Job Information
Sacramento County Criminalist I-IV (Firearms and Tool Mark Examiner) *Revised in Sacramento, California
Criminalist I-IV (Firearms and Tool Mark Examiner) *Revised
Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sacramento/jobs/newprint/4246039)
Apply
Criminalist I-IV (Firearms and Tool Mark Examiner) *Revised
Salary
$66,523.68 - $141,294.96 Annually
Location
Sacramento, CA
Job Type
Permanent Full-Time
Job Number
27776-B
Department
District Attorney
Opening Date
12/08/2023
Closing Date
6/7/2024 5:00 PM Pacific
Description
Benefits
Questions
The Position
Come join one of Forbes Magazine's Best Employers!
This is a limited-continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on:
1/8/2024, 2/9/2024, *3/8/2024, *4/5/2024, *5/3/2024, *6/7/2024 (Final)
Level 1 - $5,543.64 - $6,737.25/month
Level 2 - $7,398.50 - $8,992.33/month
Level 3 - $9,215.00 - $11,202.08/month
Level 4 - $9,688.33 - $11,774.58/month
Criminalists conduct forensic laboratory analyses of physical evidence, investigate crime scenes, and testify in court as an expert witness on the subjects of forensic analyses and crime scene investigation.
The Criminalist I-IV class series is utilized in a variety of ways within the County of Sacramento District Attorney’s Laboratory of Forensic Services. This eligible list may be used to fill multiple vacancies, as well as other vacancies as they become available. The current Criminalist vacancy we are recruiting to fill is for an experienced Firearms and Toolmark Examiner at the Criminalist II level or higher. Duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Evaluate firearm related evidence using accepted techniques to classify, compare, and identify a variety of firearms, cartridges, cartridge cases, bullets, and other related components utilizing microscopic techniques and instrumentation which may include a comparison microscope, stereomicroscopes, digital microscope, and conventional photography. Perform functionality examinations on submitted firearms and make source determinations for fired and cycled ammunition components. Document findings, prepare technical written reports, and effectively communicate highly complex scientific material to law enforcement, attorneys, and other agencies and individuals who do not have advanced knowledge of the subject matter. Prepare exhibits and provide expert testimony concerning the significance of examinations conducted. Stay current with new and emerging scientific advancements, relevant court decisions, and legal challenges related to areas in forensic science.
Candidates who have experience in footwear/tire track comparisons and acting as a lead crime scene analyst are highly desirable, but not required for this position.
Candidates with one or more Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) certifications are also desired, but not required for this position.
Firearm Evidence Examination and Identification (FA-AFTE)
Toolmark Evidence Examination and Identification (TM-AFTE)
Gunshot Residue Evidence Examination and Identification (GSR-AFTE)
In addition to the posted salary for this class, the County of Sacramento offers the following incentives and differentials:
EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE:
Employees in the Criminalist class will become eligible for a two and half (2.5%) percent differential for possession of any one of the following certifications. This incentive is not cumulative. The County will also pay for the annual recertification of the following certifications:
American Board of Criminalistics
American Board of Forensic Toxicology
Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners
International Association for Identification
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS PAY DIFFERENTIAL:
An employee in the Crime Laboratory of the District Attorney’s Office who is assigned in writing by the appointing authority to serve as a lead on the Crime Scene Team shall receive a 10% pay differential. This differential shall be based on the employee’s standard hourly salary rate and shall be payable only while acting in the lead capacity.
SAFETY OFFICER, CRIME LABORATORY DIFFERENTIAL:
The safety officer for the Crime Laboratory shall receive a pay differential of 5.0% of the employee’s standard hourly salary rate. There is typically one individual assigned to this task at a time within the laboratory.
DNA TECHNICAL LEAD DIFFERENTIAL:
Any Criminalist and/or Supervising Criminalist assigned, in writing, to serve as a DNA Technical Leader shall receive a 5% pay differential of the employee’s standard hourly salary rate.
LONGEVITY PAY DIFFERENTIAL:
Permanent employees who reach ten (10) years of full-time service shall receive a 2.5% differential. Less than full-time permanent employees shall become eligible upon working the equivalent of ten (10) years of full-time service.
CASH FOR ACCRUED VACATION LEAVE:
Employees can “cash-in” up to forty (40) hours/year vacation after ten (10) years of full-time continuous service and 240 hours accrued vacation per the terms of County policy 306 “Cash for Accrued Vacation Leave”.
Examples of Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of
Principles, methods, materials, standards, practices, equipment, and techniques of forensic science
Principles of chemistry, physics, biochemistry, physiology, zoology, botany,
statistics, and photography as related to forensic science
Common types of evidence, such as narcotics, poisons, trace, firearms, and explosives
Laws of evidence, criminal procedure, and crimes
Laboratory safety
Ability to
Perform a variety of difficult chemical, instrumental, and other complex laboratory analyses
Interpret federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to physical evidence
Develop and maintain good working relationships with those encountered during the course of work
Promote and enforce safe work practices and handling of hazardous substances
Prepare and analyze complex reports and correspondence
Testify in court
Adhere to established code of ethics
Handle exposure to stressful situations as a result of human behavior
Employment Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, pharmacology, biology, microbiology, criminalistics (with emphasis in chemistry), or a closely related scientific field. Coursework must have included successful completion of 8 semester / 12 quarter units of general chemistry and 3 semester / 4.5 quarter units of quantitative analysis.
Note: A Master's degree in criminalistics, chemistry, biology, or a closely related scientific field may be substituted for one year of required experience.
Note: The level at which initial appointment to the class of Criminalist is made and/or movement from one level to the next is at the discretion of the appointing authority, in accordance with budget provisions, workload, and organizational needs, provided the experience requirements are met.
Note: The word "experience" referenced in the minimum qualifications means full-time paid experience unless the job announcement states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements.
Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application. Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click here (http://www.personnel.saccounty.net/Documents/EducationalDocumentsGuidelines.pdf) or speak to someone in our office before the final filing date listed in this notice.
General Requirements
Driver's License:
Some positions in this class may require a valid California Driver (Class C) License prior to appointment. Failure to maintain a valid License may constitute cause for termination from this class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Certificates/licenses:
Incumbents appointed to positions whose duties include the analysis of blood alcohol are required to obtain a Forensic Alcohol Analyst / Supervisor License issued by the State of California within one year of appointment date.
Note: Failure to obtain and maintain the appropriate valid Forensic Alcohol Analyst / Supervisor License may constitute cause for personnel action, up to and including dismissal from the class, under applicable Civil Service Rules or applicable bargaining agreement.
Criminal History and Background Investigation:
Candidates must pass a criminal history and background check, which may include contact of prior employers and personal references. Candidates will be fingerprinted through the California Department of Justice Live Scan process for purposes of search of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record. A set of fingerprints is furnished to the California Department of Justice and to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
All positions require incumbents to:
Stand, walk, and/or sit for long periods of time, such as while conducting analysis in the laboratory or processing a crime scene
Move with sufficient personal agility to collect and process evidence at a variety of crime scenes, such as clandestine drug laboratories, automobiles, trash bins, etc.
Possess sufficient manual dexterity to manipulate and operate laboratory equipment
Lift and transport items weighing up to 50 pounds, such as bags and/or boxes of evidence
Visually distinguish color, shape, size, number, and picture resolution quality
Withstand exposure to disagreeable elements such as extreme weather conditions, malodorous and/or decomposing samples, blood, bodily fluids, etc.
Competency / Proficiency Testing:
Incumbents are required to successfully complete competency testing prior to beginning casework in a new core or sub-discipline.
Incumbents are required to successfully complete annual Proficiency Testing as required by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors / Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD / LAB).
Equipment Used:
Incumbents are required to safely operate the following equipment in the performance of duties:
County-owned vehicles
Laboratory equipment and tools, such as microscopes, centrifuges, gas chromatograph-mass spectrometers, etc.
Office equipment, such as telephones, copiers, and fax machines
Hours of Work:
Incumbents may be required to work irregular hours, holidays, and weekends at various locations as necessary.
Probationary Period
The probationary period for this classification is twelve (12) months.
