Forensic Scientist I : Performs (entry-level) training on laboratory tests, analyses, classifications, comparisons, and identifications/associations of all types of physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area. Training involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results and preparing written opinion reports. Trains on testimony as an expert witness in court as to results of analyses. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Forensic Scientist II : Performs routine (journey-level) forensic science work. Work involves conducting laboratory tests, analyses, and identifying all types of physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area. Work includes interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Forensic Scientist III : Performs moderately complex (journey-level) forensic science work. Work involves conducting laboratory analyses on database samples or physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area. Work includes interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

Forensic Scientist I Firearms & Toolmarks

1. Develops communication skills sufficient to communicate effectively with agencies and other customers regarding sensitive information related to the offense and/or analyses being done.
2. Learns how to use the laboratory information management system (LIMS) for evidentiary documentation, chain of custody, analysis, and other metrics within the laboratory.
3. Prepares reports concerning the preliminary and final results of each analysis performed.
4. Represents the discipline and the results of analysis in testimony and may serve as an expert witness in court.
5. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.
6. Performs other duties as assigned.
7. Trains in Firearm & Toolmarks identifications including the study of texts on firearms, gunshot residue, ammunition, and the theory of firearms identification.
8. Works on various firearms-related assignments as assigned by the supervisor and takes written and oral tests over assigned materials.
9. Receives instruction on operation of comparison microscope and other scientific equipment.
10. Completes proficiency tests utilizing developed skills and participates in mock trials.
11. Identifies firearms by make, caliber type, and class characteristics and compares microscopic striations on primers, firing pin impressions, and cartridge case bodies.
12. Prepares metals and other materials for visual and microscopic examinations.
13. Conducts microscopic examinations and comparisons of tools and toolmarks.
14. Researches forensic science fields and scientific journals for new advances in Firearms & Toolmarks examinations.

Forensic Scientist II Firearms & Toolmarks

1. Receives and returns evidence items and completes proper forms according to strict transfer procedures to guarantee and maintain the integrity of the accepted chain of evidence for each item.
2. Contacts various law enforcement officials and others to obtain and/or provide information related to the offense to which provided evidence items are relevant.
3. Prepares preliminary and final reports concerning results of each analysis performed.
4. Serves as an expert witness in court.
5. Conducts macroscopic, microscopic, and physical examinations to compare striations on primers, firing pin impressions, cartridge case bodies, tools, and toolmarks.
6. Conducts shotgun spread pattern tests and visible powder burn determinations for distance determination.
7. Completes verification, technical review, and proficiency tests as required.
8. Researches forensic science fields and scientific journals for new advances in Firearms & Toolmarks examinations.

Forensic Scientist III Firearms & Toolmarks

1. Conducts macroscopic, microscopic, and physical examinations to compare striations on primers, firing pin impressions, cartridge case bodies, tools, and toolmarks.
2. Conducts shotgun spread pattern tests and visible powder burn determinations for distance determination.
3. Completes verification, technical review, and proficiency tests as required.
4. Researches forensic science fields and scientific journals for new advances in Firearms & Toolmarks examinations.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS:

Education – Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in a chemical, physical, biological science, chemical engineering, or forensic science. Forensic science programs must be either FEPAC-accredited OR meet the minimum curriculum requirements pertaining to natural science core courses and specialized science courses set forth in the FEPAC Accreditation Standards.

Substitution Note : A Forensic Analyst license may be substituted for the education requirements.

Experience - Forensic Scientist I Firearms & Toolmarks: None. Forensic Scientist II Firearms & Toolmarks: A minimum of two (2) years of full-time work experience as a Forensic Scientist I or equivalent experience in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline. Documented completion of the training program. Forensic Scientist III Firearms & Toolmarks: A minimum of two (2) years of work experience as a Forensic Scientist II in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline. Documented completion of the training program.

Licensure and/or Certification – Must possess a valid driver license from the state of residence. Must have a forensic analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission if required by the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Regulatory Knowledge – Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies, and procedures.

Forensic Science – Thorough knowledge of principles, techniques, and procedures of related forensic science discipline; understanding of identification principles. Knowledge of safety procedures for handling hazardous chemicals; proper evidence handling procedures. Skill in the use of laboratory equipment and materials.

Ability to :

• Coordinate the handling of evidence between sections;
• Recommend improvements in methodology and equipment to management;
• Communicate findings, orally and in writing, in a clear, concise, and effective manner;
• Conduct microscopic examinations requiring accuracy and concentration when relevant;
• Conduct testing used in the examination of evidence;
• Testify in court as an expert witness.

Interpersonal Skills – Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy, and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers. Ability to work effectively with laboratory, legal, and law enforcement personnel.

Organizational and Prioritization Skills – Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness, or professionalism.

Presentation/Communication Skills – Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations to a variety of audiences and/or individuals.

Research and Comprehension – Must demonstrate the ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information, and be able to utilize and/or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner.

Analytical Reasoning/Attention to Detail – Must demonstrate an ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and be able to identify trends, relationships, and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems.

Technology – Must possess appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems and be able to learn new software/systems. Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).

Confidentiality and Protected Information – Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations, and adhere to applicable laws/statutes/policies related to access, maintenance, and dissemination of information.

Safety – Must be able to work in a safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results/risks, and must comply with safety standards and best practices.

Travel and/or Schedule – Availability for after-hour and weekend work, on occasion, may be required.

PHYSICAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and/or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ambulatory skills, e.g. stand, walk, sit;
• Hand-eye coordination and arm/hand/finger dexterity;
• Ability to exercise visual acuity, e.g., stereoscopic vision sufficient to perform detailed work, perceive minute differences and details, and ability to withstand the strain of continued close work;
• Ability to speak; hear; and exercise visual acuity to perceive minute differences/details, and to withstand the strain of continued close work. Stereoscopic vision sufficient to perform detailed work;
• Ability to transfer weights of twenty-five (25) pounds anticipated for this position;
• Driving requirements: Moderate frequency (10%).

State of Texas Benefits and Retirement Information:

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in the same salary group and state title as their current position will be transferred with no salary change.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in their current salary group with a new state title may receive an increase of no more than 3.4% over their current salary regardless of posted salary.

Salary is contingent upon qualifications and is subject to salary administration and budgetary restrictions.

DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICATIONS WE DO NOT ACCEPT TELEPHONE CALLS. ONLY CANDIDATES SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED.

State of Texas retirees may be rehired for full-time, non-commissioned positions only under very specific circumstances.