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.
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