Application and Testing Information
APPLICATION
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit an online County of Sacramento employment application by 5:00 PM on the posted cut-off date. Click here (http://agency.governmentjobs.com/sacramento) to apply.
County of Sacramento
Department of Personnel Services
Employment Services Division
700 H Street, Room 4667
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone (916) 874-5593; 7-1-1 California Relay Service
Email EmployOffice@Saccounty.net
Inter-Office Mail Code: 09-4667
www.SacCountyJobs.net
Employment applications and all documentation requested in this announcement must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date.
Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date.
Your application should highlight all relevant education, training, and experience, and clearly indicate how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position as of the cut-off date.
Application information must be current, concise and related to the requirements in this job announcement. You may only apply for this recruitment once. Duplicate and incomplete applications will be disqualified.
A resume may be included with your application, however it will not substitute for the information requested on the application.
SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE
Applicants are required to provide a full and complete response to each supplemental question. The Supplemental Questionnaire is located in the tab marked "Supplemental Questions". Please be descriptive in your response.
Note: Responses of "See Resume" or "See Application", or copy and paste of work experience are not qualifying responses and will not be considered.
Supplemental Questionnaires must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date.
The supplemental questions are designed to elicit specific information regarding a candidate's experience, education, and training. Responses should be consistent with the information on your application and are subject to verification.
Please provide place of employment, pertinent dates, and concise, descriptive and detailed information for each question.
If a job included responsibilities applicable to several questions, separate the different functions of the job to answer all the questions completely.
Resumes or referral to the application or other questionnaire responses will not be accepted in lieu of completing each question.
If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question.
For many individuals, it is more efficient to develop responses to the supplemental questions in a word processing document and then paste them into the final document to be submitted. Changes or corrections to your Supplemental Questionnaire cannot be made once your application packet has been submitted.
If the Supplemental Questionnaire is used in the Formula Rate exam, failure to complete all of the questions or incomplete responses will result in a lower score. While scoring the Supplemental Questionnaire, the candidate's application and/or attachments will not be reviewed, therefore, a candidate's responses to the questions should be accurate, thorough, detailed, and complete.
FORMULA RATE EXAMINATION (Weighted 100%)
All candidates meeting the minimum qualifications by the cut-off date will have their Supplemental Questionnaire scored in the Formula Rate Examination.
This examination will evaluate the relevance, level, recency, progression and quality of candidate's education, training and experience. The candidate's application or other materials will not be included in this examination. Therefore, the candidate's responses to the supplemental questionnaire should be thorough, detailed and complete. The score from the Formula Rate Examination will determine the ranking on the eligible/employment list for this job.
All candidates competing in the testing process will receive written notice of their examination results by email. Notices can also be accessed in their governmentjobs.com inbox. Applicants achieving a passing score will be placed on the eligible list in rank order. The rank is determined by the test score attained from the examination.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Click here (https://personnel.saccounty.net/Pages/EmploymentServicesFAQs.aspx) for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
For information regarding County jobs:
- www.saccountyjobs.net
Applicants requesting reasonable accommodations during employment examinations: For more information, please review the Job Applicant Exam Reasonable Accommodation Information (https://personnel.saccounty.net/Pages/DCOJobApplicantExamReasonableAccommodation.aspx) and submit an Employment Exam Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
As an employee of the County of Sacramento, there will be a variety of benefits available to you. These benefits currently include: health, dental and life insurance; flexible spending account options for dependent care and unreimbursed dental and/or medical cost; and an employee assistance program (EAP).
GENERAL BENEFITS:
Most employee benefits are similar to the following for all County employees. However, some benefits differ, depending on the employee representation unit to which the employee's job classification is assigned. Information about the exact benefits applicable to a particular job classification may be obtained from the Sacramento County Department of Benefits or by visiting www.saccountyjobs.net.
TEMPORARY POSITIONS:
Most benefits do not apply to temporary positions. The explanations of benefits applies to employees in regular positions.
SALARY STEP INCREASES:
The beginning salary and the top of the salary range are usually shown on the job announcement. Upon satisfactory service, salary increases of approximately 5% are given annually until the top of the salary range has been attained.
