification & Classification Online Course.