City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Forensic Technician II

Under general supervision, this position performs routine 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.

1. Performs forensic technical work in accordance with established procedures and forensic best practices.
2. Maintains competency in areas trained.
3. Responds to crime scenes if required (applicable only to Property Crime, Crime Scene, or Firearms/Toolmarks disciplines).
4. Detects, collects, preserves, and maintains integrity and chain of custody of, evidence in the field and/or laboratory.
5. Visually examines evidence, obtains measurements and/or photographs, documents description and condition of items, and ensures accuracy of information.
6. Processes evidence in the field and/or laboratory utilizing approved techniques and equipment.
7. Completes technical reports of observations, documentation, and analysis of work completed in the field and/or laboratory. May review the work of others.
8. Inventories, prepares, maintains and QC tests laboratory materials, supplies and reagents.
9. Creates and maintains accurate and contemporaneous records and documents.
10. Assists in performing technical work of greater complexity under direction.
11. May testify as an expert witness in court.
12. Promotes, supports, and adheres to the Quality Management System, including adherence to forensic practitioner professional standards as defined by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
13. Supports training efforts, including preparation of training materials.

• 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; including visual and color vision acuity.
• 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.

• Graduation with an Associate Degree from an accredited college, university, or community college, in a field related to the job. Plus three (3) years’ experience as a laboratory technician in an accredited laboratory.
• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
• Graduation with a Master’s or an academic doctorate degree in a related field may substitute for experience up to two (2) years.
• Experience as a forensic technician may substituted for education up to a maximum of two (2) years.
• A current Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Technician License may be substituted for the education requirements.

• 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 twelve (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.