Topic: Firearm & Toolmark Examiner Position - Pierre, SD

[Frans Maritz]

Criminalist
Firearms and Tool-Mark Examiner
Pierre, SD

Requisition #

Agency:  Office of Attorney General, Division of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Laboratory
Salary:   E16 – E18   $35,529.66 to $66,324.00 per annual, DOQ
Closing Date:  March 13, 2009

Position Purpose:
The Criminalist evaluates, examines, and identifies physical evidence from and at crime scenes utilizing established and standardized procedures and techniques; serves as a technical authority in the analysis of firearms and tool-mark evidence from criminal investigations: will utilize chemical and microscopic techniques and instrumentation which may include forensic photography, lasers, x-ray cameras, computer networking including NIBIN and as assigned; documents findings and prepares technical written reports of laboratory examinations and discusses results with law enforcement officers and attorneys; provides expert testimony in various courts throughout the state of South Dakota;  keeps abreast of scientific advancements in forensic fields by reading technical journals and attending conferences, seminars, and training sessions; and shares general laboratory duties with other Criminalists such as laboratory accreditation, maintaining laboratory safety, on-call responsibilities and training.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:
-   criminalistics and forensic science; evidence collection, packaging, and preservation;
-   evidence examination and the types of tests commonly used in each area in the examination of physical evidence and data interpretation; laboratory safety;
-   forensic tool-mark investigation techniques; the field of forensic firearms and ammunition.

Ability to:
-   deal tactfully with others; utilize forensics instruments and laboratory equipment properly;
-   conduct a variety of scientific procedures to examine firearms and tool-marks,
-   communicate both orally and in writing; testify in court regarding test results and conclusions.

Comments:

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in criminalistics, natural science, physical science, forensic science, criminal justice, police science, industrial technology or closely related field of study is preferred for this position. The hiring agency may use other experience equivalencies, at their discretion, to measure the applicant’s firearm/tool-mark casework experience to substitute for an academic degree. At the minimum, the education/experience requirements recommended by SWGGUN for trainee level firearm and/or experienced level firearm and tool-mark examiners are required.  Firearm/tool-mark experience is preferred, but not required for this position.    Must possess or have the ability obtain a valid driver’s license for South Dakota.  Must pass a comprehensive background investigation.  This position is subject to occasional call-out for after hour and week-end duty.  The usual exposures to laboratory hazards exist.

To Apply:  Submit a letter of interest, transcripts and resume or state employment application (available at a South Dakota Career Center and on the Internet at www.state.sd.us/jobs) to:

Craig Price, Director
SD State Forensic Lab
1302 E. Highway 14, Suite 6
Pierre, SD  57501
Phone:  (605) 773-3673,  Fax:  (605) 773-5658,
email:  craig.price@state.sd.us
“EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER”