New Job Forensic Scientist In Oklahoma

Note: The normal starting pay for this position is the minimum of the pay range listed above. A higher rate of pay may be considered, dependent on the qualifications and experience of the selected applicant and/or the City’s step placement policy.

Note: The Oklahoma City Police Department’s Body Art/Visible Tattoo Policy is available at the following link: https://joinokcpd.com/tattoo-policy. Please ensure you have read the policy, understand the policy, and are willing and able to comply with the policy.

This job classification has been designated as a safety sensitive job classification in accordance with the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act, 63 O.S., § 427.1 et seq., (OSCN 2019), effective August 29, 2019. This means employees in this job classification can be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination if they test positive for marijuana components or metabolites, even if they possess a medical marijuana license.

DEPARTMENTAL INFORMATION

Employees in the Forensic Scientist job classification work in the Police Department’s DNA Laboratory examining biological evidence in support of the Department’s criminal investigations.

JOB SUMMARY

This position is located in the DNA/Serology Laboratory of the Oklahoma City Police Department with The City of Oklahoma City and reports to an immediate supervisor. The Forensic Scientist is a fully trained practitioner who possesses full functional knowledge of the assigned specialty, may provide administrative support, and will frequently function independently. The duties performed require the utilization of previously acquired technical knowledge and skills. Essential job functions include: assisting in evidence collection; conducting Serological and DNA analyses and microscopic examinations of materials and ensuring proper storage; preparing standard and special reports; maintaining report files; assisting in maintaining and repairing a variety of laboratory instruments; and appearing in court as an expert witness. Additional responsibilities include: providing training to less experienced Forensic Scientists and assisting with in-service training to investigators and others regarding forensic evidence handling techniques and procedures. The employee has regular contact with various members of the Police Department, Officer of the Court, and other Forensic Scientists to exchange work related information. The employee reports to an immediate supervisor and is responsible for ensuring that the technical operations and applications performed adhere to governing regulations, reflect sound technical judgment, and comply with all departmental policies and procedures.

VETERANS PREFERENCE

Honorably discharged veterans of the United States Active Duty Armed Forces, National Guard, and Reserve Forces who are not currently employed full-time by the City of Oklahoma City and who meet the qualifications for the position shall be given preference. To receive preference, veterans must submit verification of honorable discharge from the United States military service (Department of Defense Form DD214 or NGB Form 22) prior to the closing date of the vacancy announcement.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Knowledge of and skill in applying biochemistry, molecular biology or forensic science concepts, techniques, and principles.
• Knowledge of operations, services, and activities of a forensic laboratory.
• Knowledge of Serology and DNA analysis techniques with a forensic application.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques of forensic evidence collection and examination.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations and procedures pertaining to the work performed.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory safety procedures.
• Skill in conducting tests involving quantitative, qualitative, and comparative analysis.
• Skill in written and verbal communication using tact and diplomacy.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to compile and analyze data.
• Ability and willingness to make work-related decisions.
• Willingness and ability to appear in court to provide expert testimony.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in biochemistry, molecular biology, forensic science, or related field.
• Possession of a valid driver license (Operator).

DEPARTMENTAL PREFERENCES

• Bachelor’s degree, or higher, in the biological or physical sciences.
• Documented coursework in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics and Statistics/Population Genetics.
• Two (2) years’ experience as a qualified examiner performing forensic biology casework in an accredited laboratory.
• Knowledge of the Open Meetings and Open Records Acts.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily indoors in a laboratory environment.
• Occasional local travel to appear in court as an expert witness and assist in on-site collection of evidence from crime scenes.
• May be required to communicate technical information under cross examination.
• Exposed to fairly loud and steady sounds such as those produced by vacuum pumps, air conditioning systems, and laboratory instruments.
• Possible exposure to biological hazards such as bacteria, viruses, and biological fluids such as blood and saliva.
• Possible exposure to fumes from volatile chemicals.
• Possible exposure to decomposed body tissues and fluids.
• Possibility of minor cuts and bruises from instruments such as scalpels, razors, and glassware.
• Possibility of burns from steam and various chemicals.
• Subject to being on 24-hour call.

Note: Typical City employee working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. However, working hours vary (may require work to begin before 8:00 a.m. and/or end beyond 5:00 p.m., and/or may require work on weekends and holidays), and are subject to change, based on the duties and location of the position and the business needs of the assigned work unit/department.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Strength enough to lift packages, boxes, etc., weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Arm-hand steadiness enough to work with intricate tools, instruments, etc.
• Manual and finger dexterity enough to prepare trace evidence for inspection under a microscope.
• Visual color discrimination enough to detect color differences when working with color sensitive tests and chemicals.

OTHER DETAILS

Note: Civilian employees of the Oklahoma City Police Department must successfully complete a comprehensive background check and polygraph test prior to employment.

Pay Method: City employees are required to receive pay electronically, either via direct deposit or pay card.

Former Employees: If this position is open to external applicants and you are a former employee, you must be eligible for rehire to participate in any selection process. If you are unsure of your rehire status, please contact the Human Resources Department at (405) 297-2530. If your rehire status has been coded “Not Eligible,” “Eligible 3,” or “Conditional,” you will need to request a review of your rehire status through the Human Resources Department’s Employee and Labor Relations Division.

Background Investigation, Drug Testing, Physical Examination: Upon a conditional offer of employment/acceptance of position, the City of Oklahoma City will conduct a criminal history background check for external applicants. Applicants will be provided contact information for any third-party reporting agencies used to collect background information in connection with conditional offers of employment.

If the position accepted includes a driver license (commercial or non-commercial) Job Requirement, the City of Oklahoma City will obtain a Motor Vehicle Report for internal and external applicants.

If the position accepted is safety sensitive and/or a driving position, internal and external applicants will be provided a copy of the City of Oklahoma City's Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy prior to being directed for a drug test.

If the position accepted includes a lift/push/pull/carry Physical Requirement of 25 pounds and greater, internal and external applicants will be directed for a physical examination.

Note: Completion of the supplemental questions is required. Applicant responses to supplemental questions must specifically answer the questions asked. Responses to supplemental questions must be supported by work history/information listed on the application/resume. Applications may not be reviewed if specific responses to supplemental questions have not been provided.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

If you require reasonable accommodation at any time during the hiring process, please notify one of the Human Resources Department Representatives by calling 405-297-2530. The City of Oklahoma City is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity and inclusion. The City of Oklahoma City will not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex (to include sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression), age, genetic information, disability or political affiliation.

Oklahoma City is one of the fastest-growing metros in the United States and is the 20th largest city in the nation. For nearly two decades our residents have continually invested in our community to make it a place people can find belonging, visit and call home. Our employees are at the heart of those investments–delivering essential services our residents expect and creating a strong and thriving city for all people.

Join our team and build a fulfilling career of public service in a diverse and inclusive workplace, alongside talented, hardworking, and dedicated coworkers who provide essential services to thousands of residents and visitors every day. As a City of Oklahoma City employee, you will earn competitive pay, have job stability, grow personally and professionally, and make a difference in your community. To learn more about our departments and the services they provide, go to okc.gov.