Criminalist Firearms Examiner II

City of Aurora

10d•$80,018 - $100,022•Onsite

About The Position

The Firearms Examiner II analyzes forensic evidence through a variety of firearms examination methods. The role conducts examinations of firearms and related evidence, documents and reports findings, testifies as an expert witness when needed, and completes routine through highly complex or priority casework. The examiner also supports quality assurance, laboratory accreditation, training, and development of standard operating procedures. Before being authorized as an independent firearms examiner, the successful candidate must complete a modified in-house training program. The position works primarily in an office and laboratory environment and may involve exposure to biohazard contamination, chemicals, odors, and noise. It is essential personnel during a city-declared emergency or disaster. The position requires a valid Colorado Driver’s License and may occasionally require use of personal equipment such as a vehicle, cell phone, or tools.

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 may be considered.
Successful completion of a documented firearms examiner training plan similar in scope to the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners training manual, approximately two years in length.
Three years of experience as a firearms examiner in a law enforcement laboratory or directly related environment.
Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License.
Deep working knowledge of scientific procedures and equipment used in firearms examination.
Deep working knowledge of safe chemical handling practices and firearm safety.
Deep working knowledge of investigative methods and techniques.
Deep working knowledge of rules of evidence and court testimony.
Deep working knowledge of accreditation requirements and forensic testing standards.
Advanced skill in applying analytical instrumentation and microscopy.
Expert communication and/or testimony on scientific matters and forensic findings to peers, law enforcement, and the court.
Proficiency in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for evidence tracking and documentation.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to use critical thinking and sound reasoning.
Ability to organize and prioritize work.
Ability to work independently of direct supervision.
Must pass a thorough criminal background check; safety-sensitive position applicants must also pass drug screening as a condition of employment.

Nice To Haves

Certification by the Association of Firearms and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE).

Responsibilities

Documents and protects evidence according to laboratory procedures while maintaining chain of custody.
Prepares reagents and standards used for processing and verifies their performance.
Maintains Firearms Unit reference collections and orders materials.
Performs basic instrument maintenance and quality checks.
Ensures work quality and compliance with ISO 17025:2017 standards.
Performs mechanical function examinations of pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns, and safely test fires firearms.
Performs 3D topographic scanning acquisitions of fired cartridge cases for entry into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
Evaluates image correlation results to identify and disseminate NIBIN leads.
Performs serial number restorations.
Examines firearms and related evidence, including fired cartridge cases, fired shot shells, shotshell components, bullets, and unfired ammunition.
Evaluates and microscopically compares fired evidence components to determine whether they were fired from the same firearm, the number of firearms involved, or whether they were fired from a particular seized firearm.
Generates well-documented casework consistent with forensic laboratory standards and accreditation requirements.
Issues reports regarding evidence analysis.
Testifies as an expert witness in municipal, state, and federal courts as necessary.
Performs verifications and technical and administrative reviews of casework.
Participates in continuing education relevant to firearms examination.
Completes routine to highly complex or priority firearms examination requests.
Trains junior examiners and provides in-service training for investigators, attorneys, and external partners.
Contributes to SOP development, laboratory accreditation, internal audits, and quality assurance protocols.
May perform scientific research or validations.
Completes a modified in-house training program before authorization as an independent firearms examiner.
Performs other duties as assigned.