Forensic Scientist Shift Supervisor

General Job Information

Job Summary

This is an interdisciplinary position that involves work with two different occupations which may be filled under the Forensic Scientist, 0401 or 0301 Series, depending on the qualifications of the candidate selected.

This position is 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 Forensic Scientist Shift Supervisor (Crime Scene Unit) provides first-line supervision, supporting both the administrative and technical functions of the Division. This role is responsible for overseeing the analysis, collection, preservation, and processing of physical and biological evidence within the laboratory. The position involves managing work related to various crime scenes, including violent crimes such as homicides, assaults with deadly weapons, sexual assaults, and robberies, as well as property crimes and traffic fatalities. Evidence types include biological samples and latent fingerprints.

Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent is responsible for managing a high volume of daily tasks and addressing complex special demands by scheduling, processing, and appropriately distributing work among subordinate staff. They ensure effective communication, report findings, assess needs, and make recommendations. The incumbent keeps the supervisor informed about specific operations, problems, and potential improvements in productivity. They also facilitate effective two-way communication with and among subordinates to ensure efficient individual and group performance and development. Supervises the handling of evidence recovered from criminal investigations by ensuring that analysis, photographs, and collected items are properly packaged, preserved, and effectively presented. Demonstrates the ability to supervise staff efficiently. The incumbent may also be required to work both in the field and in the laboratory setting as needed.

Supervises, plans, and directs subordinate staff, including contracted personnel within the DFS. Responsibilities include reviewing work performance, utilizing staff to achieve work objectives, and monitoring both quantitative and qualitative measures. Formulates overall resource plans, approves or disapproves leave requests, and makes recommendations for candidate selections, staff promotions, incentive recognition, and corrective actions. Establishes work standards, identifies developmental and training needs, and provides advice to forensic scientists. Consults with key DFS managers and represents the CSS in advising District of Columbia officials on laboratory-related matters.

Qualifications and Education

A Degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.

Or

Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

In addition, applicants must have Specialized Experience. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licensure and Certifications

Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Incumbent must be able to successfully complete the DFS Crime Scene Sciences Competency Testing.

Work Conditions/Environment

The Forensic Scientist Shift Supervisor provides first-line supervision, supporting the Division's administrative and technical functions. This role is responsible for overseeing the analysis, collection, preservation, and processing of physical and biological evidence within the laboratory. The position manages work associated with diverse crime scenes, including violent crimes such as homicides, assaults with deadly weapons, sexual assaults, and robberies, as well as property crimes and traffic fatalities. The evidence handled includes biological samples and latent fingerprints.

Additionally, the incumbent may be exposed to various objectionable material (e.g., pornography, etc.) The work may require the incumbent to be in unstable locations necessitating the wearing of a ballistic safety vest. The position requires the use of electronic communication devices including, but not limited to, cell phones, communication radios, and wireless computers.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty: Rotating shifts, weekend, and holiday work are required. Overtime, either before or after the regular shift, may be necessary. Mandatory overtime, whether scheduled or unscheduled, may also be required.

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: MS-0401/0301-13

MSS At Will: Management Supervisory Service (MSS) serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority and may be terminated at any time with or without cause.

Promotion Potential: No known promotion potential

Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is not covered under a collective bargaining agreement.

Position Suitability: This position has been deemed Safety Sensitive under the guidelines of the DC Personnel Manual and is subject to mandatory pre-employment and periodic criminal background checks and traffic records checks (as applicable). This position is also subject to mandatory pre-employment and random drug and alcohol Testing. In this position, you may be disqualified from employment based on the presence of marijuana in test results, even if you possess a medical card authorizing the use of medical marijuana.

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.