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

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Forensic Scientist I
FLSA: Standard/Non-Exempt EEO Category: (20) Professionals
Class Code: 10346 Salary Grade: OP4
Approved: Last Revised: July 29, 2024

Purpose:
 

Under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of independent judgment, this position performs entry-level forensic science 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 (entry-level) training on evidence collection/control, laboratory processing, laboratory tests, analyses, classifications, comparisons and/or identifications/associations of all types of physical crime scene evidence applicable and specific to the forensic discipline.
  2. Demonstrates competency in areas trained, successfully completes supervised casework.
  3. Creates and maintains accurate and contemporaneous training records, forensic reports, records, and documents.
  4. Learns how to effectively represent the discipline, associated results of analyses/examinations and other forensic work products in testimony. May serve as an expert witness in court.
  5. 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.
  6. Performs entry-level forensic work in the discipline and areas authorized; such as evidence collection, documentation, processing, analysis, and associated reporting.
  7. Responds to crime scenes and participates in 24/7 on-call rotations if required (applicable only to Crime Scene and Firearms and Toolmarks disciplines).
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.
  • Color vision acuity for select disciplines.
  • Knowledge of basic theory, principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline.
  • Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
  • Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures.
  • Skill in use of laboratory instruments, equipment, and materials.
  • Skill in oral and written communications.
  • Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  • 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.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective communication with City employees and the public.
Minimum Qualifications:
 
  • Graduation with at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in a field related to the job.
  • A current Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Analyst License may be substituted for the education requirements.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
 
  • Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
  • Forensic Analyst License from the Texas Forensic Science Commission as/ if required by the Code of Criminal Procedure Title 1 Chapter 38.01 for the posted discipline, within twelve (12) months of hire. Any deficiency in degree or coursework requirement for the Forensic Analyst License 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.