FORENSIC SCIENTIST I (BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES)                                                           2262

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under general supervision, an employee in this class performs chemical and microscopic analyses of biological speci­mens.  The work involves the use and routine maintenance of sophisticated modern laboratory equipment.  The incumbent may be required to issue reports and give sworn testimony in legal proceedings.  The incumbent may be assigned to a team which responds to crime scenes.  Routine work is performed with some independence, but more complex assignments may be performed under direct supervision, depending upon the level of difficulty.  The work is reviewed by a technical and/or administrative supervisor through conferences and a review of reports issued.  Does related work as required. 

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

        Performs routine examinations of bloody or soiled clothing, bedding or other objects to establish the presence or absence of stains; 

        Conducts routine testing of stains, biological fluids and other specimens using sophisticated tech­niques;    

        May perform forensic DNA analysis of biological evidence;

        Prepares, labels, reads and interprets microscopic slides; 

        Issues signed reports of test results; 

        May review reports of varying complexities for correct organization, structure, and format (“Administrative Review”);

        May review reports of a level-appropriate complexity for validity of analyses performed (“Technical Review”);

        Responds to crime scenes and participates in the documentation and collec­tion of evidence from the scene;

        May receive, store and release evidence; 

        Interprets test results and keeps records of observations; 

        Performs routine maintenance of laboratory equipment; 

        May testify at a variety of legal proceedings concerning findings and observations;

        Participates in quality assurance activities and proficiency testing;

        May oversee the work of subordinate laboratory personnel; 

        May wash glassware and perform other housekeeping tasks. 

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Good knowledge of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics as it applies to forensic serology and/or DNA analysis; good knowledge of the techniques of microscopy, electrophoresis and related processes; good knowledge of modern laboratory methods, procedures and equipment; good knowledge of the rules of evidence and penal laws as they relate to forensic science investigations; skill in laboratory manipulative techniques; ability to make accurate observations and arrive at sound conclu­sions; patience; persistence; good judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

        OPEN COMPETITIVE

        Either:

        a)  Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Master's Degree in one of the natural or forensic sciences, including or supplemented by twelve (12) credit hours in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and either statistics or population genetics, and one (1) year of professional experience* in forensic biology; or,

        b)  Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Bachelor's Degree in one of the natural or forensic sciences, including or supplemented by twelve (12) credit hours in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and either statistics or population genetics,  and two (2) years of professional experience* in forensic biology.       

 

NOTE:   *Professional experience is defined as experience involving independent responsibility for the analysis of evidence or specimens, and may include signing and issuing reports.  Qualifying experience must have been gained within the last ten (10) years. 

 

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

At the time of appointment and during employment in this title, employees will be required to possess a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State.

 

Candidates will be subject to a background investigation.

 

R 1/1/18

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive