Data is as of 6/15/2025.
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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Forensic Technician I
FLSA: Standard/Non-Exempt EEO Category: (30) Technicians
Class Code: 10424 Salary Grade: OM8
Approved: Last Revised: July 24, 2024

Purpose:
 

Under close supervision, this position performs entry-level forensic technical work in one of the following disciplines within the Austin Forensic Science Department: Crime Scene, Firearms/Toolmarks, Forensic Biology/DNA, Latent Prints, Seized Drugs, or Toxicology.
Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  1. Performs and successfully completes technical training specific to the forensic discipline and assigned tasks.
  2. Demonstrates competency in areas trained.
  3. Performs forensic technical work in accordance with established procedures and forensic best practices.
  4. Responds to crime scenes if required (applicable only to Property Crime, Crime Scene, or Firearms/Toolmarks disciplines).
  5. Detects, collects, preserves, and maintains integrity and chain of custody of, evidence in the field and/or laboratory.
  6. Visually examines evidence, obtains measurements and/or photographs, documents description and condition of items, and ensures accuracy of information.
  7. Processes evidence in the field and/or laboratory utilizing approved techniques and equipment.
  8. Completes technical reports of observations, documentation, and analysis of work completed in the field and/or laboratory.
  9. Inventories, prepares, maintains and QC tests laboratory materials, supplies and reagents.
  10. Creates and maintains accurate and contemporaneous records and documents.
  11. Learns the requirements of and adheres to the Quality Management System, including adherence to forensic practitioner professional standards as defined by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
  12. May testify as an expert witness in court.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
  None.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of Local, State, and Federal laws and ordinances.
  • Knowledge of basic theory, principles, techniques, and procedures of forensic science.
  • Skill in effective oral and written communication.
  • Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Ability to handle conflict and unpredictable situations.
  • Ability to work in hazardous working conditions, including situations where there is a danger to life, body, and/or health, exposure to hazardous/toxic chemicals, exposure to biological fluids and blood-borne diseases, and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Minimum Qualifications:
 
  • Graduation with an Associate Degree from an accredited college, or university, in a field related to the job.
  • A current Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Technician License may be substituted for the education requirements.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
 
  • Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
  • Must be able to obtain a Forensic Technician License from the Texas Forensic Science Commission in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure Title 1 Chapter 38.01, within 12 months of hire for any discipline requiring a license. Any deficiency in the Forensic Technician License degree or coursework (for the posted discipline) must be obtained at personal expense and prior to applying for the license.

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.