TVC Services Officer; Services Officer II

Forensic Science Management

Performs highly advanced (senior-level) forensic science management work. Work involves overseeing crime laboratory work, tests, analysis, and identification of physical evidence or database samples; interpreting analytical results; developing and instructing staff on new techniques and procedures; preparing technical reports and records; and testifying as an expert witness. Laboratory Section Supervisor I supervises less than 10 employees. Plans, assigns, and supervises the work of others.

Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential duties/responsibilities include managing personnel in the section regarding work assignments, priorities, expectations; overseeing the laboratory/section by reviewing laboratory reports and work records; ensuring that quality work is performed, accurate reports are issued, and all quality assurance measures are being met; ascertaining that evidence or database samples are secured and properly marked and sealed; overseeing receipt of evidence, destruction, and return of evidence;

participating in personnel decisions, overseeing employee training, and monitoring their performance; conducting liaison with area law enforcement personnel and prosecuting attorneys to meet needs; providing summaries of certain laboratory activity on a monthly or quarterly basis; monitoring case age, assignments, and status of requests within the section; assigning casework to personnel and conducting staff meetings; coordinating the annual testimony survey of laboratory staff;

evaluating replacement of equipment, as needed; attending work regularly and observing approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies; and performing other duties as assigned.

General qualifications and requirements include graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical, Physical, or Biological Science, Chemical Engineering or Forensic Science including a minimum of sixteen-semester credit hours (or equivalent) in college-level chemistry coursework above general coursework; a minimum of four (4) years of progressively complex work experience in a forensic laboratory in the field of Drug Analysis;

a valid driver license from state of residence; obtaining a forensic analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission, following the completion of training, if required by the Code of Criminal Procedure; working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures; knowledge of management and supervisory methods and principles, performance and productivity standards, and fiscal/budget management;

ability to develop plans, policies, and procedures for efficient workflow and overall effectiveness; thorough knowledge of principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline and understanding of identification principles; knowledge of safety procedures for handling hazardous chemicals; of proper evidence handling procedures; skill in use of laboratory equipment and materials; ability to coordinate the handling of evidence between sections;

recommend improvements in methodology and equipment to management; communicate findings, orally and in writing, in a clear, concise and effective manner; conduct microscopic examinations requiring accuracy and concentration when relevant; conduct testing used in examination of evidence; testify in court as an expert witness; ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers;

ability to work effectively with laboratory, legal, and law enforcement personnel; organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism; ability to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations…