DPS - CLD - Forensic Scientist I-VI - Friction Ridge - 6052-6054 - Austin, United States - State of Texas

Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Forensic Scientist I - Friction RidgePerforms (entry-level) training on laboratory tests, analyses, classifications, comparisons and identifications/associations of all types of physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above.

Training involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results and preparing written opinion reports. Trains on testimony as an expert witness in court as to results of analyses. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Forensic Scientist II - Friction RidgePerforms routine (journey-level) forensic science work.

Work involves conducting laboratory tests, conducting analyses, and identifying all types of physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above.

Work involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court.

Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Forensic Scientist III - Friction RidgePerforms moderately complex (journey-level) forensic science work.

Work involves conducting laboratory analyses on database samples or physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above.

Work involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court.

Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Forensic Scientist IV - Friction RidgePerforms moderately complex (journey-level) forensic science work.

Work involves conducting laboratory analyses on database samples or physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above.

Work involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court.

Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Forensic Scientist V - Friction RidgePerforms moderately complex (journey-level) forensic science work.

Work involves conducting laboratory analyses on database samples or physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above.

Work involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court.

Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Forensic Scientist VI - Friction RidgePerforms moderately complex (journey-level) forensic science work.

Work involves conducting laboratory analyses on database samples or physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above.

Work involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court.

Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position. Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:
Forensic Scientist I - Friction Ridge1.

Develops communication skills sufficient to communicate effectively with our agencies and other customers regarding sensitive information related to the offense and/or analyses being done.2.

Learns how to use the laboratory information management system (LIMS) for purposes of evidentiary documentation, chain of custody, analysis, and other metrics within the laboratory.3.

Learns how to prepare reports concerning the preliminary and final results of each analyses performed.4.

Learns how to represent the discipline and the results of analysis in testimony and may serve as an expert witness in court.5.

Trains in the friction ridge examination techniques and procedures utilized during the examination of physical evidence including physical, chemical, and optical techniques, or any combination of techniques.6.

Trains in the proper use of laboratory equipment, digital imaging equipment, and applicable software programs for the development, preservation, and digital image processing of friction ridge detail.7.

Trains in the Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification (ACE-V) methodology.8.

Evaluates submission forms and physical evidence to determine the correct approach for the examination of evidentiary items for friction ridge detail.9.

Prepares reagents for use in friction ridge development.10. Utilizes lighting techniques, physical techniques, and chemical techniques to observe and/or develop friction ridge detail on evidentiary items.11. Preserves latent, patent, and plastic prints utilizing digital imaging equipment.12. Digitally processes preserved friction ridge detail utilizing Foray ADAMS software and Adobe Photoshop.13. Analyzes latent, patent, and plastic prints for suitability.14. Compares friction ridge detail to exemplar prints and formulate accurate evaluation conclusions.15. Coordinates with AFIS forensic scientist to have automated searches performed on unidentified prints.16. Prepares detailed work product/documentation to include all observations and activities made, analyses performed, and conclusions reached.17. Completes proficiency tests as required.18. Maintains awareness of current research within the friction ridge discipline.19. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with the agency leave and attendance policies 20. Performs other duties as assigned.
Forensic Scientist II - Friction Ridge1.

Receives and returns evidence items and completes proper forms according to strict transfer procedures to guarantee and maintain the integrity of accepted chain of evidence for each item.2.

Contacts various law enforcement officials and others to obtain and/or provide information related to offense to which provided evidence items are relevant.3.

Performs friction ridge examination techniques and procedures during the examination of physical evidence including physical, chemical, and optical techniques, or any combination of techniques.4.

Proper use of laboratory equipment, digital imaging equipment, and applicable software programs for the development, preservation, and digital image processing of friction ridge detail.5.

Follows Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification (ACE-V) methodology.6.

Utilizes the laboratory information management system (LIMS) to document chain of custody and to document evidence items received into the laboratory for friction ridge examination.7.

Evaluates submission forms and physical evidence to determine the correct approach for the examination of submitted evidence for friction ridge detail.8.

Prepares reagents for use in friction ridge development.9. Utilizes lighting techniques, physical techniques, and chemical techniques to observe and/or develop friction ridge detail on evidentiary items.10. Preserves latent, patent, and plastic prints utilizing digital imaging equipment.11. Digitally processes preserved friction ridge detail utilizing Foray ADAMS software and Adobe Photoshop.12. Analyzes latent, patent, and plastic prints for suitability.13. Compares friction ridge detail to exemplar prints and formulate accurate evaluation conclusions.14. Coordinates with AFIS forensic scientist to have automated searches performed on unidentified prints.15. Prepares detailed worksheets to include all observations and activities made, analyses performed, and conclusions reached.16. Completes verification, technical review, and proficiency tests as required.17. Maintains awareness of current research within the friction ridge discipline.18. Prepares preliminary and final reports concerning results of each analysis performed.19. Serves as an expert witness in court.20. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.21. Performs other duties as assigned.
Forensic Scientist III - VI - Friction Ridge1.

Receives and returns evidence items and completes proper forms according to strict transfer procedures to guarantee and maintain the integrity of accepted chain of evidence for each item or handles individual characteristic database samples following relevant procedures.2.

Contacts various law enforcement officials, and others to obtain and/or provide information related to offense to which provided evidence items are relevant.3.

