CRIMINALIST

State of California • Sacramento, CA

43d • Onsite

About The Position

The Criminalist classification is an entry, training, and sub-journey level position. Criminalists perform routine and less complex biology and DNA examinations and analyses. They may assist higher-level Criminalists in scientific investigations and the examination of physical evidence at crime scenes. You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement. You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

Requirements

• To be appointed to this position as a Criminalist you must meet the minimum qualifications as stated in the class specifications, be eligible for transfer, reinstatement, or have current list eligibility.
• Candidates who have graduated from college with a major in one of the physical or biological sciences but do not have 3 semester hours of Quantitative Analysis will be admitted to the examination, but they must provide proof of completion of the 3 semester hours of Quantitative Analysis before they are eligible for appointment.
• To be appointed to this position as a Senior Criminalist you must be eligible for transfer, reinstatement, or have current list eligibility.
• The position(s) require(s) a fingerprint check prior to being hired.
• The position(s) requires that incumbents pass a Background Investigation prior to being hired. The Background Investigation may include Criminal Background and a review of any governmental records.
• The position requires that incumbents pass a Medical Evaluation. You will be required to submit to a Medical Evaluation and receive clearance prior to being hired.
• The position(s) require(s) you to complete and pass a Drug Screening test prior to being hired.
• You must submit a copy of your college transcripts and a copy of your college degree(s). Your transcripts must reflect the necessary course requirements as indicated in the Minimum Qualifications specifications. Official transcripts will be required upon appointment.
• Resume is required and must be included.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of: Scientific techniques and equipment used in the laboratory and at crime scenes; tests for the identity and comparison of blood and physiological fluids; tests for explosives and flammable materials; toxicological analyses; tests of hairs, fibers, glass, soil, paint, and similar materials, as well as the necessary equipment to conduct these tests; modern methods and techniques in investigations of major crimes; current trends in toxicology, general chemistry, and microchemistry; modern types of small arms and the techniques of conducting all types of firearms, bullet, and toolmark comparisons; methods used in the examination of documents in criminal cases; photographic and photomicrographic principles and practices as applied to criminalistics; chromatographic techniques; and modern office methods, supplies, and equipment.
• Ability to: Make extensive use of scientific methods and techniques at crime scenes; make effective use of microscopes, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and Capillary Electrophoresis; recognize the need for and develop and evaluate new test methods and procedures; analyze situations accurately and take effective action; conduct applied research to develop and validate state-of-the-art evidence examination techniques; testify effectively in court; instruct law enforcement and forensic personnel in criminalistics; consistently exercise a high degree of initiative, confidentiality, independence, good judgment, and flexibility while performing a wide variety of duties; adjust to changing priorities; work well under pressure; work effectively with all levels of staff and other state and local agencies; and keep good records.
• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• Statistics and/or Population Genetics

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees