City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Forensic Services Manager

Under general direction, manages daily activities, operations, and personnel of the Forensic Science Department. Provides expert technical and managerial support to multidisciplinary forensic science sections. Performs department risk management, fiscal and materials management, and program management.

1. Oversees and evaluates daily laboratory operations to support and maintain effective and efficient delivery of quality forensic services.
2. Implements strategies to enhance/maintain employee satisfaction and well-being.
3. Utilizes reporting tools that establish accountability and set expectations, monitor progress, and assess productivity toward achieving department goals and objectives.
4. Participates in development and implementation of Department goals, objectives, and initiatives .
5. Develops, implements, and monitors policies that ensure compliance with City regulations, applicable laws, and all forensic science standards (e.g., ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), Texas Forensic Science Commission (TFSC), Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)).
6. Contributes to preparation and monitoring of department budget; monitors and reports grant-funded program data.
7. Plans and coordinates department training needs.
8. Liaises with customers and stakeholders to ascertain and ensure forensic services meet user need.
9. Identifies and mitigates department risks, including preparation and monitoring of continuity of operations plans. .
10. Responds to major crime scenes and travels to alternate work sights as needed, transports forensic-related materials as needed.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of forensic processes, techniques, and methods (e.g., evidence collection and storage, analysis, interpretation, reporting, and expert testimony) as applicable to the Forensic Science Department.
• Knowledge of forensic quality assurance standards and current technical best practices.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, Local laws, and ordinances governing evidence control and forensic testing.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of accreditation and other governing body forensic standards.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in research, data analysis, report writing, technical trouble shooting, and problem solving.
• Ability to effectively develop, review, and/or critique forensic validation test plans, validation reports, experimental/analytical data, and associated standard operating procedures for technical defensibility and adherence to quality standards.
• Ability to mentor and train others.
• Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in natural science or other field related to the job, plus four (4) years of technical experience in an accredited forensic services laboratory, including two (2) years of experience in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Graduation with an advanced degree (MS or Ph.D) from an accredited college or university with major coursework in natural science or other field related to the job may substitute for the required accredited forensic services laboratory experience up to a maximum of one (1) year AND experience in a managerial capacity up to a maximum of one (1) year.

• Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License.