Forensic Scientist Manager

Job Code: 32000084
Salary Grade: NC22
Revision Date: 06/2019

Class Concept

This is managerial, supervisory, administrative and professional work in directing sections responsible for the examination and analysis of forensic evidence. Positions plan, direct, review and evaluate the work of subordinates; approve recommended method and technique changes; research and develop new methodology; and review all reports for accuracy, content and consistency with laboratory standards. Positions normally perform some of the more complex, controversial or advanced casework; review, evaluate and make the final technical decision on the most complex, high profile or controversial cases; operate with nearly complete technical independence; and are recognized as the top technical expert in their discipline of forensic science. Work includes testifying in court or at hearings as a technical expert, conducting consultations and participating in pretrial conferences with prosecutors and defense attorneys, and providing guidance to law enforcement officers in the collection and preservation of document evidence. Positions develop and oversee a law enforcement training program including formal class instruction, demonstrations and laboratory tours. Positions determine which requested crime scenes to investigate and handle and document all evidence under stringent chain of custody rules. Guidelines and references are normally broad and non-specific and include legislation, laws, regulations, general objectives and mission statements. Work may include other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, concepts, theories, reference sources and laboratory practices involved with the forensic examination of evidence.
• Thorough knowledge of criminal law and of the rules and regulations regarding evidence gathering and handling.
• Thorough knowledge of scientific methodology and of laboratory safety practices.
• Ability to perform and record complex standardized and non-standardized laboratory tests and procedures.
• Ability to analyze results, and interpret methodology and to understand and solve theoretical problems.
• Ability to express technical information clearly both orally and in writing when reporting results, testifying or explaining procedures to others.
• Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to perceive colors normally and make olfactory distinctions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to supervise and evaluate the work of subordinates.

Minimum Education and Experience

Drug Chemistry/Toxicology - Bachelor's degree with a major in chemistry, toxicology, pharmaceutical science with chemistry concentration (organic, inorganic, analytical or physical), forensic science (with concentration in chemistry or toxicology), biochemistry, pharmacology or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and seven years of experience performing bench level analysis in drug chemistry / toxicology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Latent Evidence - Bachelor's degree with a major in forensic science, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physical science, criminal justice or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and seven years of experience performing bench level analysis in latent evidence; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Digital Evidence - Bachelor's degree with a major in computer science, digital forensics, networking, information technology, cyber technology, criminal justice; or forensic science or multi-media studies with coursework in computer science or information technology; or biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry and other science degrees (if degree includes significant coursework in computer science or information technology); or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution including coursework in science; and seven years of experience performing bench level analysis in digital evidence; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Trace Evidence - Bachelor's degree with a major in chemistry, textile chemistry, physical science, forensic science with chemistry concentration (organic, inorganic, analytical, physical), biochemistry, forensic anthropology or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and seven years of experience performing bench level analysis in trace evidence; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Firearms & Tool Marks - Bachelor's degree with a major in forensic science, chemistry, biology, physical science (physics), mechanical engineering, criminal justice or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and seven years of experience performing bench level analysis in firearms and tool marks; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Forensic Biology - Bachelor's degree with a major in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, animal science, zoology, medical technology, forensic science with biology/DNA concentration, or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution including coursework in biochemistry, genetic, molecular biology, statistics and population genetics and seven years of experience performing bench level analysis in forensic biology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

Digital Evidence - Must obtain individual certification consistent with international and ISO standards within eighteen months of the date the analyst becomes eligible to seek certification according to the standards of the certifying entity. Such vendor-neutral certifications may include: Certified Computer Forensic Examiner (CFCE) – International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists, Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) – International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners Digital Forensics Certified Practitioner (DFCP) – Digital Forensics Certification Board (requires a minimum 5 years of verified experience prior to sitting for the exam), Global Information Assurance Certification Forensic Examiner (GCFE) – SANS Institute, Certified Video Technician (CFVT) – Law Enforcement & Emergency Service Video Association (requires a minimum of 3 years of verified experience prior to sitting for the exam), Certified Forensic Video Examiner (CFVE) – International Association for Identification (requires a minimum of 3-5 years of verified experience depending on applicant's education level)

General - Must obtain individual certification consistent with international and ISO standards within eighteen months of the date the analyst becomes eligible to seek certification according to the standards of the certifying entity.