APD - Forensic Technician

General Description and Classification Standards

Responsible for performing technical and journey-level tasks related to the development, preservation, and presentation of evidence in criminal investigations. This includes analyzing firearms and evidence collected, such as test firing firearms and collecting cartridge casings for analysis in the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).

Additionally, responsibilities include processing firearms evidence, maintaining accreditation standards, and ensuring equipment in the lab is properly maintained. Training new technicians and facilitating equipment checks and training tasks for newly hired employees are also key aspects of the role. The ultimate goal is to provide unbiased analysis of evidence to assist in the investigative process and serve the community effectively.

Supervision Received

Works under close supervision while learning procedures and policies. Becomes increasingly responsible for independent decision-making as knowledge and experience increase.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

• Enter and describe firearm evidence into the laboratory information management system.
• Create reports detailing findings and conclusions of processed evidence.
• Peer review reports of other technicians.
• Pick up and return physical evidence from the property control unit.
• Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment in the lab and conduct audits as needed.
• Complete routine cleaning and parts repair/replacement in the lab.
• Attend seminars and training sessions for self-improvement and training new personnel.
• Ensure compliance with accrediting body standards through audits and procedure maintenance.
• Receive and record physical evidence from crime scenes, maintain chain of custody.
• Conduct tests and examinations in Firearms Identification.
• Document findings for use in criminal cases and provide expert witness testimony.
• Enter data on evidence, tests, and findings into the department's database.
• Prepare daily and weekly reports on forensic activities.
• Train and assist new employees in forensic procedures.
• Work independently on forensic duties and exercise discretion in task completion.
• Create and enter cases into the justice Trax system.
• Acquire evidence on the NIBIN system and perform correlations.
• Test fire firearms for comparative evidence.
• Participate in virtual trainings and complete certifications.
• Scan and attach documents into the justice Trax system.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge

Skills and Abilities

This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

• Knowledge of Basic knowledge of crime scene processing and evidence handling preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and established procedures with accuracy.
• Ability to use laboratory and office equipment including computers and databases.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate clearly with staff.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks with accuracy and consistency.
• Ability to maintain confidential information and accurate records.
• Willingness to learn and participate in training and development activities.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in related field, and two (2) years related work experience.

Licensures and Certifications

Active Certification for IBIS TRAX-HD3D on the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).Active Certification for MATCHPOINT V3.2 Correlation on the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).

Preferred Requirements

Internship or academic experience in a crime laboratory or law enforcement environment. Master’s Degree in Natural, Physical, or Forensic Science. Strong communication and writing skills. Experience using laboratory information systems or databases.

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully.…