Criminalist I, Chemical Analysis (8259) - San Francisco Police Department
About The Position
Under general supervision, the Criminalist I in Chemical Analysis receives on-the-job training in the examination and identification of chemical substances and the performance of basic chemical analytical tests. The Criminalist I initially trains in foundational chemical analysis procedures, including evidence screening, reagent preparation, sample handling, and routine instrument operation and maintenance. As training progresses, the Criminalist I is assigned routine laboratory duties and, once fully trained, advances to increasingly complex chemical analysis tasks and participates in chemical analysis casework.
Requirements
- Possession of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in criminalistics, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related physical science field.
- Course work must include 8 semester units of chemistry with lab and 8 units of organic chemistry with lab.
- Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrated interest in forensic chemistry or criminalistics through coursework, internships, workshops, or participation in professional development activities.
- Familiarity with chemical analysis principles such as chromatography, spectrophotometry, or other instrumental methods used in forensic testing.
- Experience documenting laboratory observations, maintaining notes, and preparing technical summaries with attention to accuracy and detail.
Responsibilities
- Retrieves evidence from crime scenes, property control and/or medical examiner's office or from other custodians following established chain of custody procedures.
- Preserves evidence following established laboratory standards by inventorying, documenting, and safekeeping evidence.
- Complies with established quality control procedures to ensure proper functioning and maintenance of laboratory equipment and reagents, trains lab staff and officers in its use.
- Adheres to established safety standards in the preparation, storage and disposal of chemicals to ensure personal safety and validity of the scientific process.
- Documents case observations and interpretations through detailed notes, photographs, sketches, charts, etc.
- Prepares and participates in the review of technical reports on interpretation of case examinations.
- Uses and maintains highly technical laboratory instruments and equipment.
- Presents court testimony as an expert witness concerning conclusions drawn from laboratory examinations and analyses.
- Identifies controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, pharmaceuticals, and others.
- Assists in the breath alcohol analysis and instrumental support.
- Participates in proficiency testing to comply with national quality assurance standards.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Employee Benefits Overview
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
