Senior Forensic Analyst (Biology/DNA Unit)

Duties

The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.

• Perform analysis of evidence in complex cases and prepare detailed reports summarizing examination findings for law enforcement personnel and the legal community.
• Examination, identification, and comparison of evidence and/or investigation of various types of crimes.
• Conduct field crime scene work to gather and analyze evidence.
• Conducts routine examination and/or investigation without direct supervision.
• Demonstrates effective use of case management to meet the case and/or court deadlines.
• Performs the duties of the unit supervisor in their absence.
• Provide expert forensic guidance and advice to judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys to prepare exploratory questions for witnesses.
• Perform quality control and quality assurance checks on chemicals, standards, and quality-affecting materials used in the respective unit.
• Testing purchased chemicals and reagents for efficacy and reliability before they are used in casework.
• Perform technical and/or administrative reviews on reports generated by other Unit personnel. May perform technical review and verifications on reports in multiple sub-disciplines
• Testifies as an expert witness.
• Provides training and guidance for less experienced personnel.

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

Requirements

PREFERENCES:

• Preference may be given to candidates with degrees in Biology, Chemistry, or a forensic science-related area with coursework in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics/population genetics, plus 2 or more years of progressive work experience in a forensic laboratory. Preference may be given to candidates who complete competency testing in the scope of practice as required by the laboratory's accreditation standards.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Knowledge of criminal law as it applies to forensic analysis.
• Knowledge of forensic laboratory techniques, analysis, and applications.
• Knowledge of methods, procedures, equipment, and materials used in forensic analysis and their applications and limitations.
• Knowledge of research or investigative techniques and controls, which limit or expand the significance of the findings.
• Knowledge of the impact of work and testing performed in compliance with accreditation and state/federal regulations.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, with emphasis on those procedures associated with the handling of bio-hazardous materials.
• Knowledge of the theory and application of forensic sciences, statistics, and evidence preservation processes relates to modern forensic laboratory techniques, practices, and procedures.
• Skill in explaining scientific procedures and results to a layperson in understandable terms.
• Skill in recording and maintaining detailed records and in understanding and carrying out oral and written instructions.
• Skill in interpersonal relations, maintaining good rapport with criminal justice personnel and fellow employees, and working with others to achieve common goals.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelor's Degree (typically in Biology, Chemistry, or Forensic Science-related area)
• Experience: 4-6 years of progressive work experience in (Forensic Crime) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Forensic Analyst

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Valid Driver's License

Necessary Special Requirements

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Subject to being on-call 24/7 for response to field crime scenes.
• Ability to travel statewide in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work overtime as required.
• Ability to be on-call for crime scene assistance.
• Ability to work crime scenes, which could involve climbing, crawling, squatting, lying

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