Forensic Specialist (Toxicology Unit)

Duties and Requirements Click to read more

Duties

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

• Performs examinations on evidence leading to forensic conclusions for use in legal proceedings in all types of cases.
• Prepares written reports of forensic analysis and conclusions for use in legal proceedings.
• Examination, identification, and comparison of evidence and/or investigation of various types of crimes.
• Conducts routine examination and/or investigation under direct supervision.
• Demonstrates effective use of case management to meet the case and/or court deadlines.
• May provide expert forensic guidance and advice to judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys to prepare exploratory questions for witnesses.
• May participate in quality control and quality assurance checks on chemicals, standards, and quality-affecting materials used in the respective units.
• Perform technical and/or administrative reviews on reports generated by other Unit personnel.
• May perform technical review and confirmation of identifications and associations on reports in multiple sub-disciplines.
• May testify as an expert witness.
• Conduct field crime scene work to gather and analyze evidence.

Requirements

PREFERENCES:

• Preference may be given to candidates with a degree in Chemistry, Toxicology or other physical sciences plus 0-2 years of progressive work experience in a forensic laboratory.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Knowledge of the general theory and application of toxicology.
• Knowledge of forensic laboratory analysis techniques and applications.
• Knowledge of methods, procedures, equipment, and materials used in forensic toxicology analysis and their limitations.
• Knowledge of laboratory instrumentation.
• Knowledge of criminal law.
• Knowledge of the theory and application of forensic sciences, statistics, and evidence preservation processes relates to modern forensic laboratory techniques, practices, and procedures.
• 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 biohazardous materials.
• Skill in laboratory techniques.
• Skill in explaining scientific procedures and results to a layperson in understandable terms.
• Skill in recording and maintaining detailed records.
• Skill in maintaining confidentiality in all aspects of work.
• Skill in maintaining a good rapport with criminal justice personnel and fellow employees.
• Skill in working with others to achieve common goals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelor's Degree (typically in Science)
• Experience: 0-2 years of progressive work experience in (Forensic Crime) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Forensic Evidence Technician

OR

• Education & Experience Substitution: 3-5 years of progressive work experience in (Forensic Crime) with acquired knowledge at the level of a Forensic Evidence Technician

Necessary Special Requirements

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Subject to being on-call 24/7 for the response to field crime scenes.

NOTES:

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• A valid driver's license may be required.
• Successful applicants are required to pass a criminal background investigation.

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