Forensic Scientist II

Duties

Duties and Responsibilities

• Conducts forensic science testing and/or analyses in one or more of the following disciplines: Seized Drugs, Forensic Biology, Firearms/Toolmarks, and Materials (Trace)
• Interprets test results and prepares forensic reports on findings
• Testifies in court as an expert witness
• Provides scientific results to law enforcement agencies and answers questions related to findings
• Performs related duties as required

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

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree or advanced degree in Chemical, Physical, Biological Science, Chemical Engineering, or Forensic Science and one (1) year of applicable forensic scientist experience
• Must have a minimum of sixteen (16) semester credit hours (or equivalent) in college level chemistry coursework above general coursework from an accredited university
• Must have three (3) semester credit hours (or equivalent) college-level statistics course or a program approved by the Texas Forensic Science Commission or be able to obtain the required credit hours within one (1) year of hire
• Good knowledge of one or more of the following forensic science areas: analytical chemistry and laboratory procedures, serological and DNA analysis, firearms and toolmarks, photography and/or the use of microscopy and other complex instrumentation; knowledge of laboratory procedures and practices; knowledge of health and safety standards and practices
• Ability to safely handle evidence; ability to determine required amount of material necessary for testing; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; ability to operate personal computer; ability to maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, County employees, law enforcement agencies and the general public
• Must obtain and maintain a Texas Forensic Analyst License within one (1) year of employment or will be subject to termination (appointed or hired after October 1, 2018)
• Must maintain an average of 60% productivity, as defined in the Crime Laboratory Career Path. As a partial qualification to advance to the Forensic Scientist III position, must achieve an average of 80% productivity, as defined in the Crime Laboratory Career Path.
• Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation and clearance
• Must clear a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen test
• Must have a valid driver's license, motor vehicle liability insurance and personal injury insurance
• Must have available transportation during entire workday
• May be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweek

Working Environment and Physical Demands:

• Constantly working in indoor conditions; laboratory environment with exposure to infectious diseases, hazardous materials, flammable liquids, unfavorable fumes, vapors, or odors, and bio-hazardous materials and radiation
• Frequently moves items weighing up to 10-20 pounds
• Occasionally moves items 20-30 pounds
• Occasionally moves about the office
• Frequently communicates with others; must be able to exchange accurate information
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery
• Positions self to perform essential functions
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position
• Must have visual acuity (correctable to 20/20 eyesight) and be able to distinguish colors

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