Forensic Scientist Supervisor

This position will supervise the Biology Unit.

A Forensic Scientist Supervisor is responsible for the day-to-day administrative and technical operations of units within the Forensic Services Division (Biology-Serology and DNA, Controlled Substances, Firearms/Tool Marks, Toxicology-Blood Alcohol and Drug Screening/Confirmation, Quality Assurance Unit), or is responsible for a major program within the Forensic Services Division (example: Quality Assurance Manager, Laboratory Information Management Systems [LIMS], etc.); and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of one or more units within the Forensic Services Division. Work may also involve overseeing the Latent Print, Crime Scene, Fingerprint Identification, and/or Support Units within the Forensic Services Division. These units conduct highly specialized forensic evaluations utilizing chemical, microscopic, or chromatographic techniques and instrumentation to examine, identify, and evaluate physical evidence which may include: hair, fibers, fabrics, firearms, bullets, cartridge cases, latent prints, substances suspected of containing drugs, fire debris, paint, glass, soil, blood, urine, and other biological substances.

Specific supervisory duties include: ensuring ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board) standards are instituted and maintained; developing, approving, and maintaining unit specific training programs; conducting, monitoring, and documenting training progress of all unit personnel; documenting authorization for unit personnel to conduct specific analyses/functions upon completion of competency testing; generating, reviewing/updating, and approving unit standard operating procedures; ensuring compliance by personnel under their supervision; training laboratory personnel; developing training programs for sworn Police Department personnel; directing caseload and turnaround time; developing and implementing new laboratory techniques, methods, and equipment; developing and maintaining a quality assurance program for assigned unit(s); ensuring laboratory safety; overseeing national databases (including AFIS, CODIS, and NIBIN); preparing and maintaining laboratory records and reference files; performing technical and administrative review of case reports; and preparing and monitoring the unit's portion of the Forensic Services Division budget. A Forensic Scientist Supervisor is also responsible for providing expert testimony in court as well as accompanying other Forensic Services Division personnel to court in order to review and formally critique their expert witness testimony presentations.

A Forensic Scientist Supervisor is also responsible for research and development activities within their unit; and the final review and approval of new equipment, techniques, and procedures instituted within their respective units. A Forensic Scientist Supervisor also researches federal, state, and local grant opportunities available for their units; and assist in the preparation of grant proposals and prepares quarterly grant status reports. A Forensic Scientist Supervisor is responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable safety rules and regulations. This class performs related duties as required.

This class requires the combined application of previously attained professional knowledge with competence in general supervision. Good communication skills are essential as incumbents consult and coordinate with forensic personnel from other agencies, police officers, attorneys, accreditation assessors, staff members at accreditation organizations, and independent experts regarding the results of laboratory analyses. Additional responsibilities include: monitoring special projects, conducting staff meetings, reviewing bid specifications, coordinating evidence processing, and preparing grant applications and subsequent documentation. Supervision is received from the Forensic Services Administrator who reviews work through meetings, reports, and results achieved. This position involves working with chemicals and other hazardous materials. This class is FLSA exempt-professional.

Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.

Employee Values: All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.

Minimum Qualifications Required. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's or advanced degree in Biology/Biochemistry, Chemistry, Forensic Science (Criminalistics), or closely related field in a natural science. At least eight years of progressively responsible experience as a Criminalist/Forensic Scientist in a laboratory actively engaged in the forensic sciences and/or quality assurance manager.

Special Requirements. Because of the confidential, sensitive nature of information handled, successful completion of a background investigation is required. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date.

Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures.

Preferred/Desirable Qualifications. Some (6 months to 1 year) supervisory experience in a crime laboratory is highly desirable. Experience in an internationally accredited laboratory is preferred.