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GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Forensic Scientist I - Toxicology (A / V)

Performs (entry-level) training on laboratory tests, analyses, classifications, comparisons and identifications of all types of physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above. Training involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results, and preparing written opinion reports. Trains on testimony as an expert witness in court as to results of analyses. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Forensic Scientist II-III - Toxicology (A / V)

Performs routine to moderately complex (journey-level) forensic science work. Work involves conducting laboratory tests, conducting analyses, and identifying all types of physical evidence from crime scenes with emphasis and specific recognized expertise in an option or specialty area identified above. Work involves interpreting analytical and instrumental results; establishing and maintaining records; preparing technical reports; and testifying as an expert witness in court. Works under moderate to general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position.

Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met. ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES : Forensic Scientist I : 1. Develops communication skills sufficient to communicate effectively with our agencies and other customers regarding sensitive information related to the offense and / or analyses being done. 2. Learns how to use the laboratory information management system (LIMS) for purposes of evidentiary documentation, chain of custody, analysis, and other metrics within the laboratory. 3. Learns how to prepare reports concerning the preliminary and final results of each analyses performed. 4. Learns how to represent the discipline and the results of analysis in testimony and may serve as an expert witness in court. 5. Attends work regularly and observes approved work hours in accordance with the agency leave and attendance policies 6. Performs other duties as assigned. 7. Reads required training materials as they pertain to general laboratory functions and discipline specific manuals and procedures. 8. Receives instruction on the operation of complex analytical instrumentation. 9. Learns and performs basic analyses of biological specimens for alcohol / volatiles and / or drug content (Austin only). 10. Evaluates analytical data and prepare case reports. 11. Stays current with scientific literature specifically related to toxicology. Forensic Scientist II : 12. Uses complex analytical instrumentation to perform the analysis of blood / urine for alcohol / volatiles and / or analyze body fluids for the presence or absence of pharmaceutical or illicit drugs (Austin only). 13. Evaluates analytical data and prepare case reports. 14. Completes technical review and proficiency tests as required. 15. Stays current with scientific literature specifically related to toxicology. 16. Performs instrument maintenance, troubleshooting, and / or repair, as necessary. Forensic Scientist III : 17. Participates in method validations and assists in the technical aspects of quality assurance duties. 18. Demonstrates knowledge, understanding, and adherence to applicable laws / statutes, regulations, and policies.

Qualifications

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS

Education – Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in a chemical, physical, biological science, chemical engineering or forensic science

• from an accredited university with a minimum of twenty-four (24) semester hours of chemistry AND the following coursework : two (2) semesters of General Chemistry with Laboratory, two (2) semesters of Organic Chemistry with Laboratory, one (1) semester of analytical chemistry (examples – Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Informatics, Mass Spectrometry, Quantitative Analysis, Separation Science, or Spectroscopic Science), and one (1) semester in interpretive science (examples - Biochemistry, Drug Metabolism, Forensic Toxicology, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Physiology, or Toxicology).
• Forensic science programs must be either FEPAC-accredited OR meet the minimum curriculum requirements pertaining to natural science core courses and specialized science courses set forth in the FEPAC Accreditation Standards.

Substitution Note : A Forensic Analyst license may be substituted for the education requirements.

Experience –

Forensic Scientist I - Toxicology (A / V)

None.

Forensic Scientist II - Toxicology (A / V)

A minimum of one (1) year of full-time work experience as a Forensic Scientist I or the equivalent experience in an accredited crime laboratory in the same respective forensic discipline. Documented completion of the training program.

Forensic Scientist III - Toxicology (A / V)

A minimum of three (3) years’ of work experience as a Forensic Scientist II or the equivalent work experience in an accredited crime laboratory in the same forensic discipline. Documented completion of the training program.

Licensure and / or Certification – Must possess a valid driver license from state of residence. Must have a forensic analyst license from the Texas Forensic Science Commission if required by the Code of Criminal Procedure.

Regulatory Knowledge – Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures.

Forensic Science – Thorough knowledge of principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline; of understanding of identification principles. Knowledge of safety procedures for handling hazardous chemicals; of proper evidence handling procedures. Skill in use of laboratory equipment and materials. Ability to :

Interpersonal Skills – Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working / professional relationships with internal / external customers. Ability to work effectively with laboratory, legal, and law enforcement personnel.

Organizational and Prioritization Skills – Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism.

Presentation / Communication Skills – Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations to a variety of audiences and / or individuals.

Research and Comprehension – Must demonstrate ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information, and be able to utilize and / or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner.

Analytical Reasoning / Attention to Detail – Must demonstrate an ability to examine data / information, discern variations / similarities, and be able identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems.

Technology (computers / hardware / software / operating systems) – Must possess appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems and be able to learn new software / systems. Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).

Confidentiality and Protected Information – Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations, and adhere to applicable laws / statutes / policies related to access, maintenance and dissemination of information.

Safety – Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results / risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices.

Travel and / or Schedule – Availability for after-hour and weekend work, on occasion, may be required.

PHYSICAL and / or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS

The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and / or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

State of Texas Benefits and Retirement Information :

Current DPS employees who submit applications for posted DPS positions shall notify their immediate supervisor in writing.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in the same salary group and state title as their current position will be transferred with no salary change.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in their current salary group with a new state title may receive an increase of no more than 3.4% over their current salary regardless of posted salary.

Salary is contingent upon qualifications and is subject to salary administration and budgetary restrictions.

DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICATIONS WE DO NOT ACCEPT TELEPHONE CALLS. ONLY CANDIDATES SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED.

State of Texas retirees may be rehired for full-time, non-commissioned positions only under very specific circumstances.