About This Role
This classification performs a variety of laboratory tests, such as analyzing physical, chemical, or biological evidence collected in support of a criminal investigation. The incumbent composes technical laboratory reports describing the results of tests and testifies in criminal court as an expert witness. This entry/training level role operates under the direct guidance of a supervisor, with increasing independence as experience and proficiency grow.
Responsibilities
- Analyze or assist in the analysis of physical and/or biological evidence using scientific principles, instrumentation, and methods to generate laboratory reports for use in the investigation of a crime
- Evaluate and compare unknown forensic evidence against known reference standards and/or forensic databases [e.g., Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN)] to determine identity, similarities, patterns, or differences for use in the investigation of a crime
- Demonstrate and articulate knowledge and proficiency in methodology for the assigned discipline through competency tests, presentations, question and answer sessions, mock cases, and mock court settings
- Assist with discipline specific instrument maintenance and quality control duties to ensure the integrity of testing results
- Use the laboratory information system to review case information, track evidence, enter results, and generate reports
- Document, process, and preserve forensic evidence in the laboratory for use in the investigation of a crime
- Testify and/or consult as an expert witness for judicial proceedings to communicate laboratory results
- Perform technical and administrative peer reviews of forensic casework to ensure accuracy of testing results and compliance with laboratory and discipline specific policies
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in chemistry, or other natural or physical sciences; forensic science, or other forensic related areas; including a minimum of thirty-six progressive quarter hours (twenty-four semester hours) in chemistry or equivalent chemistry and/or forensic science related coursework
- Transcript with all chemistry credits or equivalent chemistry and/or forensic science related credits is required to be uploaded with an employment application
- At least eighteen (18) years of age on the date of application
- Citizen of the United States
- Possess a valid motor vehicle operator's license
- Supply a fingerprint sample in a manner prescribed by the TBI for a fingerprint based criminal history records check
- Complete a criminal history and background disclosure form in a manner approved by the appointing authority and agree to release all records involving any criminal history or necessary records to the appointing authority