Purpose: |
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Under technical supervision and direction of the Scientific Director, this position performs chemical and physical analysis and examination of evidence using qualitative and quantitative techniques in one or more of the following disciplines: drug and blood alcohol testing. |
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.
- Interprets the basics of analytical and instrumental test results.
- Creates and maintains analysis reports, records, and documents.
- Assists in the maintenance, evaluation, and performance of laboratory instruments.
- Assists in the training of police officers in evidence collection and preservation, proper labeling, and use of the laboratory information system.
- Reviews and approves case work for other chemists.
- Testifies as a witness in court.
- Analyzes drug and alcohol evidence.
- Assists with clandestine lab investigations.
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Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: |
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None.
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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 basic theory and application of organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical techniques, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and physical chemistry.
- Knowledge of instrumental analysis including gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, infrared analysis, and ultraviolet analysis.
- Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
- Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
- Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
- Skill in handling hazardous evidence.
- Skill in oral and written communications.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
- Ability to make rational judgment calls.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
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Minimum Qualifications: |
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- Graduation with at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in chemical, physical, or biological science; chemical engineering; or forensic science that includes a minimum of sixteen (16) semester credit hours, or equivalent, in college-level chemistry coursework above general chemistry coursework that includes at least one (1) three-semester credit hour, or equivalent, course in all of the following:
- organic chemistry,
- college-level analytical chemistry (e.g. Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Informatics, Instrumental Analysis, Mass Spectrometry, Quantitative Analysis, Separation Science, or Spectroscopic Analysis),
- interpretive science (e.g. Biochemistry, Drug Metabolism, Forensic Toxicology, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Physiology, or Toxicology).
- Coursework must also include one (1) three-semester credit hour (or equivalent) college-level statistics course from an accredited university or a program approved by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
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Licenses and Certifications Required: |
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- Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
- Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Analyst License (per 37 Tex. Admin. code Chapter 651 Subchapter C), plus completion of all required Commission defined coursework for the discipline. The Toxicologist (Interpretive) License must be obtained within 12 months of hire.
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