FORENSIC SCIENTIST II (DRUG
CHEMISTRY) 2271
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
Under general supervision, an
employee in this class performs complex technical work in conducting chemical,
instrumental and microscopic examinations of liquids, tablets, powders,
residues and plant material to establish the presence or absence of drugs or
other significant chemical agents. Work
differs from that of a FS I (Drug Chemistry) in that the analyses performed are
more complex than those performed by a FS I (Drug Chemistry). The
incumbent may oversee and review the work of subordinate laboratory 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 a technical or administrative
supervisor through conferences and a review of reports issued. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES
Conducts chemical,
instrumental and microscopic examinations of liquids, tablets, powders and
other evidence;
Performs
tests to detect and quantify drugs and other substances using complex
laboratory techniques and equipment.
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;
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
Thorough knowledge of the
principles and techniques of analytical chemistry; thorough knowledge of
instrumental techniques used in chemical analyses, such as luminescence
analysis and various types of spectroscopy, chromatography, spectrometry and
spectrophotometry; thorough knowledge of wet chemical and crystal tests for
drugs and other chemical agents; thorough knowledge of penal and public health
laws as they apply to chemical evidence; 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 forensic drug chemistry; 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 forensic drug chemistry.
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.
PROMOTIONAL
Two (2) years of permanent
competitive status as a Forensic Scientist I (Drug Chemistry).
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
At
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
Competitive