FORENSIC SCIENTIST
II (BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES) 2263
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
Under general supervision, an
employee in this class performs complex technical work in the chemical and
microscopic analyses of biological specimens. Work differs from that of a FS I (Biological
Sciences) in that the analyses performed are more complex than those performed
by a FS I (Biological Science). The work
involves the use of and maintenance of sophisticated modern laboratory
equipment. The incumbent may oversee and review the work of subordinate
laboratory personnel, ensure the reliability of test results, develop and
evaluate methods used in the section. May
participate in crime scene investigations and issue reports of analyses
performed. The work includes giving
testimony at a variety of legal proceedings, and requires the exercise of
independent judgment and initiative. Supervision
is received from an administrative supervisor through conferences and a review
of reports issued. Does related work as
required.
Performs
examinations of bloody or soiled clothing, bedding or other objects to
establish the presence or absence of stains;
Conducts
testing of stains, biological fluids and other specimens;
May
perform forensic DNA analysis of biological evidence;
Issues
signed reports of work performed;
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”);
May
oversee the work of subordinate laboratory personnel;
Develops
and evaluates methods which might be useful in the section's work;
May
participate in crime scene investigations;
Gives
testimony at a variety of legal proceedings regarding findings and
observations;
Participates
in quality assurance activities and proficiency testing;
Performs
routine maintenance of laboratory equipment;
May
provide training on a specific method, procedure, or piece of equipment to all
levels of laboratory personnel;
May
receive, store and release evidence.
Thorough knowledge of biochemistry,
molecular biology and genetics as it applies to forensic biology and/or DNA
analysis; thorough knowledge of the techniques of microscopy, electrophoresis
and related processes; thorough knowledge of statistical methods; thorough
knowledge of modern laboratory methods, procedures and equipment; thorough
knowledge of penal laws as they relate to forensic science investigations;
skill in laboratory manipulative techniques; ability to train and evaluate the
work of others in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale;
ability to make accurate observations and arrive at sound conclusions; ability
to perform routine maintenance on complex electronic laboratory equipment;
ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing;
patience; persistence; good judgment; physical condition commensurate with the
demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
OPEN
COMPETITIVE
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 three (3) credit hours in
biochemistry, three (3) credit hours in genetics, three (3) credit hours in molecular
biology, and three (3) credit hours in either statistics or population
genetics, and three (3) years 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 three (3) credit hours in
biochemistry, three (3) credit hours in genetics, three (3) credit hours in molecular
biology, and three (3) credit hours in either statistics or population
genetics, and four (4) 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 includes signing and issuing
reports. Qualifying experience must have
been gained within the last ten (10) years.
PROMOTIONAL
Two
(2) years of permanent competitive status as a Forensic Scientist I (Biological
Sciences).
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