Dfs: Central Evidence Specialist

General Job Information

Job Summary

This position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS). The mission of the DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services using best practices and best available technology, focusing on unbiased science and transparency, to enhance public safety and health.

The position serves in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS), Central Evidence Unit (CEU) which is responsible for accepting, preserving, and returning physical evidence and test samples submitted to the agency. In addition, the Unit is responsible for laboratory distribution of evidence for the purpose of forensic testing. Evidence includes, but are not limited to, biological evidence, latent fingerprints, tire and shoe impressions, drugs, firearms, and tool mark impressions.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Central Evidence Specialist performs the full range of functions that relate to the receipt, storage, preservation, and distribution of evidence for the DFS/CEU as well as the recording and management of case information. Provides direction and proper procedures in appropriately handling the evidence to internal and external DFS stakeholders.

Receives and documents submitted/returned evidence from internal and external DFS stakeholders, initiates the chain-of-custody, enters all required information into the evidence tracking systems and/or systems databases for case related information. Serves on a team of evidence technicians and laboratory personnel to perform all administrative functions associated with the centralized management of cases. Performs evidence inventories, prepares necessary forms, notes and documents packages for administrative and legal purposes. Assists in retrieving files from the agency storage areas to resolve discrepancies and complete assignments.

The incumbent coordinates evidence to assigned and authorized personnel to ensure proper and complete disposition of items such as weapons, drugs, money, other valuables, etc. Cross-checks property and evidence records with packaged evidence and verifies information through comparison with actual evidence.

Documents evidence transfers in appropriate property and evidence management systems. Performs evidence transfers to DFS laboratory units as well as external public and private forensic laboratories; transfers evidence to detectives, attorneys, and other parties, as required. Receives results of laboratory analyses, distributes copies to designated personnel, and files original reports in appropriate DFS files.

Performs audits and necessary updates for case management systems. Monitors and assists with necessary maintenance for evidence storage and packaging areas, including monitoring of refrigerators and freezers, and other equipment to ensure proper functioning. Responds to requests for files, reports, photos, and other information from internal and external DFS stakeholders.

Qualifications and Education

Must possess at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the grade CS-09 level. Specialized experience is experience which is directly related to the position and has equipped the individual with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position including, but are not limited to: performing the full range of functions that relate to the receipt, storage, preservation, and distribution of evidence for the DFS/CEU as well as the recording and management of case information; receiving submitted/returned evidence from internal and external DFS stakeholders.

Bachelor's degree in a related field (criminal justice or forensic science) or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is highly desired.

Licensure and Certifications

None

Working Conditions/Environment

This position's duty station will be housed within the Consolidated Forensic Laboratory (CFL) which is a protection-sensitive facility. As such, incumbents of this position are designated as safety-sensitive and shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, and other requirements as applicable. Due to the handling of primary evidence, the applicant will be required to submit a buccal swab for the purposes of the DNA Quality Control database for the DFS.

Work is performed in an office environment, in a laboratory setting r in a warehouse/storage facility. As the first entry of evidence into the DFS, the incumbent must handle many potentially dangerous materials. This type of evidence requires the incumbent to take safety precautions, including the wearing of protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, masks, etc.

The nature of the DFS mission necessarily involves the potential risks associated with biological or chemical hazards, including morgue functions. Although contact with these functions is intended to be minimal, the risks are nevertheless possible; training to recognize, address, and mitigate these risks is required as is dealing with potentially personally difficult topics, such as crime, death, and disease.

Other Significant Facts

Screenings Date(s): Two (2) weeks, July 10, 2024

Tour of Duty: Shift, and holiday work is required.

Overtime before or after the daily tour may be required. Mandatory overtime (scheduled or unscheduled) may be required.

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0301-11

Promotion Potential: No Known Promotion Potential

Type of Appointment: Career Service (CS), Regular Appointment

Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) Local R3-05, and subject to pay an agency service fee (union dues) through direct payroll deduction.

Position Suitability: This position has been deemed Safety Sensitive under the guidelines of the DC Personnel Manual.

Incumbents of this position are subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC personnel regulations. Accordingly, you must successfully pass a criminal background and drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment and will be subject to periodic criminal background checks, background investigations, and drug tests for the duration of your tenure.

Position Designation: This position has been designated as Essential and acceptance of this offer confirms you agree to adhere to the policies in sections 1271 and 1274 of DPM Chapter 12, regarding essential/emergency employees.

As an essential employee, you will be required to either report to work, stay at work, or telework (if directed to do so) during a declared emergency or during a period of non-emergency where your duties have been deemed as critical District government functions/operations. You may be required to perform other duties outside of your position description during a period of a declared emergency (such as manual labor, shelter services, etc.).

Residency Preference: Applicants claiming "Residency Preference" will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.