Police Firearms & Toolmark Examiner

Duty Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with flexibility to meet Department needs.

• KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  
• Knowledge of the theory and principles of ballistics as applied in forensic investigation and analysis.
  
• Knowledge of forensic and ballistics laboratory analysis and standardized test procedures.
  
• Knowledge of reagents, physical testing equipment, and measuring instruments used in forensic and ballistic analysis.
  
• Knowledge of the standard practices, methods, and techniques used in the preparation of test results and scientific reports.
  
• Knowledge of firearms, ammunition, and their manufacture.
  
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local criminal laws and regulations related to the examination of physical evidence.
  
• Skill in the proper handling of evidence.
  
• Skill in performing standardized laboratory tests on items designated as evidence.
  
• Skill in analyzing laboratory findings; identifying and comparing bullets, cartridge cases, and other ammunition components.
  
• Skill in preparing and presenting scientific reports in a clear, concise, and accurate manner, resulting from conclusions of laboratory analysis.
  
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize with periodic interruptions to ensure timely task completion.
  
• Adaptable to change.
  
• Ability to seek out knowledge, assimilate training, and develop competence.
  
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  
• Ability to express technical information orally and in writing when reporting results, testifying, or explaining procedures to others.
  
• Ability to utilize computers and related software for analysis of evidence.
  
• Must possess a collaborative spirit and promote team cohesiveness.

• PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  
• Ability to stand for long periods, bend, reach, lift, and carry moderate weight.
  
• Capacity to work in potentially uncomfortable or hazardous environments, including exposure to chemicals, biohazards, and potentially disturbing crime scene elements.
  
• Occasionally work in extreme weather conditions if responding to a scene.

• TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
  
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a baccalaureate or an advanced degree in a natural science or forensic science.
  or
  
• Two (2) years of experience as a forensic examiner in the firearms discipline in an ISO 17025-accredited crime laboratory.
  
  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
  
• The position will require the submission of a buccal swab to the local DNA database
  
• Possess a valid state driver's license.
  
• Ability to operate the Mobile Crime Laboratory Utility Vehicle.
  
• There is a two-year probationary period for employees in this class. The employee must satisfactorily complete all required training and competency testing and is subject to dismissal for failing to complete probation. If the employee is successfully progressing in the job but has not completed training/competency testing, probation may be extended at the discretion of the Chief of Police.
  
  

COMPETITIVE SELECTION PROCESS
Under the regulations of the Police Department, all appointments to the St. Louis County Police Department are made on the basis of a continuously open, competitive hiring process conducted under the supervision of the Personnel Services Unit. Each applicant must successfully complete each stage of the selection process before becoming eligible to proceed to the next step.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The Board of Police Commissioners resolved that subject to all applicable State and Federal statutory or judicial exemptions, all qualified applicants for employment and/or advancement, whether commissioned or civilian, shall be given equal opportunity for consideration, selection, appointment and retention, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or political affiliation.