Topic: Forensic Scientist (Firearms & Toolmark Analyst)

[Carla Butler]

Forensic Scientist II (Firearms & Toolmark Analyst) CS-401-11 Salary Range: $57,960 - $74,727 (Union) Department of Forensic Sciences Washington, DC Vacancy Position Closes - March 8, 2015 Also, you must on the Register before you apply to any positions on the website 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 is responsible for performing examinations of physical evidence submitted to the Firearms Examination Unit related to firearms and tool mark identification.   Identifies, analyzes, compares, and interprets evidence in criminal investigations. The types of crimes include person crimes, such as homicides, sexual assaults, and robberies, as well as property crimes and the types of cases that might be encountered in the laboratory could include, but are not limited to the following:   - Ballistics (bullets, cartridges, casings)   - Identification of types of weaponry/triggers/barrel/mechanics of the weapon, etc.   - Identification of ammunitions   - Analysis of tool marks   - Restoration of serial numbers   - Test-firing of weapons in the lab   - Analysis of powder residue/burns/patterns   - Determining the caliber weapon   - Determining the trigger pull weight of a weapon   - Reconstruction of projectile evidence - Reconstruction of a shooting scene of crimes - Reviews other Forensic Scientists data and reports using technical and/or administrative review protocols. -   - Performs other job-related duties as assigned.   Qualifications Required to successfully complete competency testing prior to beginning casework in a specialty discipline or sub-discipline; and successfully complete annual proficiency testing as required by accreditation standards.   Advanced knowledge of and skill in applying a wide range of theories, principles, concepts, methodology and practices of analytical chemistry, physical science, or biology or related field to the work that is sufficient to perform mathematical and statistical that relates to analytical laboratory work; and knowledge of and ability to apply Federal, state, and local laws, codes and regulations pertaining to forensic science; apply evidence collection and preservation procedures.   Must have knowledge of quality assurance procedures, accreditation standards, proper procedures, standard laboratory rules, safety precautions regarding chemicals, toxins, biohazards, evidence collection, and preservation procedures.   Advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with forensic investigations of systems and comprehensive knowledge of equipment and supplies used in a forensic laboratory including specialized scientific equipment, instrumentation and software; recent developments, current literature and sources of information related to the assigned forensic specialty and the ability to modify analytical methods, to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues on materials subject to analysis in the specialty area.   Ability to apply theoretical and analytical principles of natural and physical sciences, including organic, inorganic, biochemistry, physical chemistry, and other applicable fields; apply operational methods and techniques of the forensic laboratory, including laboratory testing procedures.   Thorough knowledge of evidence collection, preservation and chain of custody rules/laws and knowledge of safety practices, procedures as they apply to analyses in the laboratory; and knowledge of the rules of evidence and the methods used in presenting evidence in court, and policies and procedures for maintaining and handling evidence and the chain-of-evidence integrity.   Ability to work extensively with chemicals and biohazards in a safe manner; and perform a variety of scientific tests and analyses; recognize anomalies, formulate hypotheses, and take appropriate action; prepare and maintain accurate records/data and prepare clear and concise reports and memoranda.   Ability to testify effectively in court as a key witness in legal proceedings.   Thorough knowledge of and understanding of the principles, theories, concepts and practices of computer science or related field; advanced skill in personal, portable, desktop digital devices, etc.; skill and ability to use a personal computer to apply forensic software applications; and prepare, store, and retrieve data and knowledge of software affiliated with crime scene data; and advanced knowledge of intrusion tools and computer forensic methodologies, protocols, and tools.   Ability to work safely without presenting a threat to self or others is essential. To Apply go the DCHR website at dchr.dc.gov and click on the Career tab and select Employment Opportunities and look up by agency Dept. of Forensic Sciences and click on Vacancy Announcement JO-1502-1350, Forensic Scientist (Firearms & Toolmark Analyst), CS-401-11 position Open to the Public and closes on March 8, 2015.