Forensic Scientist Supervisor, Firearms Analysis Unit - Baltimore Police Department

Baltimore City•Baltimore, MD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Welcome to the City of Baltimore! Experience the reward of a fulfilling career and enjoy the added element of excitement in a vibrant, diverse atmosphere. The City of Baltimore offers limitless opportunities to help drive social impact, both on the job and in the community, while serving its citizens. Join us in making Baltimore a great place to live and work. In the City of Baltimore, we hire great people and provide them with the skills and opportunities to grow toward their career aspirations. If you are looking for a career change or interested in learning more, explore our opportunities and benefits programs. We are excited to have you as a part of the City of Baltimore Team! The city offers medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans. This office also supplies wellness programs, support groups, and workshops. You can learn about our benefits here: https://humanresources.baltimorecity.gov/hr-divisions/benefits A Forensic Scientist Supervisor supervises subordinate staff engaged in the analyses of a variety of laboratory tests and comparative analyses in such specialized forensic discipline as controlled dangerous substances, toxicology, serology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and tool mark, questioned documents or latent print examination. Work of this class involves supervising the activities of Forensic Scientists personnel. Incumbents receive general supervision from a technical supervisor. Employees in this class work a rotating shift and are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Work is performed in a laboratory where there is exposure to toxic fumes and chemicals, unknown dangerous substances and sharp laboratory instruments. Work requires minimal physical exertion.

Requirements

EDUCATION: A bachelor's degree in forensics, biology, chemistry, physics or a related science from an accredited college or university.
EXPERIENCE: Have eight years of experience in comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence; controlled dangerous substances, toxicology, serology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and tool mark, questioned documents or latent print examination, including experience in providing testimony in moot or criminal court.
EQUIVALENCIES: A master’s forensics, biology, chemistry, physics or a related science from an accredited college or university and seven years of experience in controlled dangerous substances, toxicology, serology, DNA, trace evidence, firearms and tool mark, questioned documents or latent print examination, including experience in providing testimony in moot or criminal court.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATES: Positions in the Drug Analysis Unit require certification by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to analyze Controlled Dangerous Substances. Certification from a National Certifying Board in Latent Print Examination may be required.
Knowledge of the principles and techniques of forensic science.
Knowledge of the rules governing the admissibility of evidence in court.
Knowledge of the application of scientific methods of forensic science,
Knowledge of new techniques and current, up-to-date developments in forensic science,
Skill in the application of computer software to laboratory specifications and needs.
Ability to write complex technical forensic laboratory reports.
Ability to perform and evaluate scientific research.
Ability to direct the maintenance of a forensic laboratory record system.
Ability to testify effectively in a court of law on forensic matters.
Supervisory ability.
Administrative ability.

Responsibilities

Supervises, schedules, assigns and evaluates the work of subordinate Forensic Scientists and other subordinate laboratory staff within an assigned unit.
Oversees the training programs of Forensic Scientists in the preparation and conduct of laboratory tests and comparative analyses of physical evidence and the preparation of scientific reports which document evidence examined, laboratory and comparative analysis methods used and conclusions reached.
Provides direction to subordinate staff on assignments, work schedules, analysis priorities and the use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
Recommends new polices and procedures that will facilitate a more effective operation of the laboratory.
Provides direction and guidance to staff in solving technical problems related to scientific and comparative analyses.
Completes specialized technical work in the authentication of criminal evidence.
Reviews professional journals and publication and attends seminars, workshops and professional meetings to keep abreast of current trends, research and technological developments and informs staff of same.
Conducts crime scene investigations to gather physical evidence for scientific testing and fact finding.
Advises the Director of Police Forensic Laboratory of new technical developments in various areas of forensic analysis and identification.
Recommends, initiates and supervises forensic science research projects.
Directs the maintenance of laboratory records, equipment, supplies and materials.
Writes complex reports and technical papers based on scientific analyses.
Develops the unit's budget and recommends the purchase of equipment and supplies.
Offers expert testimony in courts of law on forensic laboratory examinations and findings.
Performs related work as required.