An Identikit expert is a trained professional who creates facial composites or sketches of suspects based on eyewitness descriptions. They work closely with eyewitnesses to ensure that the composite sketch is as accurate as possible. They also work with other law professionals, such as detectives, to gather additional information about the suspect’s appearance and behavior.
Identikit expert may also be called upon to create sketches of crime scenes, weapons, and other relevant details. These sketches can help investigators to better understand the circumstances surrounding a crime and to identify potential suspects.
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Identikit Expert career path
Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
While there is no specific degree requirement for this career, it is recommended to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as forensic science, criminal justice, fine arts, or graphic design. A degree in any of these fields will provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for this career.
Obtain Training or Certification in Art and Design
Developing skills in art and design through coursework and internships can certainly in building a foundation for creating accurate composites.
Gain Training in Identikit Software
Identikit expert use specialized software to create composites. It’s essential to gain training and proficiency in the use of this software, such as SketchCop® FACETTE®.
Gain Field Experience
Gaining field experience specifically through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions in these fields can be an excellent way to learn more about the criminal justice system.
Educational requirements and certifications for Identikit Experts
Becoming an Identikit expert certainly requires a combination of formal education and specialized training. Here are some of the educational requirements and certifications that are generally sought after by those pursuing a career in this field:
Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as forensic science, criminal justice, art, or psychology is typically required for this career. Coursework in anatomy, forensic art, drawing, and computer graphics can be particularly useful in preparing for this career.
Training
Specialized training in forensic art and facial reconstruction is also necessary to become an Identikit expert. This can be obtained through a variety of sources, including workshops, internships, and on-the-job training specifically with law enforcement agencies or forensic art studios.
Certification
The International Association for Identification (IAI) offers a certification program for forensic artists. Additionally, to become certified, candidates must demonstrate knowledge and skill in facial reconstruction, facial anatomy, and the use of forensic art software.
Skills and abilities needed to be Identikit Expert
Becoming an Identikit Expert surely requires a unique set of skills and abilities. Here are some of the key skills and abilities that are undoubtedly required to succeed in this field:
Artistic Skills
Anyone pursuing this career must have a keen eye for detail, artistic ability, and an understanding of facial anatomy and proportions. Basically, they should be able to accurately represent the physical characteristics of individuals, including skin tone, eye color, hair type, and facial features.
Communication Skills
To obtain information on suspects, Identikit experts must be outstanding communicators who can collaborate closely with law enforcement officials, witnesses, and victims. Additionally, to get accurate descriptions, they must be able to listen carefully and ask the proper questions.
Attention to Detail
Identikit experts must pay close attention to detail to ensure that the composite images they create accurately represent the individual being described.
Technology Skills
Anyone pursuing this career must be proficient in using specialized software, such as SketchCop or FACES, to create composite images. They must be able to work with digital images, manipulate and combine features, and adjust lighting and shading to create a realistic representation.
Analytical Skills
For professionals in this field, to comprehend the significance of the information they receive from witnesses and victims, they need to possess excellent analytical abilities. To produce an accurate composite image, they must be able to decide which aspects are most important and how to combine them.
Time Management Skills
Professionals in this field must be able to manage their time effectively and work efficiently to create composite images within tight deadlines. Generally, they must be able to work under pressure and be flexible to accommodate changes in priorities.
Ethical Conduct
Anyone working in this field must be committed to ethical conduct and maintain a high level of professionalism at all times. Most important thing for them is to respect the confidentiality of the information they receive and adhere to legal standards in the field.
Opportunities for career advancement and professional development as Identikit Experts
Anyone pursuing a career in identikits can advance in their careers by gaining more experience, enhancing their skills and knowledge, and taking on more challenging roles. Here are some opportunities for them to advance in their careers:
Senior Identikit Expert
After gaining experience in creating composites, professionals having a career in identikits and forensics can advance to a senior role. They may be responsible for supervising junior Identikit expert and managing projects.
