Criminalist II (Forensic Biology)

City of New York•New York, NY

About The Position

The Office of Chief Medical Examiner investigates deaths in New York City that involve criminal violence, accidents, suicide, sudden death in apparent health, death without physician attendance, deaths in correctional facilities, suspicious or unusual circumstances, and cases involving applications for cremation permits. Under the general direction of the Assistant Directors of the Department of Forensic Biology and the supervision of a Criminalist IV, the Criminalist II assists with scientific analyses of biological specimens submitted to the department. The work includes examining evidence, interpreting DNA results, preparing reports and case files, supporting database submissions, reviewing records, and testifying about scientific findings. The position also involves participating in training, competency and proficiency testing, and quality assurance and quality control programs, while staying current with relevant technological advances. This is an essential position. During emergencies, it may require 24-hour availability. Candidates must provide college transcripts documenting successful completion, with grades of C or higher, of at least nine credit hours in specified biological sciences or related subjects that support understanding of forensic DNA analysis, as well as coursework in statistics or population genetics. These course requirements will be audited by the DNA Technical Leader. Selected candidates must provide a DNA sample by swabbing. Authorization to work in the United States is required before employment begins, though it is not required to apply. The City may be able to assist with employment-based visa sponsorship, but OCME does not guarantee sponsorship for visa applications, extensions, or status changes. Final appointments are subject to Office of Management and Budget approval.

Requirements

A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college, specializing in criminalistics, forensic science, chemistry, biology, physics, molecular genetics, genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, entomology, anthropology, ecology, or a closely related scientific or engineering field.
For Assignment Level II, one year of experience as a Criminalist at Assignment Level I-B; or two total years of qualifying experience in criminalistics or forensic science; or a satisfactory combination of education and experience totaling two years as described in the qualifications.
Successful completion, with a grade of C or higher, of at least nine credit hours in graduate- or undergraduate-level courses covering biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology (including molecular genetics or recombinant DNA technology), or other subjects providing an understanding of the foundation of forensic DNA analysis.
Successful completion of coursework covering statistics or population genetics.
Provide a DNA sample by swabbing if selected.
Authorization to work in the United States before employment begins.

Responsibilities

Locate and identify physiological material while examining swabs, sexual assault kits, and evidence submitted in connection with investigations.
Ensure the integrity of evidence and chain-of-custody forms.
Compile data and paperwork to create case files.
Interpret DNA test results.
Prepare and sign reports documenting scientific analysis results.
Prepare, distribute, and/or file scientific results and documents with appropriate laboratory staff or locations.
Develop, search, and submit DNA profiles for database entry.
Conduct technical and administrative reviews of written reports and case-file records for administratively closed, negative serology, and negative DNA cases.
Testify about scientific investigation results before grand juries and in civil and criminal jurisdictions.
Participate in competency and proficiency testing programs.
Participate in departmental quality assurance and quality control programs.
Participate in required training programs as determined by QA/QC, training, and supervisory staff.
Stay current with technological advances in areas of expertise.
Perform other duties as assigned.