Forensic Scientist IV – DNA Technical Leader

Duties

Essential Functions

• Oversees and is accountable for the DNA technical operations;
• Has the authorities and responsibilities delineated in the FBI QAS;
• Acts as, and appoints, a Casework CODIS Administrator or alternate;
• Creates and monitors discipline-specific quality guidance, analytical methods, and training plans;
• Validates new procedures and technologies (e.g., instruments, chemistries, and software);
• Awareness and evaluation of current and new discipline-related techniques and technologies;
• Evaluates discipline services and supplies;
• Directs annual quality system and case file reviews for the discipline
• Oversees and evaluates the training of analysts;
• Provides information and training for law enforcement, attorneys, and the public;
• Collects, secures, and maintains evidence, and keeps accurate records;
• Maintains safe chemical handling practices;
• Utilizes physical and chemical processes to identify and evaluate evidence;
• Analyzes scientific data to form opinions and interpretations;
• Responds to crime scenes; photographs, documents, and collects evidence;
• Maintains competency, prepares reports, and performs reviews in casework;
• Reviews technical and quality procedures;
• Testifies in court proceedings;
• Participates in annual proficiency testing, inventories, and internal audits.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

• Assists with estimating budgetary requirements;
• Performs related functions as required.

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

Requirements

Job Requirements

• Earned master’s degree higher from an accredited academic institution in a biology, chemistry, or forensic science-related area;
• Successful completion of coursework, as required by the FBI QAS:
• required coursework must include at least one graduate-level course
• at least 9 credit hours of biology or chemistry-related coursework that provides an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis
• statistics or population genetics
• Have at least three years of human DNA experience as a qualified forensic casework analyst;
• Completed or will complete the FBI’s DNA auditor training course;
• Holds or will obtain certification in at least one forensic specialty, preferably related to DNA analysis;
• Knowledge of the FBI QAS for DNA laboratories and international standards for laboratory accreditation;
• Knowledge of State, Federal, and County laws, rules, and ordinances, and knowledge of the criminal justice system;
• Knowledge of the scientific laboratory methods, equipment, processes, and procedures specific to crime scene and evidence analysis;
• Knowledge of hazards and safety practices associated with chemicals and infectious diseases;
• Skill in using modern office equipment;
• Ability to effectively respond to law enforcement officials, court officials, victims, and other members of the general public;
• Ability to perform duties independently and in a self-directed manner;
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions;
• Ability to interpret a variety of technical instructions;
• Ability to work accurately with attention to detail;
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with the assigned supervisor and others;
• Ability to understand directions and communicate verbally and in writing;
• Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation;
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle;
• Ability to perform complex mental functions for sustained periods of time;
• Have corrected vision (may not be colorblind) and hearing;
• Have sufficient manual dexterity and hand/eye coordination to operate laboratory and other related forensic equipment.

HIGHLY PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/CERTIFICATIONS

• Forensics-related certification;
• Experience performing audits to ISO/IEC 17025 or FBI QAS standards;
• Experience validating instrumentation and software related to DNA analysis;
• Experience working with next-generation sequencing (NGS);
• Experience using CODIS and knowledge of NDIS operating procedures and DNA eligibility requirements;
• Experience testifying as an expert or providing training on DNA analysis;
• Experience as a forensic discipline lead.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess and maintain a valid Idaho driver’s license;
• Must wear the uniform of a non-commissioned deputy sheriff for scene response;
• Must pass an oral examination, polygraph examination, credit check, and background check prior to hire;
• This position is required to be on-call in order to perform the primary job responsibilities;
• This position has been designated safety sensitive and, therefore, the incumbent is subject to random drug testing.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position requires the incumbent to work in an office environment, laboratory, and in the field;
• Incumbent may be subjected to a variety of chemicals and infectious diseases;
• Incumbent is required to respond to crime scenes and be exposed to unpleasant situations and environments;
• Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs.

DISCLAIMER
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential functions satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of individuals in the job. This job description is not an employment agreement and/or an expressed or implied employment contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. Ada County provides Veteran's Preference for all County jobs except for those deemed "key positions" in accordance with Title 65, Chapter 5 of Idaho Code.

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