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NASSAU COUNTYTitle:FORENSIC SCIENTIST I (TOXICOLOGY)
Code:630304 2PE
CLASS SPECIFICATIONPage:1 of 3

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES
This is the entry-level class in the Forensic Scientist (Toxicology) series. The work involves responsibility for conducting routine laboratory tests and procedures for the examination and analysis of blood, tissue and related evidence to detect the presence and nature of toxic substances. This position differs from Forensic Scientist II (Toxicology) by virtue of it being an entry-level position, the training requirements of the incumbents, performance of routine tasks and the decreased independence of work; performs related work as required.

TYPICAL DUTIES
1.
Prepares tissues and body fluids for routine analysis by appropriate extraction or other processes.
2.
Analyzes and performs routine chemical, physical, microscopic and instrumental examinations of tissues, fluids, and other evidence to detect and quantify gases, volatile compounds, heavy metals, drugs, and other chemical substances using techniques such as (but not limited to) gas, thin-layer and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, immunoassay, flourometry, and infrared, visible and ultraviolet spectrophotometry.
3.
Meets with attorneys, investigators and other related personnel regarding approaches to analysis and results in pretrial conferences.
4.
Participates in public health preparedness activities, scientific meetings, seminars and other training as assigned.
5.
Keeps records of observations and notes, and issues reports of test results upon consultation with higher level Forensic Scientists in this series.
6.
Testifies in court regarding laboratory analyses and the significance of the results as required.
7.
Performs housekeeping tasks as required, including maintaining laboratory supplies and reference materials.
8.
Participates in internal and external proficiency testing programs.
9.
May assist in the inventory, maintenance, storage, and disposition of evidence.
10.
May respond to crime scenes and assist in field examination and the documentation and collection of evidence.

*ADA ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
1.
Working knowledge of the principles and practices of analytical chemistry as it applies to the field of forensic toxicology.
2.
Working knowledge of the principles, practices, instruments, and methods used in chemical and toxic substance analysis as applied to the collection and analysis of biological samples and criminal evidence.
3.
Working knowledge of laboratory techniques, analysis and procedures, including various types of spectroscopy, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectrophotometry.

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Title:FORENSIC SCIENTIST I (TOXICOLOGY)
Code:630304 2PE
Page:2 of 3

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Continued)
4.
Working knowledge in the use of standard laboratory equipment, including microscopes, spectrophotometers, spectrographs, chromatographs, mass spectrometers and computer-based data systems.
5.Working knowledge of techniques used to isolate drugs/chemicals from biologic samples including liquid/liquid and solid phase extraction.
6.
Working knowledge of the penal law and rules of evidence as they relate to the technical analysis and handling of evidence.
7.
Working knowledge of current developments and trends in crime detection and investigative techniques.
8.
Skill in the use of laboratory equipment related to toxicological analysis.
9.
Skill in the application of laboratory and scientific research practices and techniques to toxicological analysis.
10.
Ability to apply scientific procedures, methodology, and formulas to assigned work.
11.
Ability to analyze and evaluate information and observations, and to arrive at and construct logical and sound conclusions.
12.
Ability to explain laboratory analysis techniques, procedures and theories in a clear and concise manner so that non-scientists may understand the significance of the results obtained using these procedures.
13.
Ability to operate and perform routine maintenance on complex laboratory equipment.
14.
Ability to manage data base records and maintain accurate records.
15.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
16.Ability to prepare and deliver legal testimony accurately and be cross-examined and remain composed in court.
17.Ability to establish and maintain effective professional relationships.
18.Good judgment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Training and Experience
1.Graduation from a New York State or regionally accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree or higher in a natural science, a forensic science, an engineering science, biomedical technology, pharmacology, criminalistics or toxicology, including or supplemented by at least twelve (12) credit hours in chemistry and one (1) year of full-time or its part-time equivalent experience in a forensic laboratory conducting toxicological analysis;
OR
2..Satisfactory completion of one (1) year as a Forensic Scientist Trainee with Toxicology specialty.


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Title:FORENSIC SCIENTIST I (TOXICOLOGY)
Code:630304 2PE
Page:3 of 3
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Continued)
Training and Experience
NOTE:Incumbents must pass a competency test prior to assuming casework responsibility, and must pass a proficiency test annually, in accordance with accreditation requirements.

Additional continuing education and training may be required as condition of employment.

8/13/09
593/09
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