This is full performance forensic laboratory work performing microscopic and macroscopic examinations of organic and biological substances for the purpose of identifying, classifying and comparing evidence involved in criminal cases. Employees in this class examine physical and trace evidence obtained from crime scenes and provide information on laboratory findings for presentation in criminal trials. Work includes testifying in court as to results and nature of testing performed and training lower level laboratory technicians in the techniques of criminalistics laboratory work. Work is performed under the general supervision of a technical supervisor, and involves some disagreeable aspects.

ALLOCATING FACTORS: (The following conditions must be met for a position to be approved for this class.)

• The position must perform full performance level forensic laboratory work.
• The position must perform the full scope of microscopic and macroscopic examinations of organic and biological substances for the purpose of identifying, classifying and comparing evidence involved in criminal cases.
• The position must perform the work in the Police Department.

• Performs a variety of chemical and physical tests on fresh blood samples to determine group and sub-group; tests dried blood stains by the absorption elution technique to identify and type blood found on fabric and other material; determines blood types from organic fluids such as semen, saliva and urine by use of absorption inhibition testing; identifies various enzymes in blood, serum and other biological fluids by means of electrophoresis techniques for identification and comparison purposes; performs a variety of chemical and biological tests on specimens to identify presence of human biological fluids such as blood, semen or saliva; interprets test results to determine their significance and/or the need for retesting or further testing.
• Prepares rape kit samples for microscopic analysis; examines stained and mounted specimens for presence of spermatozoa; mounts specimen and makes microscopic examinations of hair, fibers, and other samples such as fingernails, vegetation and paint to determine kind and origin; mixes and prepares anti- sera and reagents for use in biochemical testing; evaluates and prepares specimens for DNA typing.
• Prepares reports of laboratory tests conducted; tracks physical evidence via computer.
• Testifies in court as to results and nature of testing in civil and criminal cases; explains the meaning of test results, and describes in lay person's terms testing procedures and techniques to court members; explains laboratory results to investigators and attorneys as required.
• May participate with forensic scientists in the training of lower level technicians in forensic laboratory techniques and analysis.
• May perform a limited range of chemical testing procedures and techniques for use in the analysis of controlled substances evidence.
• Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• the practices, procedures and techniques used to prepare, examine and analyze forensic laboratory specimens.
• the principles, methods and techniques involved in applying the disciplines of chemistry and biology to tests performed.
• the rules of evidence and methods used in presenting evidence in court.
• the use of modern instrumentation in the areas of microscopy and electrophoresis as applied to tests performed.

ABILITY TO:

• perform laboratory tests in accordance with prescribed criminalistics procedures and to make accurate observations, and analyze and interpret test results accurately.
• adapt certain established criminalistic laboratory methods to meet specific problems.
• write and interpret scientifically accurate and comprehensive reports of tests conducted.
• effectively present information in court.
• instruct lower level technicians in forensic laboratory techniques and analysis.
• enter and retrieve information from a computer.

EDUCATION

• Completion of an associate degree or equivalent certificate program in medical laboratory technology from an accredited college, university or technical institute.

• Two years of experience as a laboratory technician in a forensics laboratory performing routine chemical, biological and immunological tests and interpreting test results.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.

PAY RANGE: EP12
Class Established: 9/1965

Latest Spec. Revision:
  CSC - 6/1997 ; Ad Board - 9/1997

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