| Purpose: |
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Under minimal direction, this position promotes and maintains the quality assurance system within the DNA laboratory. This position provides scientifically defensible technical guidance to the DNA laboratory as well as maintain proficiency in and performs the duties of a DNA analyst and/or CODIS Administrator. |
| Duties, Functions and Responsibilities: |
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Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
- Oversees technical operations, maintains, and updates section quality control documents.
- Documents and resolves quality assurance issues according to accreditation guidelines.
- Oversees, documents, and /or reviews validation of new instrumentation, software, and methods.
- Evaluates and participates in training of DNA staff, including the review of transcripts.
- Completes and maintains FBI sponsored auditor training.
- Serves as or supports the DNA laboratory Combined DNA Index System (ODIS) Administrator.
- Analyzes evidence for detection of tissue and body fluids by employing routine to complex forensic biological testing methods and assists other analysts in the evaluation of items to determine optimal analytical methods to employ.
- Interprets analytical and instrumental test results and prepares detailed reports of analysis. Reviews and approves work of other DNA Analysts.
- Creates and maintains records and/or documents generated for each case according to established procedures. Provides instruction and oversight to other analysts in case file preparation.
- Testifies as an expert witness in court regarding DNA analysis, interpretation, and procedures.
- Trains on each technology utilized in the lab unless previously qualified.
- Reviews outsourcing contracts, audits documents, procedures, and corrective actions, which necessary.
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| Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: |
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Provides leadership, work assignments, evaluation, training, and guidance to others.
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| Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: |
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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 the theory and application of genetic and molecular biology to forensic testing.
- Knowledge of instrumental analysis including capillary electrophoresis and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
- Knowledge of City practices, policies, procedures, statutes, ordinances, and governing Federal, State, or Local laws.
- Knowledge of recommendations from national and regional scientific working groups.
- Knowledge of forensic accreditation standards such as ISO 17025:2017 and AR3125 and Texas Forensic licensing standards.
- Knowledge of latest scientific developments in forensic analysis.
- Knowledge of forensic method validation best practices
- Knowledge of quality assurance and equipment maintenance practices.
- Knowledge of hardware and software of Forensic Lab Information Management Systems (LIMS).
- Skill in establishing and improving DNA practices, policies, procedures, safety and training
- Skill in conducting chemical analysis including DNA characterization.
- Skill in analytical reasoning and the ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve complex problems.
- Skill in oral and written communication.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
- Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Ability to effectively develop, review, and/or critique validation test plans, validation reports, analytical data, and associated procedures for technical defensibility and adherence to quality standards.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
- Ability to effectively train others.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with laboratory, legal and law enforcement personnel, City employees, and the public.
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| Minimum Qualifications: |
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- Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Biology, Chemistry, or Forensic Science-related area that includes twelve (12) credit hours covering the following subject areas: Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biology, and Statistics or Population Genetics (at least three (3) credit hours of which must be at the graduate level).
- Plus, a minimum of three (3) years of experience as a qualified DNA Analyst (excluding training)
- Plus, three years (3) of approved ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) (or equivalent) DNA proficiency testing.
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| Licenses and Certifications Required: |
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- Must be able to obtain a Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Analyst License (per 37 Tex. Admin. code Chapter 651 Subchapter C) within a year of hire.
- Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
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