FORENSIC SCIENTIST III (FIREARMS) 2284

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under general supervision, an employee in this class acts as the assistant section supervisor for the Firearms section of the crime laboratory. The incumbent supervises and participates in the performance of highly complex technical analyses in the Firearms section. The work involves the use and maintenance of highly sophisticated laboratory equipment. The incumbent is expected to perform the most complex examinations in the section, and assists the section supervisor in maintaining the section as close to "State of the Art" as possible. The work includes giving testimony at a variety of legal proceedings, and requires the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. Supervision is exercised over subordinate laboratory staff and is received from an administrative and/or section supervisor through conferences, case review and established laboratory procedures. May act as a crime scene team leader. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Supervises and conducts complex firearms identification examinations;

Supervises and conducts complex examinations to determine firing distance, caliber and possible type of suspect weapons;

Supervises and conducts examinations to restore obliterated serial numbers;

Supervises and compares ammunition and tool markings with available exemplars;

Supervises and assigns duties to subordinate laboratory staff;

May supervise and/or participate in section quality assurance activities and/or proficiency testing;

Supervises and evaluates new methods of analysis in order to assist in keeping section at "State of the Art" levels;

Issues signed reports of analyses 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 participate in crime scene investigations;

May act as a crime scene team leader in supervising staff at crime scene investigations, and directing the evaluation, collection, and documentation of evidence;

May receive, store, and release evidence;

May assist in the selection and purchase of scientific equipment; and may assist in maintaining inventory of chemicals and materials;

Gives testimony at a variety of legal proceedings regarding findings and observations;

Consults with administrative supervisor(s) regarding budgetary requirements, training, and quality assurance practices.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Comprehensive knowledge of microscopy, especially comparative techniques using various lighting techniques; comprehensive knowledge of the design, construction and operation of firearms and the types of ammunition; comprehensive knowledge of the safe operation of firearms; comprehensive knowledge of tool manufacture as it applies to the identification of tools and tool marks; comprehensive knowledge of modern laboratory methods, procedures and equipment; comprehensive knowledge of the rules of evidence and penal law as they relate to weapons evidence; skill in laboratory manipulative techniques; ability to train, supervise 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 of complex 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 five (5) years of professional* experience in forensic firearms examination; 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 six (6) years of professional* experience in forensic firearms examination; or,

c) Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Bachelor's Degree, and seven (7) years of professional* experience in forensic firearms examination.

NOTE: *Professional experience is defined as experience involving independent responsibility for the analysis of evidence or specimens, and includes the signing and issuing of reports. Qualifying experience must have been gained within the last twelve (12) years.

PROMOTIONAL

Two (2) years of permanent competitive status as a Forensic Scientist II (Firearms).

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 5/10/19

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive