Police Firearms and Tool Marks Examiner

An employee in this job class performs work of marked difficulty in the analysis of firearms, and related evidence in criminal cases to develop facts useful in courtroom proceedings. Work is performed under the supervision of the Crime Laboratory Section Supervisor. Work involves analyzing weapons and ammunition and testifying as an expert witness. Work is reviewed for accuracy and effectiveness through reports, testimony, and results obtained.

Duty Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with flexibility to meet Department needs.

Per the Department's Collective Bargaining Agreement, newly hired employees who do not possess corresponding experience will start at the base starting pay listed in this posting.

• Examines bullets, bullet fragments, cartridge cases, firearms, and related evidence.
• Identifies makes, calibers, and origins of firearms and weapons.
• Identifies calibers, manufacturers, and origins of ammunition and their components.
• Conducts test firing of firearms and weapons to determine the functioning condition of the submitted firearms.
• Discharges weapons to produce spent ammunition for test firing characteristics and to facilitate microscopic comparisons of bullets and spent shells.
• Enters test shots and evidence from crimes into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
• Performs standardized tests on other articles of evidence using chemical agents, physical testing equipment, and measuring instruments.
• Restores obliterated or defaced serial numbers on serialized items.
• Prepares written reports of all findings and provides testimony as an expert witness at depositions, hearings, and trials.
• Performs maintenance on equipment as required.
• Successfully conducts and completes one proficiency annually in each discipline of expertise.
• Performs related work as required.

 

Note: The example of duties should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and requirements of the job. Individuals may be requested to perform job related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

 

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 chemical agents, 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 the judicial process.
• Considerable skill in using chemical agents, physical testing equipment and measuring instruments in the performance of forensic and ballistics laboratory tests.
• 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.
• Skill and ability to successfully complete assigned proficiency tests.
• Ability to activate and de-activate the Police Crime Laboratory Security System.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, prosecutors, and members of the law enforcement community.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to utilize knowledge and skill of computers and related software for analysis of evidence.

 

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.
• 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.
• Perform other duties as required.

 

CITIZENSHIP:  Citizen of the United States or valid work permit, and apply for citizenship when eligible.
AGE LIMITS:  Eighteen (18) years of age at the time of appointment.
EDUCATION:  Educational requirements and skills will be determined by the position classification.
ARREST: Must be free from conviction of a felony or a Class "A" misdemeanor.
MILITARY:  Must not have a "Dishonorable" discharge or "Bad Conduct" discharge if having served in the military. All "Other Than Honorable" discharges will be reviewed on an individual basis.

 

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.

Salary : $54,309 - $97,822