Forensic Artist
Professionals pursuing this career can also advance to become Forensic Artists, who create facial reconstructions from skeletal remains, provide courtroom testimony, and create illustrations for various legal cases.
Management Roles
An Identikit professional can rise to senior positions in law enforcement or private investigation organisations with experience and extra training. These positions entail managing projects, managing teams of Identikit Experts, and creating plans to enhance composite development procedures.
Teaching and Consulting
Experienced Identikit expert can also pursue opportunities to teach or consult on composite creation techniques, software, and procedures.
Research and Development
Identikit expert can also work in research and development to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of composite creation techniques and software.
Identikit experts Salary
The salary of an Identikit expert can vary greatly depending on their location, level of experience, and the organization they work for. Entry-level expert may earn less than experienced ones who have worked in the field for several years.
In India, the average salary of an Identikit expert is around Rs. 6,00,000 to Rs. 10,00,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on the organization they work for and their level of experience. In government organizations like the police or forensic labs, the salary may be lower but the job security is generally higher.
The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics reports , the median annual wage for forensic science technicians—which includes Identikit Experts—was $61,220. According to the National Criminal Justice Association and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, identikit experts can expect to make between $56,000 and $65,000 annually on average. Experts employed by private investigation firms can expect to make between $55,000 and $75,000 annually on average.
Job Opportunities for Identikit Expert
Identikit expert are typically employed by law enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, and forensic laboratories. Some of the companies that employ Identikit expertin India and abroad include:
Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL)
CFSL is a premier forensic laboratory in India, generally employing Identikit expert to create composite images of suspects for criminal investigations.
Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL)
FSL is another leading forensic laboratory in India that employs Identikit expert to assist in criminal investigations.
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
The CBI is the premier investigating agency in India, generally employing Identikit expert to assist in their investigations.
Delhi Police
The Delhi Police employ Identikit expert to assist in criminal investigations and to create composite images of suspects.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The FBI is a law enforcement agency in the United States, employing Identikit expert to create composite images of suspects for criminal investigations.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
The RCMP is the national police force of Canada, and they employ Identikit expert to assist in criminal investigations.
Metropolitan Police Service (MPS)
The MPS is the police force responsible for law enforcement in Greater London, England, and they employ Identikit expert to create composite images of suspects for criminal investigations.
Epilogue
We hope we have served you most of the answers. Thinking about wandering into the vast expanse of Identikit Expert? It is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after job roles in the industry today. Whether you’ve already planned a career in it or just starting to dip your toes in the thoughts of it, allow us to make it a bit easier for you.
Talk to an expert today to figure out more of what you must know before you begin your journey. At iDreamCareer with the help of our Career Counselling and Guidance Services and educational counsellor, we try to help many young confused minds from 9th class, 10th class, class 11, class 12 with an aim to select their suitable career choices.
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FAQs
An identikit expert is a professional who creates composite sketches of suspects based on witness descriptions or other forms of evidence. They work closely with law enforcement agencies to help identify suspects and solve crimes.
Typically, Identikit professional needs at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as forensic science, criminal justice, or art. However, some employers may accept candidates with equivalent work experience or specialized training.
An identikit expert must have strong artistic skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with witnesses and law enforcement personnel. They should also have knowledge of forensic science and criminal investigation techniques.
Identikit experts may be employed by law enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, or forensic art consulting companies. They may also work as independent contractors or consultants.
The average salary range for an identikit expert in India is around INR 4,00,000 to INR 8,00,000 per year, depending on their level of experience and the employer.
The field of forensic art and identikit technology is expected to grow in the coming years, as law enforcement agencies continue to seek out new tools and techniques to aid in criminal investigations. As technology continues to evolve, the role of the identikit expert may also shift to include more advanced imaging and analytical tools.
Bhavya Saini has 3+ years of experience in the research sector and has previously worked with a Research & Consulting startup. She has done her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Psychology from Delhi University and is currently working in iDC as a Associate Researcher.
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