ASSISTANT TOXICOLOGIST                                                  2830

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class assists in planning, organizing and directing the operation of a toxicology laboratory. The incumbent coordinates analytical, training and quality control programs in order to maximize services to the user agencies. Supervision is exercised over a professional, subprofessional and clerical staff, and is received from the Chief-Toxicology Laboratory.  The incumbent may also be called upon to perform complex analyses of body tissues and fluids.  Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

            Reviews performance of various sections in order to determine timeliness and reliability of services delivered;

            Supervises the external proficiency testing programs of the Toxicology Laboratory;

            Recommends and participates in the establishment of policies relating to the Toxicology Laboratory’s interaction with user agencies;

            Participates in the assessment of the Toxicology Laboratory budget needs and helps prepare budget requests;

            Testifies in court or other legal proceedings as an expert witness;

            May conduct complex scientific examinations of body tissues and/or fluids;

            Coordinates all training programs given by and to the Toxicology Laboratory personnel.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Thorough knowledge of modern, full service toxicology laboratory operation, including laboratory techniques, methods and instrumentation; thorough knowledge of supervisory methods; thorough knowledge of trends, developments and literature in the field of forensic science; ability to interpret scientifically derived data and prepare accurate and concise reports; ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; ability to direct activities of professional, technical and clerical personnel in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with federal, state and local agencies and with the general public; tact; good judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

            OPEN COMPETITIVE

            Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Master's Degree in one of the natural (chemistry, biology, physics) or forensic sciences, toxicology, or pharmacology, and six (6) years of professional experience* in forensic science, three (3) years of which must have been in a supervisory capacity** in a toxicology laboratory.

 

*Professional experience is defined as experience involving independent responsibility for the analysis of evidence or specimens, and includes signing and issuing reports.

 

**Supervisory capacity is defined as responsibility for professional and sub-professional personnel in technical and administrative functions.

 

NOTE: Qualifying experience must have been gained within the last ten (10) years.

                                                                                                       

            PROMOTIONAL

            Three (3) years of permanent competitive status as a Forensic Scientist III (Toxicology).

 

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

            Depending upon assignment, possession of a professional license and registration, issued by the New York State Education Department, as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist will be required.  Candidates must maintain the license/certification during employment in the assignment.

            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.

 

R12/1/06

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive

Review 7/23/15