Job Description

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Duties

Biology Unit Assignment: A Forensic Scientist assigned to the Biology Unit performs serological and/or deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis on items of evidence related to police investigations. Duties include: visual examination, microscopic examination, and/or serological testing on a variety of evidence items to examine for the presence of blood, semen, saliva, hair, and other potential biological material; and preparation of samples for DNA analysis, DNA extraction using manual or robotic techniques, quantitation using Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology, PCR for the amplification of DNA extracts using a variety of DNA typing kits, and DNA typing using Capillary Electrophoresis. The incumbent will interpret DNA typing results to include making comparisons to known profiles, making determinations about the inclusion or exclusion of contributors, and making determinations about profiles to be entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Additionally, the incumbent will utilize statistical databases to make determinations about the frequency of occurrence of profiles developed in the laboratory. The incumbent must use significant judgment in determining tests performed and items tested. Incumbents may also design and conduct experiments related to specific case issues. This class performs related duties as required.

Requirements

Forensic Scientist II
Minimum Qualifications Required.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's or advanced degree in Biology/Biochemistry, Chemistry, Forensic Science, or closely related natural science.
• Job related experience may substitute for the degree requirements on a year-for-year basis.
• At least four years’ experience in a crime laboratory as a Forensic Scientist or equivalent; and acceptance as an expert witness in court in at least one forensic discipline.
• In addition, the following disciplines have specific minimum educational requirements.
• Biology Unit Assignment: Successful completion of at least 9 credit hours of coursework in biology-or chemistry-related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis and successful completion of coursework covering statistics or population genetics.

Forensic Scientist III
Minimum Qualifications Required.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's or advanced degree in Biology/Biochemistry, Chemistry, Forensic Science, or closely related natural science.
• Job related experience may substitute for the degree requirements on a year-for-year basis.
• At least seven years’ experience as a Forensic Scientist or equivalent in a recognized laboratory actively engaged in the forensic sciences; experience testifying in court as an expert witness; and state-of-the-art expertise in a specialized area of forensic science.
• In addition, the following disciplines have specific minimum educational requirements.
• Biology Unit Assignment: Successful completion of at least 9 credit hours of coursework in biology-or chemistry-related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis and successful completion of coursework covering statistics or population genetics.

Special Requirements (Forensic Scientist I, II and III).

• Because of the confidential, sensitive nature of information handled, successful completion of a background investigation is required. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date.

Substance Abuse Testing (Forensic Scientist I, II and III).

• Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures.

Preferred/Desirable Qualifications (Forensic Scientist I, II and III).

• Experience as a Criminalist/Forensic Scientist in an internationally accredited laboratory actively engaged in the forensic sciences.

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