Forensic Scientist IV – DNA Technical Leader

General Summary

Develops discipline-specific analytical methods and training plans; obtains and validates new technologies and procedures; provides training for analysts, law enforcement, and others. Establishes and maintains a quality system for the discipline that meets the requirements of the FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories. Conducts laboratory tests; performs analysis to compare and identify physical evidence; prepares technical reports; testifies in court proceedings; and collects, preserves, and transports physical evidence from crime scenes.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

SHIFT INFORMATION
Generally Monday - Friday, day shift hours, with option for 5 8-hour shifts or 4 10-hour shifts per week. Shares a rotational on-call status.

Essential Functions

• Oversees and is accountable for the DNA technical operations;
• Has the authorities and responsibilities delineated in the FBI QAS;
• Acts as, and appoints, a Casework CODIS Administrator or alternate;
• Creates and monitors discipline-specific quality guidance, analytical methods, and training plans;
• Validates new procedures and technologies (e.g., instruments, chemistries, and software);
• Awareness and evaluation of current and new discipline-related techniques and technologies;
• Evaluates discipline services and supplies;
• Directs annual quality system and case file reviews for the discipline
• Oversees and evaluates the training of analysts;
• Provides information and training for law enforcement, attorneys, and the public;

• Collects, secures, and maintains evidence, and keeps accurate records;
• Maintains safe chemical handling practices;
• Utilizes physical and chemical processes to identify and evaluate evidence;
• Analyzes scientific data to form opinions and interpretations;
• Responds to crime scenes; photographs, documents, and collects evidence;
• Maintains competency, prepares reports, and performs reviews in casework;

• Reviews technical and quality procedures;

• Testifies in court proceedings;
• Participates in annual proficiency testing, inventories, and internal audits.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS

• Assists with estimating budgetary requirements;
• Performs related functions as required.

Job Requirements

• Earned master’s degree higher from an accredited academic institution in a biology, chemistry, or forensic science-related area;

• Successful completion of coursework, as required by the FBI QAS:

• statistics or population genetics
• required coursework must include at least one graduate-level course

• Have at least three years of human DNA experience as a qualified forensic casework analyst;
• Completed or will complete the FBI’s DNA auditor training course;
• Holds or will obtain certification in at least one forensic specialty, preferably related to DNA analysis;
• Knowledge of the FBI QAS for DNA laboratories and international standards for laboratory accreditation;
• Knowledge of State, Federal, and County laws, rules, and ordinances, and knowledge of the criminal justice system;
• Knowledge of the scientific laboratory methods, equipment, processes, and procedures specific to crime scene and evidence analysis;
• Knowledge of hazards and safety practices associated with chemicals and infectious diseases;
• Skill in using modern office equipment;
• Ability to effectively respond to law enforcement officials, court officials, victims, and other members of the general public;
• Ability to perform duties independently and in a self-directed manner;
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions;
• Ability to interpret a variety of technical instructions;
• Ability to work accurately with attention to detail;
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with the assigned supervisor and others;
• Ability to understand directions and communicate verbally and in writing;
• Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation;
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle;
• Ability to perform complex mental functions for sustained periods of time;
• Have corrected vision (may not be colorblind) and hearing;
• Have sufficient manual dexterity and hand/eye coordination to operate laboratory and other related forensic equipment.

• Forensics-related certification;
• Experience performing audits to ISO/IEC 17025 or FBI QAS standards;
• Experience validating instrumentation and software related to DNA analysis;
• Experience working with next-generation sequencing (NGS);
• Experience using CODIS and knowledge of NDIS operating procedures and DNA eligibility requirements;
• Experience testifying as an expert or providing training on DNA analysis;
• Experience as a forensic discipline lead.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position requires the incumbent to work in an office environment, laboratory, and in the field;
• Incumbent may be subjected to a variety of chemicals and infectious diseases;
• Incumbent is required to respond to crime scenes and be exposed to unpleasant situations and environments;

• Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs.