APD - Forensic Technician I

City of Atlanta•Atlanta, GA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Forensic Technician I performs technical and journey-level tasks related to the development, preservation, and presentation of evidence in criminal investigations. The position analyzes firearms and other evidence, including test-firing firearms and collecting cartridge casings for National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) analysis. It also processes firearms evidence, maintains accreditation standards, and ensures laboratory equipment is properly maintained. The role includes training new technicians and facilitating equipment checks and training tasks for newly hired employees. Its goal is to provide unbiased evidence analysis to support investigations and serve the community. The position works under close supervision while learning procedures and policies, with increasing responsibility for independent decision-making as knowledge and experience grow. Work follows the City’s hybrid 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 based on eligibility, departmental needs, and supervisor approval. The schedule may change to five in-person days per week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Two years of related work experience.
Active IBIS TRAX-HD3D certification on the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
Active MATCHPOINT V3.2 Correlation certification on the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (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.
Ability to meet the role’s physical, lifting, and sensory requirements, including sedentary work involving up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and negligible force frequently or constantly.

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, and peer-review reports prepared by other technicians.
Pick up and return physical evidence from the property control unit.
Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment inventory and conduct audits as needed.
Perform routine laboratory cleaning and parts repair or replacement.
Attend seminars and training sessions for professional development and train new personnel.
Maintain 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.
Perform forensic duties independently and exercise discretion in completing tasks.
Create and enter cases into the Justice Trax system; scan and attach documents in that system.
Acquire evidence in the NIBIN system and perform correlations.
Test-fire firearms for comparative evidence.
Participate in virtual training and complete certifications.
Perform other duties as assigned.