Criminalist Level I-IV

Sacramento County · Sacramento, CA · 4 days ago

Management$6k–$8k/moFull-time

This is a continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 8/11/26, 8/25/26 (final).

Conduct forensic laboratory analyses of physical evidence
Evaluate technical data
Investigate crime scenes
Prepare evidentiary reports
Testify in court as an expert witness on forensic analyses and crime scene investigation

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, pharmacology, biology, microbiology, criminalistics/forensic science (with emphasis in a natural or physical science), or a closely related scientific field.
Coursework must have included successful completion of 8 semester / 12 quarter units of general chemistry or biology.
A master’s degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a closely related scientific field may be substituted for one year of required experience for levels II - IV.
Experience: Full-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements.
Proof of educational requirements must be submitted with the application.

Knowledge of principles, methods, materials, standards, practices, equipment, and techniques of forensic science
Principles of chemistry, physics, biochemistry, physiology, zoology, botany, statistics, and photography as related to forensic science
Common types of evidence, such as narcotics, poisons, trace, firearms, and bodily fluids
Applicable laws, rules, and regulations related to evidence, criminal procedure, and crimes
Laboratory safety
English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation
Principles of effective customer service
Ability to perform a variety of difficult chemical, instrumental, and other complex laboratory analyses
Safely operate laboratory equipment and tools, such as microscopes, stereoscopes, centrifuges, gas chromatograph-mass spectrometers, and DNA extraction robots
Interpret federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to physical evidence
Develop and maintain good working relationships with those encountered during the course of work
Promote and enforce safe work practices and handling of hazardous substances
Prepare and analyze complex reports and correspondence
Testify in court
Adhere to established code of ethics
Handle exposure to stressful situations as a result of human behavior
Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
Effectively organize and prioritize work assignments
Maintain accurate and orderly records
Maintain confidentiality
Adhere to all safety practices and procedures

Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, pharmacology, biology, microbiology, criminalistics/forensic science (with emphasis in a natural or physical science), or a closely related scientific field.
Note: A master’s degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a closely related scientific field may be substituted for one year of required experience for levels II - IV.
Note: If the word “experience” is referenced in the minimum qualifications, it means full-time paid experience unless the minimum qualification states that volunteer experience is acceptable.
Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application.
Note: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click here or speak to someone in our office before the cut-off date listed in this notice.

Stand, walk, and/or sit for long periods of time
Move with sufficient personal agility to collect and process evidence at a variety of crime scenes
Manipulate and operate laboratory equipment
Lift and transport items weighing up to 50 pounds
Visually distinguish color, shape, size, number, and picture resolution quality

Exposure to disagreeable elements such as extreme weather conditions, malodorous and/or decomposing samples, blood, bodily fluids, etc.
Work irregular hours, holidays, and weekends at various locations as necessary

Successfully complete competency testing prior to beginning casework in a new core or sub-discipline.
Successfully complete annual Proficiency Testing as required by the Laboratory’s accrediting body.

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