PAY:
All employees are paid bi-weekly via direct deposit into the employee's bank account. The pay period covers fourteen (14) calendar days, starting on a Sunday and ending on the second Saturday thereafter. Salaries are generally paid on the Friday following the end of the pay period. Employees can set up their direct deposit and access their pay information via Employee Self Service in MySacCounty.
VACATION:
Generally, vacation with pay begins at 10 days annually. With increase over a period of years, the maximum annual vacation with pay is 25 days.
HOLIDAYS:
14.5 holidays per year as recognized.
SICK LEAVE:
Equivalent to 15 days annually, unlimited accumulation. Upon retirement, unused sick leave is converted to retirement service credit.
PARENTAL LEAVE:
Entitles a regular County employee, with at least one year of continuous employment, to schedule a paid parental leave of up to 160 hours upon the birth or during the process of an adoption of a minor child. Parental leave shall be approved by the employee's appointing authority, except where the granting of the parental leave request would unduly interfere with or cause severe hardship upon department operations.
TUITION REIMBURSEMENT:
Dependent upon union agreements, regular County employees may be eligible to receive Tuition Reimbursement. The costs for course tuition/registration fees and required books/supplies are eligible for reimbursement. Tuition reimbursement amounts may vary depending upon union agreement.
RETIREMENT:
Social Security and Sacramento County Employees' Retirement System coverage.
HEALTH INSURANCE:
The County offers a variety of health plan design options to fit individual needs.
DENTAL INSURANCE:
The County provides a comprehensive dental benefit program for regular full-time and part-time employees and their eligible dependents. This plan pays on a set fee schedule that varies by procedure. Any amount over the fee schedule is the employee's responsibility. The yearly maximum is $2,000 per person, not including orthodontia. The orthodontic benefit is 50% of covered charges with a lifetime maximum of $1,000 per person.
LIFE INSURANCE:
The County of Sacramento provides a basic life insurance benefit of $15,000 to all eligible employees at no cost. Additional coverage may be purchased through payroll deduction.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION:
The County offers a Deferred Compensation Program which enables employees to save in a systematic way without paying income tax on either the payroll deduction or the earned interest, prior to withdrawal.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM:
The County of Sacramento provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their eligible dependents. The EAP offers confidential, professional counseling services in areas such as:
Legal Advice/Difficult Decisions
Marriage or Family Relationships
Financial or Credit Worries/Elder Care
Alcohol and Drug Abuse
WELLNESS INCENTIVE PROGRAM:
The County will recognize and award time off to eligible employees who maintain an excellent attendance record.
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT:
The County offers regular employees two separate Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA's). These accounts allow employees to set money aside, on a pre-tax basis via payroll deduction, to pay for medical, dental or dependent care expenses.
DEPENDENT CARE REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT:
Employees may set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified childcare or dependent care expenses that are necessary for the employee and/or spouse to continue working.
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT ACCOUNT:
The Medical Reimbursement Account allows pre-tax dollars to be set aside to pay for out-of-pocket expenses that are not paid by insurance or reimbursed by any other benefit plan.
WORKERS' COMPENSATION:
In case of injury while on the job, each employee is protected under the Workers' Compensation laws of California.
SACRAMENTO CREDIT UNION:
The credit union offers loan facilities and systematic saving plans through payroll deduction.
SELECTION AND PLACEMENT
Sacramento County encourages applications from all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, gender, disability, political affiliation, or age.
Certain age limits may be required by law, ordinance, or Civil Service direction for specific classifications such as those identified with hazardous occupations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Please read carefully the "Minimum Qualifications" section of your announcement. You must meet those qualifications by the application deadline date unless otherwise specified. Your application must clearly show you meet the minimum qualifications by the application deadline date, or it will not be accepted. All statements are subject to verification.
"Experience" means full-time paid experience unless the announcement states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part-time paid experience may be accumulated and pro-rated to meet the total experience requirements.
PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATIONS:
If the announcement indicates the examination is given on a promotional basis, candidates must hold permanent status in Sacramento County Civil Service by the application deadline date and must meet the minimum qualifications.
