About This Role
This senior-level position involves working independently within a specialized unit of the Chicago Police Department's Forensic Laboratory, focusing on complex scientific examinations of physical evidence in crime investigations. The role requires applying scientific principles to identify and classify items, conducting chemical analyses, and using various scientific tools and methods.
Responsibilities
- Perform independent scientific examinations in a specialized area of Forensics
- Perform preliminary reviews of case evaluations completed by Forensic Scientists
- Provide technical assistance to Forensic Scientists and other departmental members
- Receive, collect, and preserve physical evidence submitted to the Forensic laboratory associated with criminal investigations
- Apply scientific principles to identify and classify items received in the laboratory (e.g., hair, skin, tissues, blood, bones, bullets, shells, weapons, etc.)
- Conduct chemical analyses of evidentiary materials (e.g., blood, fibers, tool marks, body fluids)
- Conduct tests on physical items using various methods and scientific tools (e.g., visual examinations, instrumental analysis, presumptive evaluations, enhancement techniques, extractions, quantifications, microscopic techniques, comparative examinations)
- Analyze chemical and physical substances, materials, liquids, or other physical evidence and prepare chemical reagents within assigned forensic discipline
- Use photographic equipment to enhance evidence through digital imaging and post processing
- Identify and reach scientific conclusions supported by data and observations
- Communicate findings and conclusions with departmental members
- Prepare technical reports or presentations of findings, methods, and techniques used to support conclusions and prepare results for court of other formal hearings
- Perform audits of chemicals, equipment and laboratory supplies
- Maintain compliance with accreditation standards, laboratory and departmental procedures and methods
- Attend seminars and reviews published materials to remain abreast of new technology and new applications in the area of forensic analysis
- Maintain the laboratory in a clean and orderly manner
- Perform basic maintenance, calibration and quality control on scientific instruments
- Conduct regular performance monitoring, including proficiency and competency testing, as required
- Testify as an expert witness on evidence and crime laboratory techniques at the local, state and federal levels
- Train new Forensic Scientists in a primary forensic sub-discipline
- Confer with senior level scientists on case investigations
- Assist in training Forensic Scientists in the methods of analysis, collection methods and preservation techniques
