Criminalist

Definition

Performs physical and chemical analyses required in scientific criminal investigations.

Classification Standards

Positions allocable to this entry level class typically report to a Supervising Criminalist and work under close supervision and guidance in each section of a forensic science or criminalistics laboratory, receiving work of a progressively responsible nature and of broadening scope as capability develops and complete familiarity with all phases of laboratory analysis is gained. Incumbents in this class are characterized by their participation in an extensive, mandatory in-service training program designed to teach the techniques and procedures used in forensic science or criminalistic laboratories and, through classroom instruction and on-the-job training, prepare incumbents for higher level criminalistic positions. Incumbents are required to respond to crime scenes at any time during their assigned shift, as well as during off duty hours, and will be required to testify in court regarding their analyses. Upon completion of a one year probationary period within Technology and Support Division, and with a rating of competent, incumbents may be assigned to any section or regional laboratory within Scientific Services Bureau.

Essential Job Junctions

• Essential Job Functions Performs physical and chemical analyses of evidentiary material such as blood, narcotics, drugs, hairs, fibers, metals, tool marks, and body fluids by making observations; applying appropriate scientific techniques such as presumptive tests, confirmation tests, evaluation of class characteristics; etc. in order to provide information to assist with investigations.
• Uses microscopic techniques by preparing samples; observing sample features; documenting optical characteristics; etc. in order to provide class characteristic information or to make an identification.
• Uses comparison macrophotography by evaluating available images; selecting appropriate images; documenting class and individual characteristics; etc. in order to provide findings regarding associations, exclusions, or identifications.
• Uses chromatography by preparing samples; operating instruments; interpreting and evaluating data; etc. in order to identify and/or quantitate chemical compounds.
• Uses sprectrography by preparing samples; operating instruments; interpreting and evaluating data; etc. in order to identify chemical compounds.
• Prepares written reports and displays for court testimony by memorializing examination findings in order to communicate information to intended audiences.
• Provides testimony by answering questions; providing background information on test methods; qualifying opinions and conclusions; etc. in order to present scientific findings in court.
• Responds to crime scenes by examining, documenting, collecting, and interpreting, physical evidence in order to preserve evidence for subsequent testing.
• Conducts research by reviewing technical journals, textbooks, chemical manuals, and other source materials in order to determine the best methods of performing analytical testing.
• Preserves physical evidence by observing, documenting, sampling, etc. in order to allow for subsequent testing.

For additional information and to apply online, please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacounty?keywords=criminalist%20.