Ballistics Analyst

What Success Looks Like In This Job

• Responsible for the scientific analysis, comparison and classification of firearms, ammunition, toolkits, and related evidence submitted to the Forensic Science Unit. Conduct comprehensive examinations of firearms, ammunition, cartridge cases, bullets, toolmarks, and other ballistic-related evidence. Conduct serial number restoration, distance determination (gunshot residue patterns) and trajectory analysis.
• Supports criminal investigations by identifying, documenting, and interpreting ballistic evidence by providing expert technical reports and offering courtroom testimony.
• Ballistics Analyst works closely with detectives, prosecutors, criminalists, and other partner agencies to ensure high-quality forensic services that meet professional accreditations standards.

Examples of Duties for Success

• Perform microscopic comparisons to determine firearm identification, caliber, class characteristics, and potential weapon associations.
• Test-fire submitted firearms, document function, and collect comparison samples. Perform muzzle to target distance determinations.
• Maintain and operate laboratory instrumentation, including comparison microscopes, ballistic recovery systems, imaging tools, and gunshot residue testing equipment.
• Enter and review evidence in the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) or other ballistic imaging systems; generate leads for investigators.
• Attend crime scenes as needed to assist with ballistic evidence identification, collection and reconstruction.

• Assist with the development and revision of standard operating procedures related to firearms and toolmark examinations.
• Participate in quality assurance proficiency testing, peer review, and continuing education to maintain technical competency and provide training and technical guidance to investigators, prosecutors, and agency personnel on firearms evidence, safety and best practices.
• Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications for Success

• Bachelor’s degree in forensic science, Physical Science, Criminalistics, or related scientific field preferred.
• Combination of education and experience equivalent to 7 years REQUIRED
• 3 years previous laboratory experience in a forensic setting is strongly preferred.
• Valid Colorado Driver's License Required

More Qualifications for Success

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Adams County and the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office complies with Colorado’s Job Application Fairness Act (“JAFA”). JAFA prohibits employers from asking individuals to disclose their age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation on an initial employment application. However, additional application materials such as certifications and transcripts containing this information may be required for certain positions; if such additional materials are requested, applicants may redact information that identifies the applicant’s age, date of birth, or dates or attendance or graduation.