Criminalist Firearms Examiner I

City of Aurora

10d • $75,267 - $94,083 • Onsite

About The Position

The Firearms Examiner I analyzes forensic evidence using methods related to firearms examinations. The examiner completes simple to moderate casework under the general guidance of experienced examiners and/or the Technical Leader, and must successfully complete an approximately two-year comprehensive training program before authorization to work as an independent firearms examiner.

The role examines firearms and associated evidence, including fired cartridge cases, fired shotshells and components, bullets, and unfired ammunition. Work includes mechanical function examinations and safe test-firing of firearms; 3D topographic scanning of fired cartridge cases for NIBIN entry; evaluating image-correlation results to identify and disseminate NIBIN leads; serial number restoration; and microscopic comparisons to assess whether evidence was fired from the same or a particular firearm. The examiner documents and protects evidence, maintains chain of custody, prepares and verifies reagents and standards, performs basic instrument maintenance and quality checks, and maintains the Firearms Unit reference collections.

The position generates documented casework that meets forensic laboratory and accreditation standards, including ISO 17025:2017; issues reports; conducts casework verifications and reviews; and may testify as an expert witness in municipal, state, and federal courts. The examiner also participates in continuing education and performs other assigned duties.

The position is based primarily in an office and laboratory environment, with exposure to biohazards, chemicals, odors, and noise. It may require occasional use of personal equipment such as a vehicle, cell phone, or tools. City employees may be required to work as essential personnel during a declared emergency or disaster. The hiring salary range is $75,267–$94,083 annually.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in forensic science, a physical or natural science, or a directly related field from an accredited college or university; an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
• No experience is required.
• Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license.
• General knowledge of scientific procedures and equipment used in firearms examination.
• General knowledge of safe chemical handling practices and firearm safety.
• General knowledge of investigative methods and techniques.
• General knowledge of rules of evidence and court testimony.
• General knowledge of accreditation requirements and forensic testing standards.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and communication skills.
• Basic application of analytical instrumentation and microscopy.
• Ability to explain scientific matters and forensic findings effectively to peers, law enforcement, and the court.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships; use critical thinking and sound reasoning; organize and prioritize work; and work independently of direct supervision.
• Ability to move no more than 50 pounds, with or without assistance, at a time.
• Frequent hand/eye coordination to operate a computer, laboratory instruments, and other testing instruments; occasional standing and walking; and visual acuity correctable to 20/40 with no color impairment to interpret data.

Nice To Haves

• Coursework or an internship focused on firearms- and toolmarks-specific applications.
• Completed training in NIBIN or firearms and toolmarks examination at an accredited laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Complete simple to moderate-level firearms evidence casework under general guidance of experienced examiners and/or the Technical Leader.
• Document and protect evidence according to laboratory procedures and maintain chain of custody.
• Prepare reagents and standards used for processing and verify their performance.
• Maintain Firearms Unit reference collections and order materials.
• Perform basic instrument maintenance and quality checks.
• Ensure work quality and compliance with ISO 17025:2017 standards.
• Perform mechanical function examinations of pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns, and safely test-fire firearms.
• Perform 3D topographic scanning acquisitions of fired cartridge cases for entry into NIBIN.
• Evaluate image-correlation results to identify and disseminate NIBIN leads.
• Perform serial number restorations.
• Examine firearms and related evidence, including fired cartridge cases, fired shotshells and components, bullets, and unfired ammunition.
• Microscopically compare fired evidence components to determine whether they were fired from the same firearm(s), the number of firearms involved, and/or whether they were fired from a particular seized firearm.
• Generate well-documented casework consistent with forensic laboratory standards and accreditation requirements.
• Issue reports regarding evidence analysis.
• Testify as an expert witness in municipal, state, and federal courts as necessary.
• Perform verifications and technical and administrative reviews of casework.
• Participate in continuing education relevant to firearms examination.
• Successfully complete the comprehensive training program, approximately two years in duration, before authorization as an independent firearms examiner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package.
• Well-funded General Employees Retirement Plan.
• On-site fitness center and employee well-being programs.
• Internal educational programs to assist with career advancement.
• Access to innovation workspaces.
• The city will implement scheduled unpaid furlough days in 2026 for most employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level