APD - Forensic Technician I

City of Atlanta•Atlanta, GA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Forensic Technician I performs technical and journey-level tasks to develop, preserve, and present evidence in criminal investigations. The role analyzes firearms and other evidence, including test firing firearms and collecting cartridge casings for analysis in the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). It also processes firearms evidence, maintains accreditation standards, and ensures laboratory equipment is properly maintained. The position may train new technicians and facilitate equipment checks and training for newly hired employees. Its purpose is to provide unbiased evidence analysis in support of investigations and the community. The position works under close supervision while learning procedures and policies, with increasing responsibility for independent decisions as knowledge and experience grow. It follows the City’s hybrid work schedule policy as assigned: at least four days per week in person at City worksites or facilities, with the option of one remote day per week subject to eligibility, departmental needs, and supervisor approval. The schedule may change to five days in person.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Two years of related work experience.
Active certification for IBIS TRAX-HD3D on NIBIN.
Active certification for MATCHPOINT V3.2 Correlation on NIBIN.
Strong attention to detail and organization.
Ability to follow detailed instructions and established procedures accurately.
Ability to use laboratory and office equipment, including computers and databases.
Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate clearly with staff.
Ability to perform repetitive tasks accurately and consistently.
Ability to maintain confidential information and accurate records.
Willingness to learn and participate in training and development activities.

Nice To Haves

Basic knowledge of crime scene processing and evidence handling.
Internship or academic experience in a crime laboratory or law enforcement environment.
Master’s degree in Natural, Physical, or Forensic Science.
Strong communication and writing skills.
Experience using laboratory information systems or databases.

Responsibilities

Enter and describe firearm evidence in the laboratory information management system.
Create reports detailing findings and conclusions from processed evidence.
Peer review reports prepared by other technicians.
Pick up and return physical evidence from the property control unit.
Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment inventories and conduct audits as needed.
Perform routine cleaning and parts repair or replacement in the laboratory.
Attend seminars and training sessions for professional development and train new personnel.
Ensure compliance with accrediting-body standards through audits and procedure maintenance.
Receive and record physical evidence from crime scenes and maintain chain of custody.
Conduct tests and examinations in Firearms Identification.
Document findings for criminal cases and provide expert witness testimony.
Enter evidence, test, and findings data into the department database.
Prepare daily and weekly reports on forensic activities.
Train and assist new employees in forensic procedures.
Work independently on forensic duties and exercise discretion in completing tasks.
Create and enter cases into the JusticeTrax system.
Acquire evidence on the NIBIN system and perform correlations.
Test fire firearms for comparative evidence.
Participate in virtual training and complete certifications.
Scan and attach documents in the JusticeTrax system.
Perform other duties as assigned.