Firearms Examiner

Duties

(This is not an all-inclusive list of all job duties that may be required; employees will be required to perform other related duties as assigned.)

• Examines evidence using forensic techniques; prioritizes procedures and preserves appropriate samples for any subsequent forensic analysis.
• Maintains knowledge of the historical development of firearms and tool mark identification, to perform various types of evidentiary examination procedures (e.g. appropriate sample sizes, standards, control mechanisms, testing conditions).
• Examines firearms, ammunition and components, and related evidence.
• Test fires firearms for mechanical function, safety, accuracy etc.
• Designs and conducts research related to cases.
• Enters and searches data in NIBIN.
• Writes scientific examination reports, prepares courtroom testimony and demonstratives, testify in court, and discuss laboratory results with law enforcement and attorneys.
• Communicates in multiple formats with supervisors, MCSO staff, county employees, attorneys, and other experts in the field to exchange information regarding analyses of evidence.
• Consults and coordinates with forensic scientists, law enforcement, attorneys, forensic experts, and others regarding analysis, comparison, and identification of physical evidence.
• Inspects and evaluates equipment and standard operating procedures to determine compliance with standards, regulations, specifications, and guidelines.
• Works routinely with chemicals using personal protective equipment when appropriate and ensure safety protocols.
• Prepares mathematical and statistical computations, graphs, charts, and diagrams to complete and report scientific examinations.
• Determines characteristic ammunition and components used in shooting events and analyzing correlation to any firearm in question.
• Maintains firearm and toolmark training.
• Completes technical and/or chemical tests on firearms related evidence.
• Follows the proper chain of custody protocol.
• Maintains firearms related equipment and supplies, including calibrations and ordering of inventory.
• Conducts scheduled tours of the Firearms Laboratory to the public.
• Possess the knowledge and ability to perform casework which if handled incorrectly could result in liability (loss of life, wrongful conviction, mistrial, inaccurate capital case factors, etc.)

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

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or Criminalistics related field.

Experience

• Combined education and experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications on a year for year basis.

Other requirements

• Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license or have the ability to obtain by the time of hire.
• Training that may be provided on the job: FEMA NIMS – IS100 and 700, safety, payroll, PREA.
• Prior to hiring, the Sheriff's Office requires that all candidates pass an extensive background review, polygraph and psychological testing.

Our Preferred Candidate has

• Successfully completed a documented forensic firearm training program and/or demonstration of competency.
• Obtained a certification from the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
• Two (2) years of experience in a forensic, science or engineering discipline.
• Specific education/training in shooting reconstruction, trajectory, firearms analysis or other related forensic firearms disciplines.
• Understands and practices firearm safety and proper handling techniques.
• Experience of microscopy.

Do you have the Education Required? See available on-line and campus-based degree programs now!