City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Forensic Scientist III

Under general supervision, with limited latitude for independent judgment, this position performs complex 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.

1. Performs moderately complex forensic casework and maintains discipline proficiency in all methods within the discipline scope.
2. Independently collects, documents, processes, and/or analyzes evidence, interprets data and results, and writes forensic reports.
3. Participates in proficiency testing.
4. Conducts technical and administrative reviews.
5. Executes equipment or method validation/verification studies.
6. Creates and maintains accurate and contemporaneous forensic reports, records, and documents.
7. Represents the discipline, associated results of analyses/examinations and other forensic work products in testimony. Serves as an expert witness in court.
8. Supports training of new hires.
9. Provides instruction on forensics to law enforcement, attorneys, schools, and other entities
10. Promotes and adheres to the Quality Management System, including adherence to forensic practitioner professional standards as defined by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
11. Responds to crime scenes and participates in 24/7 on-call rotations if required by the discipline (applicable only to Crime Scene and Firearms and Toolmarks disciplines).

• Knowledge of basic theory, principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline.
• Knowledge of forensic instrumentation, processes, techniques, and methods.
• Knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of training methods and public communication techniques.
• 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.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving
• 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.

• Graduation with at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in a field related to the job, plus three (3) years’ experience performing forensic casework in the posted discipline at an accredited forensic laboratory.
• Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
• Graduation with an academic doctorate degree in a related field may substitute for experience up to two (2) years.
• A current Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Analyst License may be substituted for the education requirements.

• 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 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.