Police Firearms & Toolmark Examiner

Duties

Examples of Duties

• Examines bullets, bullet fragments, cartridge cases, firearms, and related evidence.
• Identifies makes, calibers, and origins of firearms and weapons.
• Identifies calibers, manufacturers, and origins of ammunition and their components.
• Conducts test firing of firearms and weapons to determine the functioning condition of the submitted firearms.
• Discharges weapons to produce spent ammunition for test firing characteristics and to facilitate microscopic comparisons of bullets and spent shells.
• Enters test shots and crime evidence into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
• Performs standardized tests on other articles of evidence using reagents, physical testing equipment, and measuring instruments.
• Restores obliterated or defaced serial numbers on serialized items.
• Prepares written reports of all findings and provides testimony as an expert witness at depositions, hearings, and trials.
• Performs maintenance on equipment as required.
• Successfully conducts and completes one proficiency annually in each discipline of expertise.
• Performs related work as required.

Note: The example of duties should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of the job. Individuals may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the theory and principles of ballistics as applied in forensic investigation and analysis.
• Knowledge of forensic and ballistics laboratory analysis and standardized test procedures.
• Knowledge of reagents, physical testing equipment, and measuring instruments used in forensic and ballistic analysis.
• Knowledge of the standard practices, methods, and techniques used in the preparation of test results and scientific reports.
• Knowledge of firearms, ammunition, and their manufacture.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local criminal laws and regulations related to the examination of physical evidence.
• Skill in the proper handling of evidence.
• Skill in performing standardized laboratory tests on items designated as evidence.
• Skill in analyzing laboratory findings; identifying and comparing bullets, cartridge cases, and other ammunition components.
• Skill in preparing and presenting scientific reports in a clear, concise, and accurate manner, resulting from conclusions of laboratory analysis.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize with periodic interruptions to ensure timely task completion.
• Adaptable to change.
• Ability to seek out knowledge, assimilate training, and develop competence.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to express technical information orally and in writing when reporting results, testifying, or explaining procedures to others.
• Ability to utilize computers and related software for analysis of evidence.
• Must possess a collaborative spirit and promote team cohesiveness.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to stand for long periods, bend, reach, lift, and carry moderate weight.
• Capacity to work in potentially uncomfortable or hazardous environments, including exposure to chemicals, biohazards, and potentially disturbing crime scene elements.
• Occasionally work in extreme weather conditions if responding to a scene.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a baccalaureate or an advanced degree in a natural science or forensic science.
-OR-
• Two (2) years of experience as a forensic examiner in the firearms discipline in an ISO 17025-accredited crime laboratory.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The position will require the submission of a buccal swab to the local DNA database
• Possess a valid state driver's license.
• Ability to operate the Mobile Crime Laboratory Utility Vehicle.
• There is a two-year probationary period for employees in this class. The employee must satisfactorily complete all required training and competency testing and is subject to dismissal for failing to complete probation. If the employee is successfully progressing in the job but has not completed training/competency testing, probation may be extended at the discretion of the Chief of Police.

Additional Information

• CITIZENSHIP: Citizen of the United States or valid work permit, and apply for citizenship when eligible.
• AGE LIMITS: Eighteen (18) years of age at the time of appointment.
• EDUCATION: Educational requirements and skills will be determined by the position classification.
• ARREST: Must be free from conviction of a felony or a Class "A" misdemeanor.
• MILITARY: Must not have a "Dishonorable" discharge or "Bad Conduct" discharge if having served in the military. All "Other Than Honorable" discharges will be reviewed on an individual basis.

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