Forensic Scientist-Firearm Tool Mark SCT, SCI, SCII, 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 Firearm / Tool Marks; 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 Firearm and Tool Mark SCT– Trainee:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
Successful completion of the APD FS - Firearm/Tool Mark Training Program before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels.
Successful completion of the Competency Exams and/or Mock Trials before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels.

Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark I SC1 – 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.

Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark 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.

Forensic Scientist Firearm and Tool Mark 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 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

• Fundamental examinations conducted by Firearms and Tool Marks
• Fundamental theories and techniques of firearm and tool mark examinations and related duties
• Fundamental stereo and comparison microscopes, assorted accessories and equipment used in the Laboratory
• Fundamental assorted firearms, firearms safety, and their function
• Fundamental assorted ammunition brands and their components
• Operations, services, procedures and activities of a forensic laboratory
• Fundamental methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and evaluation
• Fundamental 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
• Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE)
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)

Preferred Skills & Abilities

• Maintain appropriate visual discrimination and perception needed for making observations
• 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
• 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
• Communicate clearly and concisely
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation