Criminalist I-IV

Duties

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Under direction, may perform physical and chemical analyses in the examination of evidence and prepare reports of findings;
• may examine crime scenes, and collect, examine and preserve physical evidence;
• testify in court as an expert witness;
• use computers, computer databases and specialized equipment;
• test-fire various firearms, consult with, police officers, attorneys, and private experts;
• operate, calibrate, and perform maintenance on breath alcohol testing instruments;
• may act in a lead capacity;
• may teach classes and provide training on forensic investigation and the collection and preservation of evidence, may make recommendations concerning the laboratory budget and policy;
• may monitor and ensure continued compliance with state laws, laboratory licensing requirements, external accreditation standards, the most recent ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB) Policy on the Estimation of Uncertainty of Measurement, Measurement Traceability, Department policies, and Crime Laboratory operational standard and quality management system;
• may monitor and maintain control of documentation for the laboratory operations, quality manual, technical procedures, personnel testimony evaluations, case records, technical records, instrument calibration, maintenance records, training records, competency testing, quality assurance records and documentation related to the quality system;
• assist with grants, quality assurance audits and manual revisions;
• and perform other duties as required.

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

Requirements

REQUIREMENTS TO FILE

• A Bachelor's degree in Criminalistics, Forensic Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, or closely related science field (proof required)* in accordance with The ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Candidates must possess all of the following:
• Knowledge of ANAB accreditation standards/criteria;
• Knowledge of forensic analysis of various types of physical evidence;
• Knowledge of basic principles and practices of data collection;
• Ability to effectively and tactfully communicate both orally and in writing;
• Ability to follow written policy manuals and scientific procedures;
• Ability to work occasional evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

A valid driver's license, or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel, may be required for some assignments.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 1 (one) year (paid, full time equivalent) working as a Criminalist or Forensic Scientist in an ANAB accredited crime lab; the ability to present complex scientific findings in court, demonstrates critical thinking skills, and train personnel in scientific/forensic investigation; knowledge of the Toxicology, Crime Scene and/or Forensic Biology Disciplines; ability to pass a comprehensive personal and criminal background investigation.

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