What are the responsibilities and job description for the Ballistics Analyst position at Adams County Sheriff's Office, Colorado?
The Adams County Sheriff's Office is excited to add a new position to the Detective Division Forensic Lab Team. The Ballistics Analyst will be responsible for the scientific analysis, comparison and classification of firearms, ammunition, toolkits, and related evidence submitted to the Forensic Science Unit. The Analyst will: conduct comprehensive examinations of firearms, ammunition, cartridge cases, bullets, toolmarks, and other ballistic-related evidence; and conduct serial number restoration, distance determination (gunshot residue patterns) and trajectory analysis.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES FOR SUCCESS
- 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.
- 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 while maintaining strict chain-of-custody, evidence handling protocols, and adherence to safety procedures.
- 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.
- 3 years previous laboratory experience in a forensic setting is strongly preferred.
- Combination of education and experience equivalent to 7 years is required
- Valid Colorado Driver's License required