Forensic Biology/DNA Specialist

Duties

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. The omission of a function does not preclude management from assigning essential duties not listed herein if such duties relate to the position.

• Examines forensic evidence for existence of biological materials including blood and semen
• Analyzes, extracts, and interprets forensic DNA samples isolated from biological materials
• Conducts preliminary testing, examination and preparation of physical/chemical evidence (potentially bio-hazardous)
• Generates and reviews data from laboratory examination to determine findings; compiles data for reporting purposes and judicial process as applicable
• Participates in external proficiency testing, courtroom testimony monitoring, continued technical training, quality audits, and accreditation inspections by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), or other accrediting bodies
• Performs serological analysis of evidence and document results
• Testifies to analytical results and findings in depositions and court
• May review and sign reports/documentation of City of Fort Lauderdale personnel assigned to the BSO Crime Laboratory
• Utilizes hazardous chemicals and solutions to obtain analytical results pertaining to unknown materials
• Prepares unit equipment for testing and analytical tasks; maintains general cleanliness of laboratory and equipment
• Retrieves and returns physical/chemical evidence (potentially health damaging) to/from evidence custodian in the evidence vault; secures evidence while in custody
• May lead, train, assist and review the work of City of Fort Lauderdale personnel assigned to the BSO Crime Laboratory.
• Attends and provides training and laboratory meetings and provides assistance to other unit personnel in procedures, methods, and unit standards.
• Spends at least 65 percent of time performing duties that involve the collection, examination, preservation, documentation, preparation, or analysis of human tissues or fluids or physical evidence having potential biological, chemical, or radiological hazard or contamination, or use chemicals, processes, or materials that may have carcinogenic or health-damaging properties in the analysis of such evidence.
• Performs related work as required

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

Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS, PREFERENCES & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural or Physical Sciences with credits in genetics, biochemistry, statistics, organic chemistry and molecular biology (molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology) or closely related field.
• Five (5) years of technical experience in criminology or forensic science, involving specialized testing and analysis in DNA Analysis or a related specialized area of forensic science, with exposure to the administrative aspects of the work. Additional qualifying experience or completion of coursework at an accredited college or university in a job-related field, may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required experience or education.
• Must meet the current FBI Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing.
• Must acquire and maintain certification from the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC)
• Must have completed an Internal Auditor Training Course (or equivalent).
• Must obtain and maintain all credentials as required in accordance with accreditation standards of the Broward Sheriff's Office Crime Laboratory.
• Successfully complete a pre-polygraph interview, polygraph examination, and background investigation.
• If claiming Veteran's Preference, candidates must attach a DD214 Member 4 form, and the City of Fort Lauderdale's veteran's preference claim form (J-204) to the online application.

Special Requirements:

• As public servants, employees may be required to work immediately before, during, and/or after an emergency. All employees must be available and able to work assigned shifts as determined by their Department Heads.

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