Forensic Scientist I

City of Austin•Austin, TX

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of independent judgment, this position performs entry-level forensic science work in one of the following disciplines within the Austin Forensic Science Department: Crime Scene, Firearms/Toolmarks, Forensic Biology/DNA, Latent Prints, Seized Drugs, or Toxicology. As a key member of the Austin Forensic Science Latent Print Section, this position applies comprehensive knowledge and modern forensic principles, practices, and procedures to objectively analyze, compare and evaluate latent print related evidence. Support our mission in the pursuit of truth through science and outstanding service to the legal system and community of Austin. Come be part of the Austin Forensic Science Latent Print Team as we implement the latest discipline technology.

Requirements

Graduation with at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in a field related to the job.
Color vision acuity for select disciplines.
Knowledge of basic theory, principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline.
Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures.
Skill in use of laboratory instruments, equipment, and materials.
Skill in oral and written communications.
Skill in using computers and related software applications.
Ability to work in hazardous working conditions, including situations where there is a danger to life, body, and/or health, exposure to hazardous/toxic chemicals, exposure to biological fluids and blood-borne diseases, and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Ability to establish and maintain effective communication with City employees and the public.
Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
Must pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility.
The top candidate must pass a comprehensive pre-employment background investigation that will be comprised of: Drug Screen Criminal Background Check Background History Check (comprehensive record record check).

Nice To Haves

Experience conducting latent print comparisons in an accredited forensic testing laboratory.
Experience conducting latent print inquiries with the use of an Automated Fingerprint Identification System (local, state or federal) in an accredited forensic testing laboratory.
Forensic Analyst License from the Texas Forensic Science Commission as/ if required by the Code of Criminal Procedure Title 1 Chapter 38.01 for the posted discipline, within twelve (12) months of hire.
Any deficiency in degree or coursework requirement for the Forensic Analyst License must be obtained at personal expense and prior to applying for the license.

Responsibilities

Performs and successfully completes (entry-level) training on evidence collection/control, laboratory processing, laboratory tests, analyses, classifications, comparisons and/or identifications/associations of all types of physical crime scene evidence applicable and specific to the forensic discipline.
Demonstrates competency in areas trained, successfully completes supervised casework.
Creates and maintains accurate and contemporaneous training records, forensic reports, records, and documents.
Learns how to effectively represent the discipline, associated results of analyses/examinations and other forensic work products in testimony.
May serve as an expert witness in court.
Learns the requirements of and adheres to the Quality Management System, including adherence to forensic practitioner professional standards as defined by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
Performs entry-level forensic work in the discipline and areas authorized; such as evidence collection, documentation, processing, analysis, and associated reporting.
Responds to crime scenes and participates in 24/7 on-call rotations if required (applicable only to Crime Scene and Firearms and Toolmarks disciplines)
Receives, evaluates, and maintains custody of latent fingerprints.
Utilizes various comparison techniques.
Conducts computer database searches.
Utilizes methods and equipment for the enhancement of latent print evidence.
Writes, drafts and completes reports.
Provides documentation of analysis.
Provides information to investigative units on the status of latent print evidence.
Testifies in court as an expert witness.