Forensic Scientist

Position Number: 22181456

County: Pulaski

Posting End Date: 03/20/2024

Anticipated Starting Salary: 45010

The Department of Public Safety's mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state's premier public safety agency.

This position is Safety Sensitive and is subject to pre-employment, random, and for-cause drug screenings.

If you are requesting veteran's preference, please include your DD214.

Authorities & Responsibilities

A Firearm and Toolmark Examiner is responsible for examining firearm and toolmark evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies within the state of Arkansas, as well as federal agencies.

• Notates information regarding evidence submitted.

• Uses a comparison microscope to compare bullets and cartridge cases side-by-side against those test fired in firearms submitted by various law enforcement agencies. This may allow an examiner to determine whether or not a bullet or cartridge case was fired in the firearm in question

• Determines if a firearm is safe to shoot and functions properly.

• Enters cartridge cases into the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) and reviews the resulting correlations.

• Uses a comparison microscope to compare toolmarks from the crime scene against test marks made with the tool submitted by law enforcement agencies. This may allow an examiner to determine if the tool in question was used to make the markings at the crime scene.

• Conducts range (distance) determination testing.

• Restores serial numbers on firearms.

• Writes a detailed report concerning scientific findings related to the firearm and toolmark analysis.

• Appears in state and federal courts to testify as an expert witness in the area of forensic firearm and toolmark identification and offers opinions based upon scientific analysis in legal criminal proceedings.

• Provides technical assistance, information and instruction to law enforcement agencies in firearm and toolmark techniques and procedures.

• Performs related responsibilities as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

The position requires a minimum of a Bachelor's degree with science courses, from an accredited

college or university.

Position Information

Class Code: B053C

Grade: GS08

FLSA Status: EXEMPT

Salary Range: $45,010.00 - $65,265.00

Summary

The Forensic Scientist is responsible for the examination of evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. After the examination has been completed, the results must be interpreted and a report prepared.

Also, the analyst must be prepared to testify as an expert witness to their findings. This position is governed by state and federal laws agency/institution policy.

Functions

Designs and conducts a series of analytical tests, including chemistry (Controlled Substances, Trace Evidence and Toxicology), biology (DNA, CODIS, and Serology), digital evidence analysis, latent print analysis, and firearms/toolmarks analysis on evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. Documents evidence and prepares detailed reports of findings detailing analytical methods and techniques used to support conclusions for submission to legal authorities and courts of law.

Testifies in court as an expert witness on the analysis of evidence and conclusions reached. Researches scientific literature and exchanges information with peers to stay current with latest scientific advances in the analysis of criminal evidence. Participates in the laboratory's proficiency testing program.

Provides training, technical support, and consultation to the law enforcement officers/agencies, attorneys, and other public officials and citizens of the state. Conducts crime scene investigations, as requested by law enforcement agencies. Performs other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the principles and practices of forensic analysis, and of forensic analytical methods and techniques. Knowledge of laws, regulations, and agency policies governing forensic activities.

Knowledge of laboratory equipment used to perform forensic analysis. Ability to plan and organize forensic analysis. Ability to write descriptive results of analysis and appear as an expert witness in court.

Ability to plan, organize, and oversee the work of subordinates. Ability to conduct research, establish new analytical procedures, and prepare and present training on the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in a natural science; plus three years of experience in a forensic laboratory. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

None

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Nearest Major Market: Little Rock