Sheriff's Forensic Scientist Trainee​/I​/II​/III- Comparative Analysis; Firearms​/Toolmarks​/Impressions

Forensic Scientist Trainee

Under immediate supervision, Forensic Scientist Trainee (FST) participates in an agency-sponsored training program to develop the knowledge, understanding, and technical skills required in Comparative Analysis, and performs other related duties as assigned. Under direct supervision, Forensic Scientist I (FS I) performs forensic science casework of limited complexity in Comparative Analysis, presents findings in court and other legal proceedings, and prepares documentation and written reports.

May be authorized to perform administrative review of casework. Performs other duties as assigned. Under general supervision, Forensic Scientist II (FS II) performs more complex and difficult casework in Comparative Analysis, communicates independently with investigators, Deputy District Attorneys and defense attorneys, prepares documentation and written reports, and presents finding in court. May be authorized to perform technical review of casework.

Performs other related duties as assigned. Under direction, Forensic Scientist III (FS III) is the lead worker and performs the most difficult and complex casework in Comparative Analysis, communicates independently with investigators, Deputy District Attorneys and defense attorneys, presents findings in criminal court, prepares documentation and written reports. Will be authorized to perform technical review of casework. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Forensic Scientist Trainee classification differs from the Forensic Scientist I in that this classification is required to successfully participate in a forensic science training program. Throughout the training program, the Trainee will be required to demonstrate competence in one or more assigned specialty areas before being eligible to promote to the Forensic Scientist I level. The Forensic Scientist I classification is characterized by the performance of professional forensic science analysis.

Incumbents are not expected to have expertise in a complex specialty area. This classification differs from the Forensic Scientist II classification in that the latter classification is expected to perform journeyman-level analysis and casework. Incumbents in this classification typically receive mentoring as they continue their professional development in a specialty discipline. The Forensic Scientist II classification is the journeyman-level classification in the forensic scientist series.

This classification is characterized by its thorough knowledge of forensic science in at least one specialty area of the lab. Trains other forensic scientists in specialized knowledge and work methods. The Forensic Scientist III is the advanced journeyman-level classification in the forensic scientist series. It differs from the Forensic Scientist II in that this classification provides lead direction on more complex, difficult, and highly visible cases.

It differs from the Supervising Forensic Scientist in that the latter classification has full supervisory responsibility over a section of the forensic science laboratory.

PAYROLL TITLE and APPROXIMATE SALARIES:
Forensic Scientist Trainee: $28.86 - $40.37 per hour Forensic Scientist I: $37.39 - $52.31 per hour Forensic Scientist II: $46.12 - $64.64 per hour Forensic Scientist III: $49.89 - $69.99 per hour EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE:
Possible educational incentive of 5% for incumbents in eligible positions based on completion of a Master's degree that is not required for the classification. BILINGUAL INCENTIVE:
Incumbents may also be eligible for bilingual incentive depending upon operational need and certification of skill. DEPARTMENT/AGENCY:
Sheriff's / Forensic Services Bureau Forensic Scientists are represented by the Service Employees' International Union (SEIU) and are eligible for overtime compensation.

NOTE:

If appointed at the lower level, incumbent may be promoted to the higher level without further exam upon meeting the minimum requirements, demonstrating satisfactory performance, and in accordance with the business needs of the department.

Duties may include but are not limited to the following: FST Participates in comprehensive laboratory training in Comparative Analysis (Firearms/Toolmarks/Impressions);
Learns the various techniques used in collection, preservation, handling, and receipt of physical evidence; learns quality control of evidence handling and procedures;
Observes courtroom proceedings and participates in mock trials to learn appropriate courtroom demeanor; may testify in court regarding chain of evidence and handling procedures;
Prepares written reports describing the evidence examined, observations, results of testing, and interpretations or conclusions;
Maintains case files and records to preserve the integrity of evidence and examinations performed;
Learns to maintain and calibrate scientific instruments;
Assists in validation of new instrumentation and procedures; and Performs…