| Purpose: |
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Under general supervision, this position performs chemical and physical analysis and examinations 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.
- Analyzes evidence.
- Assists and reviews chemists in the evaluation of items.
- Determines the best method or methods to perform analysis.
- Interprets analytical and instrumental test results and prepares reports of analysis.
- Develops and validates instrumental methods for the analysis of drugs.
- Performs daily/monthly diagnostic evaluations and takes corrective action.
- Performs investigations at crime scenes and illicit drug laboratories.
- Assists police investigators in determining appropriate action and resources.
- Analyzes evidence for alcohol concentration.
- Creates and maintains records and/or documents generated according to established Standard Operating Procedure.
- Testifies as a witness in court.
- Leads training of forensic scientists.
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| Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: |
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May provide 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 instrumental analysis including gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, infrared analysis, and ultraviolet analysis.
- Knowledge of ethics; City practices, policies, procedures, statutes, and ordinances; and criminal law.
- Skill in oral and written communication.
- Skill in using computers and related software applications.
- Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
- Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
- Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
- Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
- Ability to train others.
- Ability to recognize and analyze irregular events and use rational judgment to address issues.
- 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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Education and/or Equivalent Experience:
- 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 course, or equivalent, 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),
- college-level course in 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.
- Three (3) years of experience in forensic science and chemistry related casework, qualifying and testifying as an expert witness regarding forensic chemistry, including two (2) years of experience which included successful completion of approved proficiency testing.
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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 twelve (12) months of hire.
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