Forensic Chemist

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Job Information

Title:

Forensic Chemist

Market Range:

BI16

Approved Date:

1/15/2021 1:42:33 PM

FLSA:

Exempt

EEO Code:

PROFESSIONALS

Career Level:

P3

Career Level Description:

Professional Level 3

Job Code:

100388

Job Family:

Forensics and Investigations

Sub Family:

Laboratory Analysis

Primary Purpose

Analyzes drug evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies across Wake County to determine the presence or absence of controlled substances. Analyzes blood evidence from DUI and traffic related offenses for blood alcohol levels and the presence of impairing drug substances. Prepares laboratory reports based on analysis findings and testify in court as an expert witness with regards to the forensic analysis of controlled substances. Performs instrument checks and instrument troubleshooting using knowledge of ISO 17025 accreditation standards. Validates instruments and methods and ensures compliance with accreditation standards.

•

Analyzes drug evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies across Wake County to determine the presence or absence of controlled substances. Analyzes blood evidence from DUI and traffic related offenses for blood alcohol levels and the presence of impairing drug substances.

1

35%

•

Performs instrument validation, maintenance and troubleshooting using knowledge of ISO 17025 accreditation standards.

3

15%

•

Performs quality assurance and quality control duties within the lab environment.

4

20%

•

Testifies in court and serves as an expert.

5

10%

•

Conducts report writing and case file preparation.

2

20%

Position(s) may perform other duties in addition to the above as assigned by management.

*IMPORTANT* In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.

Career Level Dimensions

Career Level:

P3

Career Level Description:

Professional Level 3

•

Plans and manages projects that have significant impact on Work Group and Division results OR works as a technical expert within a Medical or Scientific Discipline.

•

Shares insights and analyses that inform new processes, and/or operational plans.

•

Responsible for making improvements in processes, systems, or standards to enhance performance of the Work Group.

•

Works to influence parties within and outside of the Work Group and Division regarding projects and procedures.

•

May be responsible for providing guidance, coaching and training to other employees within the Work Group.

•

Requires advanced knowledge of the Work Group and Division typically obtained through advanced education combined with experience. May have practical knowledge of project management.

•

Within Medical or Scientific Disciplines, typically requires a doctoral degree.

Qualifications

•

Bachelor's degree in Physical, Natural or Forensic Science or related field

•

Four years of experience in sample analysis

•

American Board of Criminalistics Certification required within two years of eligibility or employment - Must maintain current certification thereafter

•

Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record

•

Equivalent education and experience are accepted

•

Ability to arrange and assign work to use resources efficiently.

•

Ability to review and study relevant information from various sources to develop new information.

•

Ability to maintain conditions that ensure a healthy and safe working environment.

•

Ability to accomplish tasks and processes accurately and completely.

•

Ability to firmly adhere to codes of conduct and ethical principles.

An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily to perform this job successfully. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Competencies

Analysis

Examines data to grasp issues, draw conclusions, and solve problems.

Attention to Detail

Thoroughness in accomplishing a task through concern for all the areas involved, no matter how small. Monitors and checks work or information and plans and organizes time and resources efficiently.

Mathematical Reasoning

Uses mathematical techniques to calculate data or solve practical problems.

Operating Equipment

Uses tools, machines, and vehicles to transport goods or people, or to create work products.

Quality Assurance

Produces results or provides service that meets or exceeds organizational standards. May audit the work of others to ensure quality standards are met.

Integrity

Act with honesty, transparency and respect in our interactions with co-workers and those we serve. Adhere, without exception, to laws, policies, procedures and professional standards.

Accountability

Establish high-quality standards for work. Add value. Measure results and hold self and others accountable for making progress toward desired outcomes. Take a logical and data-driven approach to decision-making.

Diversity

Believe that different backgrounds and experiences strengthen the organization and produce better results. Value inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience, and strive to reflect in our workforce the diversity of our community.

Collaboration

Foster a work culture in which different ideas and opinions are encouraged and expected. Listen carefully and speak thoughtfully. Work together toward shared goals with mutual respect and cooperation.

Continuous Improvement

Continuously improve work processes and products. Provide a safe environment to be innovative and creative and try new things. When things don't go as planned, use it as an opportunity to learn, regroup and begin again. Provide time and resources for individuals to grow and develop both personally and professionally.

Wellness

Take proactive steps to be physically fit and healthy, emotionally strong, financially secure and socially fulfilled, while inspiring and empowering others to do the same.

Service Orientation

Commit to making a difference within the community. Actively engage in and enjoy our work. Deliver services that exceed expectations, with courtesy, politeness and sensitivity to the experiences, concerns and feelings of all co-workers and customers.

ADA Checklist

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an 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

Standard ADA Selection:

Office Environment

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting/Carrying 0-10 pounds

X

Lifting/Carrying 10-20 pounds

X

Lifting/Carrying 20-50 pounds

X

Lifting/Carrying 50-100 pounds

X

Pushing

X

Pulling

X

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Handling

X

Grasping

X

Fingering

X

Feeling

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Visual Perception

X

Repetitive Motions

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Memorization/Concentration

X

Learning/Knowledge Retention

X

Preparing/Analyzing Numerical Figures

X

Use of Interfaced Commmunication Devices (Phone, Computer, Radio etc.)

X

Analyzing/Examining/Testing Data

X

Emotional/Behavioral Self-Regulation

X

Interacting with Others

X

Comprehension

X

Organization

X

Decision Making

X

Comprehension

Understand complex problems and collaborate to explore alternative solutions

Organization

Organize and prioritize individual work schedule to manage multiple tasks and/or projects

Decision Making

Make decisions that have an impact on the individual's work

Communication

Communicate in-depth information for the purpose of interpreting and/or negotiating

Extreme cold

X

Extreme heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Computers/Monitors

X