Forensic Scientist

at Ada County Sheriff's Office in Boise, Idaho, United States

Job Description

Collects, preserves, and transports physical evidence from crime scenes, conducts laboratory tests, performs analysis to compare and identify physical evidence, prepares technical reports, and testifies in court proceedings.  This position is located in the Ada County Sheriff’s Office.

Forensic Scientist I

• Collects, secures, and maintains evidence and keeps accurate records;
• Maintains safe chemical handling practices;
• Utilizes physical and chemical processes to identify and evaluate evidence;
• Analyzes scientific data to form opinions and interpretations;
• Photographs crime scenes, evidence, and individuals;
• Responds to crime scenes;
• Testifies in court proceedings; 
• Prepares reports;
• Provides review of technical and quality procedures;
• Works and maintains eligibility to work all shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, whether assigned or on an as needed or on-call basis; and
• Participates in annual proficiency testing, inventories, and internal audits.

• Forensic Scientist I functions;
• Assists in training other Forensic Scientists.

• Forensic Scientist II functions; 
• Acts as a discipline technical leader;
• Creates and updates analytical methods;
• Validates new procedures used in the lab;
• Creates and maintains training plans;
• Ensures awareness of current and new techniques and technologies related to the forensic discipline.

• Assists with estimating budgetary requirements;
• Performs related functions as required.

Forensic Scientist I

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science or a related field;
• Knowledge of State, Federal, and County laws, rules, and ordinances, and knowledge of the criminal justice system;
• Knowledge of the scientific laboratory methods, equipment, processes, and procedures specific to crime scene and evidence analysis; 
• Knowledge of hazards and safety practices associated with chemicals and infectious diseases; 
• Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation; 
• Skill in using modern office equipment;
• Ability to effectively respond to law enforcement officials, court officials, victims, and other members of the general public; 
• Ability to perform duties independently and in a self-directed manner; 
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions; 
• Ability to interpret a variety of technical instructions; 
• Ability to work accurately with attention to detail;
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with the assigned supervisor and others;
• Ability to understand directions and communicate verbally and in writing; 
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

• Meets requirements and performs functions of a Forensic Scientist I:
• Have at least two years of experience as a Forensic Scientist;
• Have successfully completed and is competency tested in at least one forensic discipline.

• Meet requirement and performs functions of a Forensic Scientist II:
• Have at least five years of experience working as a Forensic Scientist;
• Holds certification in at least one forensic specialty;
• Perform duties as a technical lead for at least one forensic specialty.

• Must possess and maintain a valid Idaho driver’s license;
• Must wear the uniform of a non-commissioned deputy sheriff;
• Must pass an oral examination, polygraph examination, credit check, and background check prior to hire;
• This position is required to be on-call in order to perform the primary job responsibilities;
• This position has been designated safety sensitive and therefore the incumbent is subject to random drug testing.

• This position requires the incumbent to work in an office environment, laboratory, and in the field;
• Incumbent may be subjected to a variety of chemicals and infectious diseases;
• Incumbent is required to visit crime scenes and be exposed to unpleasant situations and environments;
• Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs.