Forensic Scientist I, II, III

A Forensic Scientist job is available with the City of Fort Worth Police department in the Biology Unit. The candidate must have a Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a biology-, chemistry-, or forensic science-related area with successfully completed coursework (undergraduate or graduate level) in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics and/or population genetics. The scientist shall have a minimum of 9 semester hours (or the equivalent) that cover the subject areas of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology.

The forensic biologist would be responsible for examining physical evidence, performing serological analysis, performing DNA testing, interpreting results, preparing lab reports, reviewing case files, and/or presenting results in court.

The candidate must also meet additional specific coursework requirements as required by the Texas Forensic Science Commission, as well as the FBI Quality Assurance Standards. The incumbent will be hired as a Forensic Scientist I, II, or III based on his/her education, experience, and training in serology, DNA testing, report writing, and technical review.

Experience

Forensic Scientist I –No experience required.

Forensic Scientist II - At least three (3) years of relevant independent discipline-specific casework experience as a qualified Forensic Scientist I (or equivalent) is required.

Forensic Scientist III - At least five (5) years of more complex independent discipline-specific casework experience as a qualified Forensic Scientist II (or equivalent) is required.

The successful candidate will:

Forensic Scientist I

• Perform routine forensic work conducting casework related to the investigation of crimes. Receive training in higher skill level duties and perform forensic examinations under close supervision.
• Process crime scene evidence with forensic detail; analyze and compare evidence to known standards.
• Support the law enforcement community in the investigation of crimes by receiving and maintaining forensic chain of custody; prepare reports that documents findings; provide expert opinions in scientific specialization to investigators; and provide expert witness testimony regarding forensic findings in a court of law.
• Work with chemicals and other hazardous materials. As training progresses, scientists are expected to exercise independence and good judgment.
• Perform proficiency testing and quality control and maintenance of instrumentation.

Forensic Scientist II

• Perform all essential duties and responsibilities of a Forensic Scientist I.
• Collect, preserve and maintain integrity of evidence in the laboratory; examine evidence; accurately documents description and condition of items; maintain chain of custody for evidence.
• Perform technical reviews, as assigned.
• Determine proper testing techniques for each item of evidence.
• Perform a series of complex analytical examinations utilizing biology, chemistry, physics and/or molecular biology theories, where applicable.
• Ensure conformance to good laboratory practice and quality standards; maintain a healthy and safe working environment and proper disposal of waste; perform maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment.
• Interpret examination results and prepare detailed reports on laboratory test results and examinations performed; form conclusions based on test results.
• Consult with and/or provides training to detectives, outside agencies and prosecutors to provide scientific information relevant to the investigation and analysis of evidence.
• Testify in court as an expert witness.

Forensic Scientist III

• Perform all essential duties and responsibilities of a Forensic Scientist II.
• Perform additional Unit responsibilities such as maintaining inventory, ordering supplies, calibrations, and outsourcing.
• Lead and successfully complete more complex special projects assigned and approved by the Unit Supervisor and Forensic Science Division Manager, prior to promotion to a Forensic Scientist III. Assigned projects will benefit the Unit, Lab, or Department.
• Maintain records of more complex evidence sampling, analysis and examination.

All Forensic Scientist (I-III) must adhere to the assigned work schedule as outlined in the Department and City attendance policies and procedures, ensure all behaviors comply with the City’s Personnel Rules and Regulations, perform other duties as assigned. Refer to http://fortworthtexas.gov/hr/job-descriptions/ for complete job descriptions.

The Impact You’ll Have

As a City of Fort Worth Police Department employee, the incumbent for the following Forensic Scientist I-III will contribute to the Department’s strategic goals, mission and vision by performing increasingly complex laboratory analyses on physical evidence, provide scientific consultation, interpret test results, form conclusions, write scientific examination reports, and testify as an expert witness in court. Forensic Scientists II and III perform more complex/difficult work and additionally assist supervisory staff in assigned projects.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Final candidates selected for hire in the Police Department will be subject to a fingerprint/criminal history background check and polygraph examination. Applicants must not have used marijuana during the previous two (2) years, nor illegally used any controlled substances within the last ten (10) years.

• Valid Texas Driver’s License.
• Provide a buccal DNA sample after date of hire.
• Ability to comply with all Texas Forensic Science Commission requirements.
• Must obtain a Texas Forensic Analyst License within six (6) months from hire date for Forensic II & III, or within one (1) year for Forensic Scientist I.

Preference may be given to applicants who possess the following qualifications:

• Higher levels of education and experience as they relate to this position;
• At least four (4) years of experience for a Forensic Scientist II and at least eight (8) years of experience for a Forensic Scientist III
• Currently employed as a Forensic Scientist;
• Expert command of the English language, both oral and written;
• Experience writing professional/technical reports for various audience types;
• Intermediate or advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word, Excel).

WORKING CONDITIONS

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Depending on assignment, positions in this class typically require touching, talking, hearing, seeing, grasping, standing, walking and repetitive motions. Works with hazardous materials and chemicals. May be exposed to hazardous and/or dangerous work environments.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an 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.

Light Work – Depending on assignment, positions in this class typically exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for the Sedentary Work category and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated Light Work.