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NASSAU COUNTYTitle:FORENSIC SCIENTIST TRAINEE
Code:630297 2OR
CLASS SPECIFICATIONPage:1 of 2

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES
This is a non-competitive class trainee position. The period of trainee service shall be not less than one year from the date of original appointment; the service to be of such designated length as to satisfy the training and experience requirements for Forensic Scientist I. Upon satisfactory completion of the designated trainee service, which also serves as the probationary period, a Forensic Scientist Trainee shall attain permanent status as Forensic Scientist I.

COMPLEXITY OF DUTIES
Under direct supervision, an employee in this class performs entry-level work and receives specified training in one of the following forensic science specialties: Chemistry/Controlled Substance, Biology/DNA, Toxicology, Latent Prints, Questioned Documents, Firearms, or Trace Evidence. The incumbent performs routine laboratory functions while learning the theory, principles, and techniques of professional work in the chosen specialty area, and is expected to function with increasing independence as knowledge and expertise are gained.

TYPICAL DUTIES
1.Participates, under the direct supervision of a higher level Forensic Scientist in the designated specialty, in a program of study that will enable the incumbent to become proficient in the designated specialty.
2.Assists higher-level personnel with complex analyses, examinations, data gathering and other related activities.
3.Performs preliminary chemical, physical, microscopic and instrumental analysis of physical evidence.
4.Prepares solutions and reagents.
5.Monitors, tests and maintains laboratory equipment in proper working condition, arranging for repair and maintenance as needed, and to ensure proper availability of materials.
6.Learns and assists in handling and receipt of evidentiary material.
7.Learns and assists in performing quality control functions including instrument calibration, reagent preparation, equipment and laboratory decontamination, general laboratory cleanliness and ordering supplies.
8.Learns and assists in using the national DNA database (CODIS) to provide investigative leads to law enforcement professionals.
9.Learns and assists in maintaining records to establish chain of custody, support of all scientific conclusions and document quality control.
10.Learns and assists in providing accurate and objective expert testimony, as required.

*ADA ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
1.Working knowledge of the basic principles of the chemical and biological sciences.
2.Working knowledge of the current laboratory principles, practices, techniques, procedures, instrumentation and safety used in the field of forensic science.
3.Ability to analyze and evaluate information and observations, and to arrive at and construct logical and sound conclusions.

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Title:FORENSIC SCIENTIST TRAINEE
Code:630297 2OR
Page:2 of 2


FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (Continued)
4.Ability to operate standard laboratory equipment.
5.Ability to manage data base records and maintain accurate records.
6.Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
7.Ability to establish and maintain effective professional relationships.
8.Good judgment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Training and Experience
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, or criminalistics, including or supplemented by at least twelve (12) credit hours in chemistry.

Experience for Latent Prints, Firearms/Toolmarks/Ballistics and Questioned Documents Specialty:
Graduation from a New York State or regionally accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree or higher, which must have included at least twelve (12) credit hours in one of the natural sciences, forensic sciences or engineering sciences.

Experience for Biology/DNA Specialty:
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, or criminalistics, including or supplemented by at least nine (9) credit hours in coursework consisting of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology as primary content.*

*Biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology must be the primary component of the classes or courses; coursework completed with titles other than those listed may demonstrate compliance through submission of a student transcript, letter from a university professor verifying course content, or a course syllabus.

Experience for Toxicology Specialty:
Graduation from a New York State or regionally accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree 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.

NOTE:1. Trainee positions are subject to Rules XVII and XIX of the Nassau County Civil Service Rules in relation to the term of probation.
2. Additional continuing education and training may be required as condition of employment.


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