Forensic Scientist-Biology SCT, SCI, SCII and SCIII

Position Summary

Identify, examine, analyze, evaluate and interpret evidence in the investigation of crimes; use forensic science in the analysis of evidence in order to reach scientific conclusions in the area of Biology/DNA; effectively communicate results and findings, verbally and in writing, to the appropriate parties.

Refer to the Crime Laboratory Director's chart of standards for specific qualifying criteria.

This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA SCT – Trainee:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.
Successful completion of the APD FS - Biology/DNA Training Program before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels.
Successful completion of the APD FS - Competency Exams and/or Mock Trials before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels.

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA I SCI – Entry Level:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and
One (1) year of examination training and/or casework.
Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA II SC2 – Journeyman Level:
Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and
Three (3) years of examination training and/or casework; OR

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and
Five (5) years of examination training and/or casework.
Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

Forensic Scientist Biology/DNA III SC3 - Advanced Level:
Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and
Eight (8) years of examination training and/or casework; OR

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and
Ten (10) years of examination training and/or casework.
Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

Refer to the Crime Laboratory Director's chart of standards for specific qualifying criteria.

Preferred Knowledge

• All areas of examinations conducted by a Biology/DNA unit
• Theories and techniques of Biology/DNA examinations and related duties
• Advanced molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics principles
• Stereo and comparison microscopes, assorted accessories and equipment used in the Laboratory
• Understand, in detail, the principles and use of current DNA analysis as applied to forensic science
• Use of Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)
• Operations, services, procedures and activities of a forensic laboratory
• Crime scene investigations
• Methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and evaluation
• Operation of forensic instruments, equipment and tools
• Operation of basic power and hand tools
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices
• Pertinent Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations
• Computers and various programs and data bases
• Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM)
• Association of Forensic DNA Analysts and Administrators (AFDAA)
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
• American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors - Laboratory accreditation Board, and other applicable quality assurance standards

Preferred Skills & Abilities

• Define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
• Recognize anomalies, formulate hypotheses and take appropriate action
• Perform forensic evidence collection, identification and analysis
• Operate a variety of forensic laboratory equipment and instruments in a safe and effective manner
• Work independently in the absence of supervision
• Prepare complex technical written and verbal reports
• Follow verbal and written instructions
• Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships
• Identify similarities and differences between shades, colors, shapes, sounds, forms, textures or physical appearance associated with job related objects, materials and tasks
• Interpret a variety of technical instructions
• Plan, organize and coordinate work assignments
• Communicate clearly and concisely
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation