Forensic Scientist II, Quality Assurance Scientist - Baltimore Police Department

City of Baltimore; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 79,000 - 126,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Baltimore is seeking a Forensic Scientist II to perform complex chemical, biological, physical, or comparative analyses of criminal evidence in the city’s forensic lab. The role involves testing unknown substances, firearms, latent fingerprints, DNA, serology, and trace evidence, under supervision, with rotating shifts and on-call duties.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree in a physical or natural science and may accept advanced degrees or certifications per policy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, criminal justice or related science from an accredited college or university.
• Two years of experience in comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence; examining firearms or identifying latent fingerprints and giving testimony in moot or criminal court.
• Master’s degree with one year of experience in comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence; examining firearms or identifying latent fingerprints including testimony in moot or criminal court.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex laboratory tests and analyses on criminal evidence across disciplines.
• Operate and interpret results from forensic instruments and prepare technical reports.
• Testify in court as required and present exhibits clearly in criminal proceedings.

Skills

Forensic science knowledge

Laboratory analysis

Court testimony ability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, criminal justice or related science

Master’s degree with 1 year experience equivalency

Job description

Salary Range: $78,588.00 - $125,740.00

Annually

Hiring Salary Pay: $78,588.00

Get to Know Us

Welcome to the City of Baltimore! Experience the reward of a fulfilling career and enjoy the added element of excitement in a vibrant, diverse atmosphere. The City of Baltimore offers limitless opportunities to help drive social impact, both on the job and in the community, while serving its citizens. Join us in making Baltimore a great place to live and work. In the City of Baltimore, we hire great people and provide them with the skills and opportunities to grow toward their career aspirations. If you are looking for a career change or interested in learning more, explore our opportunities and benefits programs. We are excited to have you as a part of the City of Baltimore Team! The city offers medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans. This office also supplies wellness programs, support groups, and workshops.

You can learn about our benefits here: https://humanresources.baltimorecity.gov/hr-divisions/benefits

CLASS DEFINITION

A Forensic Scientist II conducts complex levels 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 toolmaking; 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 in this class 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.

Minimum Qualifications

On or before the date of filing the application, each candidate must:

EDUCATION: Have 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: Have 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.

NOTE EQUIVALENCIES: Have 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, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATES: 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.

Knowledges, 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 evident 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.

Background Check

NOTE: Those under final consideration for appointment will be required to authorize the release of criminal conviction information.

Probation

All people, including current City employees, selected for this position must complete a mandatory one-year probation.

Eligibility

Qualified candidates will be considered for vacancies as they arise, for a period of at least six months. The decision of the Director of Human Resources with respect to acceptable minimum qualifications is final.

Education Accreditation

Applicants’ education must be obtained from an accredited institution. Education credentials obtained out of the US must be evaluated for US equivalency. Evaluation agencies information may be obtained at www.naces.org.

Selection Process

All candidates indicating the minimum qualifications on their applications will be placed on the eligible list without further examination. The training and experience of each candidate will be evaluated for appropriateness and quantity. It is essential, therefore, that you give complete and accurate information on your application. Vagueness or omission may prevent you from being considered for this position. Qualified candidates will not be listed in rank order.

Examination Process

Applicants must provide sufficient information on their application to show that they meet the qualifications for this recruitment. Successful applicants will be placed on the employment certified eligible list for at least six months. The examination will consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience as presented in your application and as they relate to the requirements of the position. You may be required to complete supplemental questions to further examine specific Knowledge, Skills and Abilities of the position. Therefore, it is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application.

BALTIMORE CITY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Baltimore City Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The City of Baltimore prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, ancestry, creed, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Applicants requiring accommodation during the hiring process should contact Human Resources directly. Do not attach your request for accommodation to the application.