UNPACKING A CAREER IN FORENSICS

This is the post that would have been done on 20th July.

Oh Wow! CSI or not, this is something that I suspect I would be very good at (except the good interpersonal skills that is) and something that I would love to do. Sigh. Perhaps in my next life!

However, lives aside - here is yet another opportunity for those who weep and wail and gnash their teeth and say 'there's nothing out there available to us'.

Go get em!

Unpacking a career in forensics
14 May 2007 at 04h00

You have to remember, this is not CSI. Reconstruction takes time - it can take months to get information from the authorities and evidence seldom turns up in the nick of time. To manipulate the outcome of an investigation is common practice. We do not support this, and we are respected for it.

You often find yourself in life-threatening situations and you have to be prepared to deal with them. For instance, you could arrive at an accident to find it is a hijacking gone wrong, or robbers could have arrived on the scene before you and you will have to deal with them before assisting any accident victims.

In addition to investigative skills, you need good interpersonal skills to be able to deal with the family and friends of accident victims. You must be able to stay calm in very trying and chaotic situations and deal with people who may be very distressed or angry.

Qualifications needed: The three-year diploma in accident reconstruction will be available soon.

Where to train: Independent Bureau of Forensic (IBF) Investigation will soon be offering a three-year course.

Expected earnings: Rates range from R350 to R450 an hour, or R1 000 an accident.

Contact: IBF Investigations on 073 674 9268, stan@ibfsa.com, or www.ibfsa.com