OPEN EXAMINATIONS:
Any person who meets the minimum qualifications may apply.
CONTINUOUS FILING EXAMINATIONS:
Applicants are eligible to reapply to and retake a continuous filing exam after 6 months from the date the previous exam results was received.
ELIGIBLE LISTS:
Names of qualified persons who made a passing score on an examination are entered, in order of their final grades, on an eligible list. To fill each vacancy, the hiring department will make a selection from among the top three ranks on the employment lists.
EXAMINATION RATINGS:
Unless otherwise stated on the announcement: To be successful, candidates must obtain a rating of at least 70% on each part of the examination. This may be an adjusted score or an arithmetic 70% of the total possible score as determined by the Director.
APPEAL PROCESS:
Persons who believe their applications have been improperly rejected may request the Employment Services Division to review its decision to reject the application. If the applicant desires to submit additional proof of qualifications, such proof must be received by Personnel Services not less than two (2) calendar days prior to the scheduled date for the examination.
Persons who are disqualified in any phase of the examination may appeal such adverse action, in writing, to the Civil Service Commission, 700 H Street, Room 2640, Sacramento, CA 95814, telephone: (916) 874-5586. Such appeals must be filed within thirty (30) calendar days after notice of the adverse action was mailed to the candidate.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs): https://personnel.saccounty.net/Pages/EmploymentServicesFAQs.aspx
OTHER INFORMATION
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE:
Military veterans who have served during wartime shall be given preference in initial appointment to County service. Such preference shall apply, provided the veteran has first achieved a minimum passing score in the examination. The passing score of a veteran shall be annotated to indicate the veteran's score shall be regarded as 5 points or higher, OR 10 points higher for disabled veterans, only for the purpose of determining the three ranks along with which the veteran's name shall be certified. No score shall actually be changed and no new rank shall be created as a result of application of veteran's preference for certification purposes.
"Disabled Veteran" means any veteran who has served during wartime and, who, as of the final filing date for an examination is declared by the United States Veterans Administration or military service department to be 10% or more disabled as a result of his/her military service. Persons claiming eligibility for disabled veteran's preference must submit to the employment office, on or before the application deadline date, a certification from the United States Veterans Administration or a military service department, dated within 1 year, which certifies the present existence of a service related disability of 10% or more, or other acceptable proof of such disability as a result of his/her military service.
Persons claiming eligibility for veterans preference must submit a copy of Form DD 214 or other acceptable proof of veteran's status on or before the final filing date for the examination. For purpose of this rule "reserve" status does not constitute active duty.
CITIZENSHIP OR AUTHORIZED ALIEN REQUIREMENT:
As required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all County employees must be United States citizens or aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Proof of citizenship or authorized status will be required prior to appointment.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE:
Some County Civil Service positions are covered by financial disclosure requirements intended to identify potential conflicts of interest.
CONCURRENT EMPLOYMENT:
No employee may concurrently occupy more than one County position.
SPECIAL SKILL QUALIFICATIONS (WHEN SPECIFIED ON THE APPLICATION):
Persons who have special skills required by some (but not all) positions in a class may be certified ahead of others provided that:
Such special skills are based on the duties and requirements of the positions and are in conformance with merit system and equal opportunity principles, and
The certification of eligibles who possess special skills have been approved by the Civil Service Commission.
PRE-EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL EXAMINATION & DRUG TESTING:
The County of Sacramento is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol free workplace. All persons selected for appointment to positions must pass a medical examination and a drug test, administered by the County at no cost to the applicant.
DRIVER LICENSE:
Possession of a valid California Driver License may be required for some positions.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD:
Regular positions are subject to a probationary period which is an extension of the selection process. Unless otherwise indicated on the announcement, the probationary period is six (6) months.
AGENCY SHOP/FAIR SHARE FEE:
Some positions require, as a condition of continued employment, that the person either:
Become a union member;
Pay a fair share fee to the union; or,
Meet specific requirements under which an equivalent amount must be paid to a charity.