Prepares preliminary and/or final reports concerning results of each analysis performed.4. Serves as an expert witness in court.5. Researches forensic science field and studies current material in scientific journals regarding new advances and techniques in forensic examinations.6. Lectures to or instructs law enforcement groups, schools, and others at the discretion of, or, in absence of supervisor.7. Represents the Department at conferences and meetings.8. Maintains professional contact with nationwide forensic examiners.9.

Performs more exacting and intricate examinations in most difficult cases and assists and teaches other examiners in the more difficult examinations.10.

Performs friction ridge examination techniques and procedures during the examination of physical evidence including physical, chemical, and optical techniques, or any combination of techniques.11.

Conducts proper use of laboratory equipment, digital imaging equipment, and applicable software programs for the development, preservation, and digital image processing of friction ridge detail.12.

Follows Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification (ACE-V) methodology.13.

Utilizes the laboratory information management system (LIMS) to document chain of custody and to document evidence items received into the laboratory for friction ridge examination.14.

Evaluates submission forms and physical evidence to determine the correct approach for the examination of submitted evidence for friction ridge detail.15.

Prepares reagents for use in friction ridge development.16. Utilizes lighting techniques, physical techniques, and chemical techniques to observe and/or develop friction ridge detail on evidentiary items.17. Preserves latent, patent, and plastic prints utilizing digital imaging equipment.18. Digitally processes preserved friction ridge detail utilizing Foray ADAMS software and Adobe Photoshop.19. Analyzes latent, patent, and plastic prints for suitability.20. Compares friction ridge detail to exemplar prints and formulate accurate evaluation conclusions.21. Coordinates with AFIS forensic scientist to have automated searches performed on unidentified prints.22. Prepares detailed worksheets to include all observations and activities made, analyses performed, and conclusions reached.23. Completes verification, technical review, and proficiency tests as required.24. Maintains awareness of current research within the friction ridge discipline.25. Assists in training technical personnel in laboratory procedures, as assigned.26. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.27. Performs other duties as assigned.


Qualifications GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS:

Education - Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in a natural science, mathematics, forensic science, or related fields.

One year experience performing friction ridge comparisons (ten-print or latent print) may substitute for the major area of the Bachelor's Degree.*Forensic science programs must be either FEPAC-accredited OR meet the minimum curriculum requirements pertaining to natural science core courses and specialized science courses set forth in the FEPAC Accreditation Standards.

Testing:
Candidates will be required to take and pass tests associated with pattern matching skills.

Experience - Forensic Scientist I - Friction RidgeNoneForensic Scientist II – Friction RidgeA minimum of two years' of full-time work experience as a Forensic Scientist I or the equivalent experience in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline.

Documented completion of the training program.

Forensic Scientist III – Friction RidgeA minimum of two years' of work experience as a Forensic Scientist II in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline.

Documented completion of the training program.

Forensic Scientist IV – Friction RidgeA minimum of eight years' of work experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline and successful completion of a promotional exam with oral board.

Documented completion of the training program.

Forensic Scientist V – Friction RidgeA minimum of sixteen years' of work experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline and successful completion of the Forensic Scientist IV promotional exam with oral board.

Documented completion of the training program.

Forensic Scientist VI – Friction RidgeA minimum of twenty years' work experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited crime laboratory in in the same respective forensic discipline and successful completion of the Forensic Scientist IV promotional exam with oral board.

Documented completion of the training program.
Licensure and/or Certification – Must possess a valid driver license from state of residence.

Must have a forensic analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission if required by the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Regulatory Knowledge – Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures.

Forensic Science – Thorough knowledge of principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline; of understanding of identification principles.

Knowledge of safety procedures for handling hazardous chemicals; of proper evidence handling procedures. Skill in use of laboratory equipment and materials.


Ability to:

• Coordinate the handling of evidence between sections;
• Recommend improvements in methodology and equipment to management;
• Communicate findings, orally and in writing, in a clear, concise and effective manner;
• Conduct microscopic examinations requiring accuracy and concentration when relevant;
• Conduct testing used in examination of evidence;
• Testify in court as an expert witness.

Interpersonal Skills – Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers.

Ability to work effectively with laboratory, legal, and law enforcement personnel.

Organizational and Prioritization Skills – Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism.

Presentation/Communication Skills – Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations to a variety of audiences and/or individuals.

Research and Comprehension – Must demonstrate ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information, and be able to utilize and/or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner.

Analytical Reasoning/Attention to Detail – Must demonstrate an ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and be able identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems.

Technology (computers/hardware/software/operating systems) – Must possess appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems and be able to learn new software/systems.

Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).Confidentiality and Protected Information – Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations, and adhere to applicable laws/statutes/policies related to access, maintenance and dissemination of information.

Safety – Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results/risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices.

Travel and/or Schedule – Availability for after-hour and weekend work, on occasion, may be required.


PHYSICAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and/or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Environment:
Office, Laboratory;

• Ambulatory skills, e.g. stand, walk, sit;
• Hand-eye coordination and arm/hand/finger dexterity;
• Ability to exercise visual acuity, e.g., stereoscopic vision sufficient to perform detailed work, perceive minute differences and details, and ability to withstand the strain of continued close work;
• Ability to speak; hear; and exercise visual acuity to perceive minute differences/details, and to withstand the strain of continued close work. Stereoscopic vision sufficient to perform detailed work;
• Ability to transfer weights of twenty-five pounds anticipated for this position;

Driving requirements:
Moderate frequency (10%).