Topic: CRIMINALIST I (Firearms Examiner Trainee) Job closes March 5, 2013

[TNordhoff]

CRIMINALIST I (Firearms Examiner Trainee)
 
NATURE OF WORK
This is an entry level technical and professional position responsible for the processing, analyzing, comparing and evaluating of physical evidence related to firearm and toolmark identification as well as shoeprint and tire track identification in an ASCLD/LAB - International accredited crime laboratory.
 
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK
•                    Performs the examination of evidence such as firearms, ammunition, ammunition components, tools, toolmarks, shoes, tires, shoeprints and tire tracks;
•                    Test fires firearms for the determination of operability and the identification of malfunctions;
•                    Microscopically compares known fired evidence samples to evidential samples for the purpose of identification;
·                     Examines, evaluates, and identifies fired evidence components for the determination of type of firearm involved;
•                    Performs specialized tests related to firearms identification, (e.g., trigger pull, barrel length, etc.);
•                    Performs serial number restorations and physical fit examinations;
•                    Performs chemical and microscopic examination of items for the presence of gunshot residue and distance determination;
·                     Generates detailed documentation related to all examinations, performs quality assurance and conducts laboratory procedures in accordance with ASCLD-LAB policies;
•                    Evaluates and formulates opinions concerning evidence identified; completes reports of results of analyses and communicates results to appropriate department personnel; provides expert testimony relating to results of analyses;
•                    Maintains safe conditions in the laboratory;
•                    Provides assistance in the field to police and crime scene search personnel as needed.
 
REQUIREMENTS OF WORK
•                    Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university in a science such as criminalistics, biology or chemistry;
•                    Knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, equipment, and current techniques used in firearm, toolmark, shoeprint and tire track identification and related subjects;
•                    Knowledge of the background and theories supporting the examination and comparison procedures utilized in the identification of firearm and toolmark identification and shoeprint and tire track identification;
•                    Knowledge of the methods used in collecting and preserving physical evidence, maintaining legal chain of custody and presenting such evidence in court as an expert witness;
•                    Knowledge of ASCLD/LAB - International accreditation standards, quality assurance and laboratory safety;
•                    Ability to communicate effectively, to formulate and present ideas in an effective manner and to create comprehensive understandable reports of findings;
•                    Ability to identify viable information on projectiles , cartridge cases, and other ammunition components microscopically to class and individual characteristics; ability to collect and enter scientific data into databases, retrieve results, confirm agreement and write formal reports;
•                    Ability to follow oral and written procedures and policies and the ability to read and comprehend authoritative directives, laws, and ordinances;
•                    Ability to evaluate and test fire various types of firearm in a safe manner and to work safely with biological and chemical hazards without presenting a direct threat to self or others.
 
Special Requirements 
·                     Must be willing and able to attend and successfully complete the National Firearms Examiner Academy.  This includes a 17-week instructional session at ATF’s National Laboratory Center in Ammendale, MD.  This session is content-intensive and students can expect to study and conduct research during many evenings and weekends.
·                     Must be willing to attend and successfully complete two week-long shoe and tire impression schools in Florida.

SALARY
$44,200 to $49,100

Apply on-line at http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/HumanResources/Pages/default.aspx
   
CONTACTS
Matthew Mathis                                                              Todd Nordhoff
Crime Laboratory Director                                            Chief Criminalist – Firearms/Toolmarks 
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department         Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
Phone (704)-353-1100                                                    Phone (704)-353-1069
Email: mmathis@cmpd.org                                          Email: tnordhoff@cmpd.org