FINGERPRINTING AND CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS:
Fingerprinting and criminal record checks are required for some positions.
01
The following Supplemental Questionnaire is the Civil Service Exam for this position and will be used to determine your exam score.
Note: The Supplemental Questionnaire and the Application are administered as two separate documents. The Application is used only to determine if the minimum qualifications are met; and the Supplemental Questionnaire will be used only to determine your exam score.
In order to receive every consideration in the selection process, you must complete all questions with concise but detailed answers and provide all requested information. Each answer will be scored separately. References such as 'See Resume' as a response will not be scored.
By continuing in the exam process, you are certifying that all information provided in the Supplemental Questionnaire is true to the best of your knowledge.
I have read and understood the above instructions.
02
Minimum qualifications for the Criminalist I – IV class are as follows: graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, pharmacology, biology, microbiology, criminalistics (with emphasis in chemistry), or a closely related scientific field.
Coursework must include successful completion of eight (8) semester units of general chemistry and three (3) semester units of quantitative analysis (or quarter unit equivalent).
Select the one box that best describes how you meet the minimum requirements for the position.
I possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the above listed fields or in a closely related scientific field.
I do not meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
03
Select the one box that best describes how you meet the minimum requirements specific to your completion of general chemistry coursework.
I have completed eight (8) semester/12 quarter units or more of general chemistry.
I do not meet this education requirement for the position.
04
List the GENERAL CHEMISTRY courses you have completed at an accredited college or university. For each course listed, provide the following:
Course Title
Course Code
College or University
Dates attended/completed
How the course meets the general chemistry requirement
If you have not completed any general chemistry courses at an accredited college or university, please write "None".
05
Select the one box that best describes how you meet the minimum requirements specific to your completion of quantitative analysis coursework.
Note: Quantitative analysis units must be associated with chemistry or a closely related scientific field.
I have completed three (3) semester/four and a half (4.5) quarter units or more of quantitative analysis; the quantitative analysis courses I have completed are directly associated with chemistry or a closely related scientific field.
I do not meet this education requirement for the position.
06
List the QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS courses you have completed at an accredited college or university. Qualifying Quantitative Analysis units must have an emphasis in chemistry or a closely related scientific field. For each course listed, provide the following:
Course Title
Course Code
College or University
Dates attended/completed
How the course meets the general chemistry requirement
If you have not completed any quantitative analysis courses at an accredited college or university, please write "None".
07
To demonstrate that you meet the minimum requirements for this position, you must submit your transcripts with your application. Select the below box to confirm that you understand this requirement.
I understand and I have submitted a copy of my transcripts to verify that I meet the minimum education requirements.
08
Describe in detail the education that you have completed at a college or university that is relevant to the Criminalist position with the County of Sacramento. For all education completed, provide the degree(s), and the college or university for which you completed the education. If you have not completed any education that is relevant to the position, please write "None".
09
The Criminalist class has four (4) position levels, which are assigned at the discretion of the appointing authority and are subject to the following experience requirements:
Level I: This level is assigned to Criminalists with little or no previous forensic science casework experience. Under direct supervision, incumbents learn and apply the required body of knowledge and perform fundamental, routine forensic science casework activities in one of the core disciplines of comparative evidence, trace evidence, arson, conventional serology, DNA, toxicology, forensic alcohol, or controlled substances. This is the training and developmental level.
Level II: This level is assigned to Criminalists with at least one year of experience in one of the core disciplines in a forensic science laboratory. Under supervision, incumbents perform complex technical forensic casework activities in the laboratory and/or at crime scenes. This is the intermediate journey performance level.
Level III: This level is assigned to Criminalists with at least five years of experience at the Level II or equivalent in one or more of the core disciplines, or associated sub-disciplines of firearms /toolmarks, IBIS, impression evidence, paint, glass, hairs, fibers, gunshot residue, or clandestine laboratory investigations in a forensic science laboratory. Under direction, incumbents perform difficult, sensitive, and/or highly technical forensic science casework and/or crime scene investigations and assist in training laboratory staff. This is the full journey level.
