FORENSIC SCIENTIST I (TRACE EVIDENCE) 2264

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under general supervision, an employee in this class performs chemical, microscopic, physical, and instrumental analyses of paint, glass, soil, hair & fibers, fire debris and other trace evidence, examines and compares tire and footwear impressions, prepares cast impressions and performs tests on other physical evidence removed from crime scenes. 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 that responds to crime scenes. Routine work is performed with some independence, but assignments of greater complexity may be performed under direct supervision, depending on the level of difficulty. 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 recover trace evidence;

Analyzes various types of trace evidence using sophisticated laboratory equipment and techniques;

Examines footwear, foot and tire impressions on various surfaces, prepares casts or photographs of such impressions and compares them to exemplars for characterization;

Reconstructs objects, restores obliterated numbers and impressions on metal surfaces, and determines density and/or refractive index of various specimens;

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;

Participates in quality assurance activities and proficiency testing;

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;

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 conventional, polarizing and comparative microscopy; good knowledge of analytical chemistry as applied to the analysis of trace evidence; good knowledge of wet casting and photographic techniques used in the analysis of physical evidence; good knowledge of modern laboratory methods, procedures and equipment; skill in laboratory manipulative techniques; ability to operate and perform routine maintenance on complex electronic laboratory equipment; 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 sixteen (16) credit hours in chemistry, and one (1) year of professional experience* in the analysis of trace evidence; 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 sixteen (16) credit hours in chemistry, and two (2) years of professional experience* in the analysis of trace evidence.

NOTE: *Professional experience is defined as experience involving independent responsibility for the analysis of evidence, 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