Criminalist Level I-IV

The Position

This is a continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 8/11/26, 8/25/26 (final)

$10081.58/month

Incumbents in this class conduct forensic laboratory analyses of physical evidence, evaluate technical data, investigate crime scenes, prepare evidentiary reports, and testify in court as an expert witness on the subjects of forensic analyses and crime scene investigation.

This is a continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 8/11/26, 8/25/26 (final)

Incumbents in this class conduct forensic laboratory analyses of physical evidence, evaluate technical data, investigate crime scenes, prepare evidentiary reports, and testify in court as an expert witness on the subjects of forensic analyses and crime scene investigation.

• Principles, methods, materials, standards, practices, equipment, and techniques of forensic science
• Principles of chemistry, physics, biochemistry, physiology, zoology, botany, statistics, and photography as related to forensic science
• Common types of evidence, such as narcotics, poisons, trace, firearms, and bodily fluids
• Applicable laws, rules, and regulations related to evidence, criminal procedure, and crimes
• Laboratory safety
• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation
• Principles of effective customer service

• Perform a variety of difficult chemical, instrumental, and other complex laboratory analyses
• Safely operate laboratory equipment and tools, such as microscopes, stereoscopes, centrifuges, gas chromatograph-mass spectrometers, and DNA extraction robots
• Interpret federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to physical evidence
• Develop and maintain good working relationships with those encountered during the course of work
• Promote and enforce safe work practices and handling of hazardous substances
• Prepare and analyze complex reports and correspondence
• Testify in court
• Adhere to established code of ethics
• Handle exposure to stressful situations as a result of human behavior
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Effectively organize and prioritize work assignments
• Keep accurate and orderly records
• Maintain confidential information
• Adhere to all safety practices and procedures

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, pharmacology, biology, microbiology, criminalistics/forensic science (with emphasis in a natural or physical science), or a closely related scientific field. Coursework must have included successful completion of 8 semester / 12 quarter units of general chemistry or biology.

Note:

A master’s degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a closely related scientific field may be substituted for one year of required experience for levels II - IV.

Note:

If the word “experience” is referenced in the minimum qualifications, it means full-time paid experience unless the minimum qualification states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements.

Note:

If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application. Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

Criminal History and Background Checks:
The County may access criminal history information on candidates who have accepted a conditional offer of appointment for this class consistent with the provisions of Board of Supervisors Resolution No. 82-602, Personnel Policies and Procedures and applicable federal and state laws. The County shall not consider for employment any candidate who has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor that…