Level IV: This level is assigned to Criminalists with at least five years of experience at the Level III or equivalent in one or more of the core or associated sub-disciplines in a forensic science laboratory. Under general direction, incumbents perform the most difficult, sensitive, and/or highly technical forensic science casework. Incumbents also have responsibility for research and method development and/or lead oversight and training of laboratory staff on a regular and recurring basis. This is the advanced-journey level.
Select the one box that best describes your highest level of Criminalist experience
None.
Level I
Level II
Level III
Level IV
10
Select all the boxes for which you have been qualified to conduct casework in a forensic laboratory.
Alcohol.
Biology.
Bloodstain interpretation.
Controlled substances.
Crime Scenes.
Distance determination.
Explosives.
Fibers.
Fingerprints.
Fire debris.
Firearms.
Glass.
Gunshot residue.
Hair.
Impression evidence.
Paint.
Tapes.
Toolmarks.
Toxicology.
Trace.
None of the above.
11
Select the one box that best describes the disciplines for which you have been qualified to conduct forensic laboratory casework: alcohol, biology, bloodstain interpretation, controlled substances, crime scenes, distance determination, explosives, fibers, fingerprints, fire debris, firearms, glass, gunshot residue, hair, impression evidence, paint, tapes, toolmarks, toxicology, trace, and general, chemical, and physical examinations.
None.
I have been qualified to conduct casework in a forensic laboratory on three (3) or more of the listed disciplines.
I have been qualified to conduct casework in a forensic laboratory on (2) of the listed disciplines.
I have been qualified to conduct casework in a forensic laboratory on one (1) of the listed disciplines.
12
For each of the disciplines you have been qualified to conduct forensic laboratory casework, provide the date range for which you were responsible for conducting the casework. In your response, provide your employer(s), your position title(s), and your role and responsibilities within the forensic laboratory for each discipline. If you have no relevant experience, please write "None".
13
Select the one box that best describes your forensic laboratory experience (including internships and volunteer assignments).
None.
I have experience working in a forensic laboratory.
My forensic laboratory experience includes at least one of the following: receiving evidence from law enforcement agencies, collecting and packaging evidence, or entering and/or tracking evidence within a case management system/database.
My forensic laboratory experience includes all of the following: receiving evidence from law enforcement agencies, collecting and packaging evidence, and entering and/or tracking evidence within a case management system/database.
14
Describe in detail your experience working with evidence within a forensic laboratory. Provide your employer(s), your position title(s), and your role and responsibilities with evidence handling within the forensic laboratory. List the case management system(s) you have experience using, your experience using each system, and your proficiency. If you have no relevant experience, please write "None".
15
Select all the boxes for which you are currently a member.
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).
American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT).
American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI).
American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD).
American Society of Trace Evidence Examiners (ASTEE).
Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE).
California Association of Crime Lab Directors (CACLD).
California Association of Criminalists (CAC).
International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts (IABPA).
International Association for Forensic Scientists.
International Association for Identification (IAI).
Mid-Atlantic Association of Forensic Scientists.
Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (MAFS).
Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists (NEAFS).
Northwest Association of Forensic Scientists (NWAFS).
Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT).
Southwest Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS).
Other professional Forensic Association(s).
None of the above.
16
Select all the boxes that list associations/boards for which you have obtained one or more professional certifications.
American Board of Criminalistics (ABC).
American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT).
American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI).
Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE).
International Association for Forensic Scientists.
International Association for Identification (IAI).
Other professional Forensic Association(s).
None of the above.
17
Select the one box that best describes the professional certifications you have already obtained from the following associations/boards: American Board of Criminalistics (ABC), American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT), American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI), Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE), International Association for Forensic Scientists, and the International Association for Identification (IAI).
None.
I have two (2) or more current professional certifications issued by one or more of the listed associations/boards.
I have one (1) professional certification issued by one of the listed associations/boards.
I am currently enrolled in one or more certification programs with one or more of the listed associations/boards.
18
As related to the Criminalist position, list all of the associations and boards for which you are a member as well as all of the professional certifications that you possess. For each association and board, provide your membership status (e.g. member, board member, president, etc.). For each certification, provide the certificate number(s), date of original issue, and date of expiration, if applicable. If you are not an active member of any Criminalist related associations or boards nor possess any related professional certifications, please write "None".
