Senior Forensic Scientist

Position Summary

Lead, oversee and assign forensic caseloads and other related work to assigned staff responsible for examining, identifying, analyzing, evaluating and preserving evidence in the investigations of crimes. Perform a variety of other technical tasks, relative to the assigned area(s) of responsibility; maintain communications within the Scientific Evidence Division (SED) on any issues; and participate in the more complex and difficult work required within the assigned area(s) of responsibility.

Refer to the Crime Laboratory chart of standards for specific criteria for Senior Forensic Scientist.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements

When assigned to DNA and Chemistry:

Master's degree from an accredited college or university in forensic science, chemistry, biology, a physical science or related field, plus three (3) years of discipline specific forensic experience, and three (3) years direct supervisory experience; or

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in forensic science, chemistry, biology, a physical science or related field, plus four (4) years of discipline specific forensic experience and applicable forensic certification (from the SED Director's Approved List), and (3) years direct supervisory experience; or

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in forensic science, chemistry, biology, a physical science or related field, plusfive (5) years of discipline specific forensic experience, and (3) years direct supervisory experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain by date of hire.

Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

Refer to the Crime Laboratory chart of standards for specific criteria for Senior Forensic Scientist.

Preferred Knowledge

• Operations, services, procedures and activities of a forensic laboratory

• Training in the principles of laboratory management and supervision

• Principles of business letter writing and basic report preparation

• Advanced laboratory techniques, procedures and principles

• Crime scene investigations

• Methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and evaluation

• Operation of forensic instruments, equipment and tools

• Operation of basic power and hand tools

• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices

• Pertinent Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations

• Computers and various programs and data bases

Preferred Skills & Abilities

• Plan, organize and coordinate work assignments

• Organize and review the work of staff in the area of work assigned

• Independently perform the most difficult forensic evidence collection, identification and analysis

• Interpret, explain and enforce department policies and procedures

• Maintain appropriate visual discrimination and perception needed for making observations

• Define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions

• Recognize anomalies, formulate hypotheses and take appropriate action

• Perform forensic evidence collection, identification and analysis

• Operate a variety of forensic laboratory equipment and instruments in a safe and effective manner

• Work independently in the absence of supervision

• Prepare complex technical written and verbal reports

• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions

• Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships

• Identify similarities and differences between shades, colors, shapes, sounds, forms, textures or physical appearance associated with job related objects, materials, tasks

• Interpret a variety of technical instructions

• Communicate clearly and concisely

• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation