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.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

            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.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

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).

 

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