19
Select all the boxes for which you have completed specialized forensic training courses and/or seminars.
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF).
American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS).
Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE).
California Criminalistics Institute (CCI).
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts (IABPA).
International Association for Identification (IAI).
Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT).
Other Educational Institution(s) with recognized Forensic Science Program(s).
None of the above
20
Select the one box that best describes the specialized forensic training courses and seminars you have attended/completed with the following associations and institutions: Alcohol Tobacco Firearms (ATF), American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS), Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE), California Criminalistics Institute (CCI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), International Association of Bloodstain Pattern Analysts (IABPA), International Association for Identification (IAI), Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT), and other educational institutions with recognized Forensic Science Programs--not to include college coursework.
None.
I have completed three (3) or more forensic training courses, which resulted in obtaining a certificate of completion, as well as attended one (1) or more seminars hosted by the listed associations/institutions.
I have completed one or two (1 or 2) forensic training courses, which resulted in obtaining a certificate of completion, as well as attended one (1) or more seminar hosted by the listed associations/institutions.
I have completed three (3) or more forensic training courses, which resulted in obtaining a certificate of completion, with the listed associations/institutions.
I have completed one or two (1 or 2) forensic training courses, which resulted in obtaining a certificate of completion, with the listed associations/institutions.
I have attended one (1) or more seminars hosted by the listed associations and/or institutions.
21
List the specialized forensic training courses and seminars you have completed and attended. For each course and seminar, provide the following: title, forensic training provided or seminar topic, association/institution, and the date(s). If you have not completed any specialized forensic training courses nor attended any specialized forensic seminars, please write "None".
22
Select all the boxes for which you have experience delivering presentations.
Delivering forensic related presentation(s) to an audience of forensic professionals (e.g. professional associations).
Delivering forensic related presentations to students and/or class.
Delivering forensic related presentations to in-house staff/peers/co-workers.
Delivering non-forensic presentations to in-house staff/peers/co-workers, students and/or class.
None of the above.
23
Select all the boxes for which you have experience (including internships and volunteer assignments).
Conducting research and/or method validation.
Authoring forensic related publications.
Co-authoring forensic related publications.
None of the above.
24
Select all the boxes for which you have paid experience testifying in court regarding the results on forensic analysis specific to the listed forensic discipline.
Alcohol.
Biology.
Bloodstain interpretation.
Controlled substances.
Crime Scenes.
Distance determination.
Explosives.
Fibers.
Fingerprints.
Fire debris.
Firearms.
Glass.
Gunshot residue.
Hair.
Impression evidence.
Paint.
Tapes.
Toolmarks.
Toxicology.
None of the above.
25
Select the one box that best describes your paid experience testifying in court regarding the results of forensic analysis for the following disciplines: alcohol, biology, bloodstain interpretation, controlled substances, crime scenes, distance determination, explosives, fibers, fingerprints, fire debris, firearms, glass, gunshot residue, hair, impression evidence, paint, tapes, toolmarks, toxicology, trace, and general, chemical, and physical examinations.
None.
I have testified in court regarding the results of forensic analysis in three (3) or more of the listed disciplines.
I have testified in court regarding the results of forensic analysis in two (2) of the listed disciplines.
I have testified in court regarding the results of forensic analysis in one (1) of the listed disciplines.
26
Describe in detail your experience with the following:
Delivering professional and academic presentations and testimonies
Forensic related publications for which you authored
Testifying in court regarding the results of forensic analysis
If you have no relevant experience, please write "None".
27
Select all of the boxes for which you have paid or unpaid experience working with the listed analytical instrumentation.
Breath alcohol instrument.
Comparison microscope.
DNA thermocycler.
Gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS).
Inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry (ICP/MS).
Infrared spectrophotometer (IR or FTIR).
Liquid chromatograph/mass spectrometer (LC/MS).
Liquid chromatograph/Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer.
Photographic equipment.
Polarized light microscope.
Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).
Other analytical instrumentation.
None