Firearms Examiner Senior

Duties

Essential Job Tasks

• Processes and preserves physical evidence including trace and biological evidence; marks evidence properly.
• Examines evidence using forensic techniques; prioritizes procedures and preserves appropriate samples for any subsequent forensic analysis.
• Applies knowledge of the historical development of firearm and tool mark identification to performing various types of evidentiary examination procedures (e.g., appropriate sample sizes, standards, control mechanisms, testing conditions).
• Examines firearms, ammunition, ammunition components, tools, toolmarks, and other related evidence.
• Designs and conducts experiments related to specific case issues.
• Enters and searches data in the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN).
• Writes scientific examination reports, prepares findings for court presentations, testifies in court, and discusses laboratory results with law enforcement officers and attorneys.
• Communicates in multiple formats with supervisors, MCSO staff, County employees, attorneys, and other experts in the field to exchange information regarding analyses of evidence; interacts with the general public regarding the evaluation of evidence for investigation of crimes.
• Consults and coordinates with other forensic scientists, law enforcement entities, attorneys, private experts, and others regarding the solution of problems involving the analysis, comparison, and identification of physical evidence.
• Inspects and evaluates equipment, objects, information, and work-related conditions to determine compliance with prescribed operating and safety standards, regulations, and guidelines including manufacturer’s specifications on computerized scientific equipment.
• Works routinely with chemicals using specialized protective equipment; determines results of chemical tests; prepares graphs, charts, and/or diagrams resulting from scientific examinations.
• Performs mathematical and statistical computations in order to complete scientific examinations.
• Determines types of ammunition and components used in shooting and whether fired from a specific firearm.
• Maintains updated firearms training and comprehends protocols.
• Works with and regularly prepares various chemical processes; determines and ensures safety protocols and precautions are adhered to when handling evidence, chemicals (carcinogenic), hazardous, and bio-hazard materials.
• Completes technical/chemical tests (e.g., gunshot, blood sampling).
• Follows proper chain of custody policy and procedures.
• Assists with maintenance of firearms laboratory and evidence processing equipment, orders supplies as needed, and maintains inventory of forensic supplies for the unit.
• Provides in-service training of employees on firearms and ballistics related topics.
• Trains and mentors new employees during their probationary period.
• Conducts lab tours and presentations for the public.
• Possesses the knowledge and ability to handle casework which, if handled improperly or delayed, could result in many liabilities (e.g., loss of life; improper incarceration; misidentifying suspects/victims; delayed filing of criminal charges, search warrants, and orders to obtain; adversely impacting prior casework; lawsuits for improper evidence handling; cases/evidence thrown out of court for insufficient evidence or mistrials; impact on litigating factors in death penalty cases).

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

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Science, Criminalistics or a related field.

Experience

• Four (4) years of experience as a firearms examiner.

OR

• Combined education and experience qualifications
• Other combinations of education and/or experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications on a year for year basis.

Other requirements

• Must understand and practice firearm safety and proper handling techniques.
• Successful completion of a documented forensic scientist firearm and toolmark training program and/or demonstration of competency in the examination of tools and objects bearing toolmarks.
• Must obtain certification on the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) system within 24 months from start date.
• Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license or have the ability to obtain by the time of hire.
• Training that may be provided on-the-job: FEMA NIMS – IS100 and 700; Safety; Payroll; PREA.
• Prior to hiring, the Sheriff's Office requires that all candidates pass an extensive background review, polygraph and psychological testing .

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