Forensic Scientist II - Rapid/DNA Analyst - Police Department

About the role

Forensic Scientist II conducts complex level of work in chemical, biological, physical or comparative analysis of criminal evidence in the Forensic Lab of unknown substances and evidence involved in crimes. Employees perform laboratory tests or comparative analyses in one of the specialized forensic disciplines: Firearms and toolmarking; Controlled Dangerous Substances; Toxicology, Serology, DNA, Trace Evidence or Latent Print Examination. Work of this class involves no supervisory duties or responsibilities. Incumbents receive general supervision from a technical supervisor. Employees work a rotating shift and are on‑call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Work is performed in a laboratory where there is exposure to toxic fumes and chemicals, unknown dangerous substances and sharp laboratory instruments. Work requires minimal physical exertion.

Responsibilities

• Conduct complex chemical, biological, physical or comparative analysis of criminal evidence.
• Perform laboratory tests or comparative analyses in specialized forensic disciplines (Firearms and toolmarking, Controlled Dangerous Substances, Toxicology, Serology, DNA, Trace Evidence, Latent Print Examination).
• Provide testimony in moot or criminal court as required.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures when working with toxic fumes, chemicals, dangerous substances and sharp instruments.

Requirements

Education: A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, criminal justice or a related physical or natural science from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Two years of experience in comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence; examining firearms or examining and identifying latent fingerprints including experience in providing testimony in moot or criminal court.

Equivalency: A master’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, criminal justice or a related physical or natural science from an accredited college or university and one year of experience in comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence; examining firearms or examining and identifying latent fingerprints including experience in providing testimony in moot or criminal court.

Licenses/Certifications: Not applicable, except that positions in the Drug Analysis Unit require certification by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to analyze Controlled Dangerous Substances; certification from a National Certifying Board in Latent Print Examination may be required.

All candidates must authorize release of criminal conviction information if under final consideration. Selected applicants must complete a mandatory six‑month probation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of forensic science.
• Knowledge of the application of analytical chemistry, physics, biology and computer technology to forensic science.
• Knowledge of the rules governing the admissibility of evidence in court.
• Knowledge of the techniques and equipment used in identifying handwriting and suspect documents.
• Knowledge of the techniques and equipment used in the various areas of forensic science including serological analysis, trace evidence analysis, DNA analysis, arson investigation and controlled dangerous substances identification.
• Knowledge of the methods and procedures of firearms classification and identification.
• Knowledge of the rules governing the admissibility of firearms evidence in court.
• Knowledge of fingerprint classification technique.
• Knowledge of the techniques and equipment used in identifying latent fingerprints.
• Knowledge of rules governing the admissibility of latent print evidence in court.
• Ability to perform complex laboratory tests utilizing computerized instruments and equipment and to interpret the test results accurately.
• Ability to apply computer software to laboratory specifications and needs.
• Ability to write complex technical laboratory reports.
• Ability to testify effectively in a court of law.
• Ability to prepare and present exhibits in the courtroom.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans.
• Wellness programs, support groups, and workshops.
• More details: City of Baltimore Benefits

Pay

Salary range: $78,588.00 – $125,