Forensic Scientist I, Forensic Biology

Duties

• The Forensic Scientist I is an entry level forensic scientist professional that analyzes forensic evidence in a crime laboratory setting. Employees examine and analyze evidence from simple to moderately complex casework for chemical indications of the presence of blood and/or other body fluids and/or perform a DNA typing test to determine the donor of a particular body fluid.
• The employees make judgments, interpret results, and testify in court as necessary to explain and defend their findings. Employees operate with some technical independence in the forensic examination of various types of evidence.
• Employees may assist journey or senior analysts in the more varied and moderately complex casework while continuing to learn the techniques, methods and practices involved in the examination of more complex cases.
• Employees handle all evidence under stringent chain of custody rules, and are required to testify in state and federal courts. Public contact requirements are an important part of this position. The analyst must project a professional image in dealing with the public, law enforcement officers, and attorneys by telephone, written communications, and in person.
• Employees may be required to perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, Computer Forensics or Forensic Psychology

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies

• Employees must have a working knowledge of the principles, concepts, theories, reference sources, and laboratory practices involved with the forensic examination of evidence.
• Employees must have a working knowledge of criminal law and of the rules and regulations regarding evidence gathering.
• Employees must have a working knowledge of scientific methodology and of laboratory safety practices.
• Ability to perform and record complex standardized and non-standardized laboratory tests and procedures.
• Ability to analyze results, interpret methodology, and to understand and solve theoretical problems.
• Ability to express technical information clearly both orally and in writing when reporting results, testifying, or explaining procedures to others.
• Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to perceive colors normally and make olfactory distinctions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with a major in biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, animal science, zoology, medical technology, forensic science with biology/DNA concentration, or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution including coursework in biochemistry, genetic, molecular biology, statistics and population genetics; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirement

• Must obtain individual certification consistent with international and ISO standards within eighteen months of the date the analyst becomes eligible to seek certification according to the standards of the certifying entity.

Management preference:

• 2 years of related experience.

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