City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Forensic Supervisor - Chemistry/Toxicology

Under general direction, this position supervises and coordinates the daily activities of personnel in support of the Forensic Bureau for one of the following disciplines: (a) Seized Drug Analysis/Chemistry or (b) Toxicology.

1. Processes crime scenes; and ensures proper collection, preservation, and documentation of evidence, including hazardous evidence.
2. Analyzes evidence by employing forensic testing methods.
3. Interprets analytical and instrumental test results, writes detailed reports of analysis.
4. Supervises the maintenance of laboratory instruments.
5. Supervises and performs proficiency tests and other quality assurance duties.
6. Supervises the evaluation and review of laboratory reports and work records.
7. Assures quality of work in the section.
8. Establishes, reviews, and interprets standard operating practice, policy, and procedure.
9. Provides input regarding laboratory's needs, long range goals, plans, and resource management.
10. Monitors and ensures section operates within appropriated budget.
11. Acts as department's liaison with police investigators and prosecuting attorneys to ensure full utilization of the section functions and expertise.
12. Trains police personnel in evidence collection and preservation.
13. Participates in continuing education.
14. Participates in the development and implementation of new forensic methods and programs.
15. Oversees the training of new forensic scientists in analysis methods and crime scene investigation.

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

• Considerable knowledge of the principles of forensic chemistry/toxicology analysis.
• Knowledge of appropriate laboratory equipment, scientific instrumentation, and physical examinations as applied to the laws governing criminal investigations.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Skill in establishing and improving practices, policies, and procedures; and safety and training manuals for the section.
• Ability to obtain, interpret, and present results of examination and analysis.
• Ability to plan, organize, develop, perform, and supervise original research in the development of new and improved methods of analysis and laboratory procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.

Education requirements per discipline:

(a) Seized Drug Analysis/Chemistry:

• 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.

(b) Toxicology:

• 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),
  • interpretive science (e.g. Biochemistry, Drug Metabolism, Forensic Toxicology, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Physiology, or Toxicology).

Five (5) years of experience in forensic science.

• Valid Texas Class C Driver License.
• Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Analyst License (per 37 Tex. Admin. code Chapter 651 to add Subchapter C) must be obtained within twelve (12) months of hire.

Based on the position being filled, the following skills or certifications may be required:

• American Board of Forensic Toxicology Certification, International Association for Chemical Testing Certification, or equivalent certification.
• Successful completion of at least one year of ASCLD/LAB approved proficiency testing.