FORENSIC SCIENTIST II (TRACE EVIDENCE) 2265

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under general supervision, an employee in this class performs complex 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. Work differs from that of a FS I (Trace Evidence) in that the analyses performed are more complex than those performed by a FS I (Trace Evidence). The work involves the use and routine maintenance of sophisticated modern laboratory equipment. The incumbent may oversee and review the work of subordinate personnel, ensure the reliability of test results, and 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 analysis of bloody or soiled clothing, bedding or other objects to recover trace evidence;

Analyzes hair & fibers, paint metal, glass, fire debris and other evidence using sophisticated laboratory techniques and equipment;

Performs examinations of footwear, foot and tire impressions on various surfaces, the preparation of casts or photographs of such impressions, and the comparison of same with exemplars for characterization;

Performs reconstructions of objects and/or scenes, restorations of obliterated numbers and impressions on metal surfaces, determines the density and/or refractive index of various specimens;

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 receive, store and release evidence;

May provide training on a specific method, procedure, or piece of equipment to any level of laboratory personnel;

Performs advanced microscopic examination of hairs, fibers and other trace evidence;

May conduct collision reconstruction analysis of motor vehicle collisions.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Thorough knowledge of conventional, polarizing and comparative microscopy; thorough knowledge of analytical chemistry as applied to the analysis of trace evidence; thorough knowledge of wet casting and photographic techniques used in the analysis of physical evidence; thorough knowledge of modern laboratory methods, procedures and equipment; thorough knowledge of penal laws as they apply to criminalistics; 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

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 three (3) years 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 four (4) 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.

PROMOTIONAL

Two (2) years of permanent competitive status as a Forensic Scientist I (Trace Evidence).

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