Forensic Scientist-Biology SCT, SCI, SCII and SCIII

Identify, examine, analyze, evaluate and interpret evidence in the investigation of crimes; use forensic science in the analysis of evidence in order to reach scientific conclusions in the area of Biology/DNA; effectively communicate results and findings, verbally and in writing, to the appropriate parties.

Refer to the Crime Laboratory Director's chart of standards for specific qualifying criteria.

This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.
• Successful completion of the APD FS - Biology/DNA Training Program before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels.
• Successful completion of the APD FS - Competency Exams and/or Mock Trials before progression to SCI, SC2, SC3 levels.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
• One (1) year of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field.
• Three (3) years of examination training and/or casework.
• OR
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology or related field; and Five (5) years of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and Eight (8) years of examination training and/or casework.
• OR
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in physical science, forensic science, chemistry, biology; and Ten (10) years of examination training and/or casework.
• Additional academic courses required as specified in the FBI QAS CODIS requirements.

• Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
• Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

• All areas of examinations conducted by a Biology/DNA unit
• Theories and techniques of Biology/DNA examinations and related duties
• Advanced molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics principles
• Stereo and comparison microscopes, assorted accessories and equipment used in the Laboratory
• Understand, in detail, the principles and use of current DNA analysis as applied to forensic science
• Use of Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)
• Operations, services, procedures and activities of a forensic laboratory
• Crime scene investigations
• Methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and evaluation
• Operation of forensic instruments, equipment and tools
• Operation of basic power and hand tools
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices
• Pertinent Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations
• Computers and various programs and data bases
• Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM)
• Association of Forensic DNA Analysts and Administrators (AFDAA)
• American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
• American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors – Laboratory accreditation Board, and other applicable quality assurance standards

• Define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
• Recognize anomalies, formulate hypotheses and take appropriate action
• Perform forensic evidence collection, identification and analysis
• Operate a variety of forensic laboratory equipment and instruments in a safe and effective manner
• Work independently in the absence of supervision
• Prepare complex technical written and verbal reports
• Follow verbal and written instructions
• Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships
• Identify similarities and differences between shades, colors, shapes, sounds, forms, textures or physical appearance associated with job related objects, materials and tasks
• Interpret a variety of technical instructions
• Plan, organize and coordinate work assignments
• Communicate clearly and concisely
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation