Responsibilities

3H72 PAY RANGE: EP21***

FORENSIC SCIENTIST 3 GENERAL DEFINITION
This is forensic science work at the advanced performance level in the preservation, examination, handling, and comparative analysis of items of evidence collected in criminal investigations. Positions in this class are allocated to one of five assignments: Biology, Chemistry, Genealogy, Crime Scene, Digital Evidence, or Pattern Evidence. Positions allocated to the Pattern Evidence assignment are assigned to one of the following disciplines: Documents, Firearms/Toolmarks, or Latent Prints. An important aspect of the work is serving on interdisciplinary committees within the Office of Forensic Science of the Philadelphia Police Department. Work in this class differs from the next lower level in that the employee is expected to provide basic instruction to junior examiners and trainees and assist in the development of training materials while maintaining an active forensic caseload. As experience is gained, employees oversee small projects within the area of specialty. Work in each assignment includes examining evidence associated with crimes for presentation of laboratory findings in written reports and through expert testimony in criminal trials. An employee in this class is expected to work independently in the performance of these tasks. All work is performed in accordance with national and international quality assurance standards in the accredited Office of Forensic Science of the Philadelphia Police Department. Work is performed under the supervision of a higher level forensic scientist or technical superior.

ALLOCATING FACTORS: (The following conditions must be met for a position to be allocated to this class.)

Employees in this class must perform biology, chemistry, crime scene, digital evidence, genealogy or pattern evidence work at the advanced performance level with responsibility for providing basic instruction to junior examiners and trainees and assisting in the development of training materials.
Positions must be located in the Office of Forensic Science of the Philadelphia Police Department.

TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF WORK (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)

ALL ASSIGNMENTS

Performs the duties of a qualified examiner in the assigned assignment at the advanced performance level.
Serves on interdisciplinary committees within the OFS.
Collaborates with other experts in the OFS to ensure that all integrated examinations across disciplines are performed when required.
May provide some interpretation of significance of findings during expert testimony on examinations in criminal trials.
Provides basic instruction to junior examiners and trainees and assists in the development of training materials, while maintaining an active forensic caseload.
As experience is gained, oversees small projects, research, or validation plans within the area of assignment.
Follows evidence control procedures to maintain chain-of-evidence integrity; insures evidence is locked securely in designated locker or space before and after analysis.
Operates computer consoles to analyze results of tests or to perform mathematical calculations involved in the analyses of evidence.
Maintains data records; prepares reports.
Communicates findings and conclusions with investigators and attorneys.
Maintains compliance with all quality assurances standards for forensic accreditation.
Checks instrumentation for validity and reliability against standards and recalibrates.
Participates in research projects by performing routine tests.
Provides training as needed and under the direction of a senior forensic scientist to forensic trainees, police staff, students, interns, or other members of the criminal justice community.
Provides presentations in the field of specialty.
Serves on interdisciplinary committees within the OFS
Performs related work a required.

BIOLOGY ASSIGNMENT

Forensic DNA Analysis

Examines physical evidence for trace materials to be tested with presumptive and confirmatory procedures, including but not limited to, those for the presence of blood, semen, saliva, hair, and other biological material.
Extracts DNA from various biological samples (i.e. blood, semen, saliva, etc.) using DNA extraction techniques, such as, Chelex and organic methods; amplifies extracted DNA for particular genetic markers using PCR technology; prepares samples for DNA analysis and/or outsourced specialty analyses.
Establishes genetic profiles for biological samples collected from crime scenes and reference samples collected from suspects/victims through the use of standard molecular biology techniques, equipment and software, such as capillary electrophoresis analyzers and genetic analysis software; compares genetic profiles established from scene samples to genetic profiles established from reference samples.
Performs basic statistical calculations to determine frequencies of matching profiles and advanced statistical calculations to evaluate biological relationships associated with kinship. Performs related work as required.

Forensic DNA Sequencing

In addition to the above duties, positions in DNA sequencing perform the following duties:

Develops genetic family trees to assist forensic genealogists and investigators evaluate potential biological relationships.
Utilizes public and private sequence databases, under authorized use agreements and regulations, to search for sequence data related to unidentified human remains or violent crime.
Performs related work as required.

CHEMISTRY ASSIGNMENT

Collects and analyzes samples of liquid, solid, and gaseous materials, substances and compounds for qualitative and/or quantitative results; logs in samples in compliance with departmental and national forensic accreditation procedures.
Analyzes macroscopic and microscopic suspected substances for presence of illegal elements, by use traditional and instrumental chemistry techniques; identifies controlled substances, precursors, by products, and substances used for drug dilution; examines and identifies suspected drug paraphernalia; analyzes foodstuffs for the presence of drugs and poisons, and identifies possible poisons; analyzes urine for drug content and quantifies concentrations;
Analyzes samples with wet chemistry methods or standard laboratory equipment and/or advanced instrumentation, such as, atomic absorption/emission spectrophotometers, gas/liquid chromatographs, UV-visible, infra-red spectrophotometers, mass spectrometers, scanning electron microscopes, compound microscopes and/or any related equipment.
Communicates findings with investigative teams; prepares reports and presentations; may provide expert testimony.
Performs related work as required.

CRIME SCENE ASSIGNMENT

Documents evidence at crime scene by photographing, labeling, sketching, preserving latent prints and preparing detailed written reports; measures and drafts preliminary sketches of crime scene, photographs crime scene using digital, large format, video, and 3D laser imaging; photographs specific items of evidence; develops and enlarges photographs taken at crime scene, utilizes software to enhance images to be used in court proceedings; may take aerial photographs and videos of crime scenes.
Processes crime scenes or evidence items with alternate lights, powders, or chemical or physical techniques to detect latent prints; lifts and preserves exposed latent fingerprints; photographs exposed latent prints; may collect reference fingerprints of suspects or others for comparison purposes.
Searches interiors, grounds and rooftops; collects and preserves physical evidence; detects and collects blood, semen, DNA and gunpowder samples; utilizes metal detectors, portable magnets and forensic (alternate) light sources; makes tire, tool, footprint and other impressions with plaster, dental stone or silicone rubber; vacuums and brushes surfaces for residue evidence; takes fingernail scrapings and hair samples and tests hands of victims or suspects for gunpowder residue; collects fingerprints, nail scrapings, and other evidence from cadavers at the morgue.
Preserves, packages and labels all evidence collected; prepares property receipts and detailed reports of investigations and evidence gathered; uses specialized computer software packages for processing evidence; prepares scale drawing utilizing specialized software of crime scene from rough sketch and measurements; cooperates with city, state and federal authorities in the investigation of crime scenes; drives police vehicle to and from crime scene; communicates status via police radio.
Provides factual and expert testimony in court; references documentation to present accurate depiction of crime scene, creates evidence exhibits for use in discovery and court presentation utilizing specialized software and various modeling materials to transform photographs and other evidence into presentations; discusses findings and conclusions with District Attorney, investigators, and other members of the criminal justice system as appropriate and authorized.
Maintains compliance with all quality assurances standards for forensic accreditation.
Provides presentations in the field of specialty to the department, criminal justice community, and general public as needed and authorized.
Performs related work as required.

DIGITAL EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENT

Maintains forensic evidence files in appropriate manner on departmental information systems; edits and redacts audio and video for release to media outlets or “Right to Know” requests; validates the originality and authenticity of digital evidence utilizing advanced techniques; determines the type, format, characteristics and proper playback method of digital files; extracts and examines metadata associated with files; captures or converts data from proprietary formats to universal file formats in a forensically sound manner; utilizes advanced techniques to correct color balance, adjust tonal values, aspect ratios, remove image noise or otherwise correct audible or visible distortions in digital media.
Forensically examines, clarifies or otherwise enhances digital media such as video images, still images, audio tracks and other related digital evidence; uses techniques and software to develop potential suspects from still or video images; prepares digital evidence for court exhibition in a manner that gives value to the evidence while maintaining its integrity; prepares official reports regarding the examination of digital evidence for the use of investigators and prosecutors; prepares job aids and bulletins for use by departmental staff in the handling and preservation of digital evidence.
Provides instruction and training regarding digital evidence; provides instruction and training to junior forensic examiners.
Performs related work as required.

GENEALOGY ASSIGNMENT

Perform advanced forensic DNA analysis using established scientific methods not limited to including the preparation, processing, and sequencing of DNA samples; evaluate and interpret complex DNA results from evidentiary samples using specialized software, databases, and forensic tools to develop accurate and reliable genetic profiles.
Conduct advanced comparisons and statistical analyses of DNA data to identify potential matches and biological relationships; develop detailed family trees to support investigative leads in complex forensic cases.
Maintains detailed documentation of methods, sources, and analytical decisions to ensure transparency and compliance with legal and policy requirements.
Participates in case reviews, training, and may provide court testimony when required.
Performs related work as required.

PATTERN EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENT

Positions in the Document Analysis

Examines, classifies and/or compares documents, papers, checks, stickers, stamps, impressions, handwriting and other related evidence; utilizes advanced techniques to restore or visualize identifying marks and obliterated or altered evidence. Performs related work as required.

Positions in Firearms/Toolmarks

Examines, classifies and/or compares firearms, ammunition, tools, toolmarks, and other ballistics evidence; checks files to ascertain if recovered weapons have a previous record of being stolen or wanted as evidence.
Utilizes advanced techniques to restore identifying marks or serial numbers, which may have been obliterated; performs comparative analysis on various comparison microscopes and documents findings through photomicrography and written notes.
Test fires weapons and performs safety checks.
Performs related work as required.

Positions in Latent Print

Examines and classifies incoming fingerprint impression evidence; enters work received into a computerized tracking program.
Evaluates and enters suitable latent prints into an Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) for searching; uses AFIS results to pull files for manual comparison
Makes decisions of individualization based on ACE-V scientific methodology.
Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES KNOWLEDGE OF:

ALL ASSIGNMENTS

basic laboratory techniques and the techniques and equipment used in a forensic laboratory related to the assignment
specific laboratory, and analytical, and interpretational protocols related to the procedures utilized in the PPD/OFS in the area of assignment
forensic quality assurance practices
city, state, national, international and departmental standards, laws, directives, and guidelines that apply to assignment area
policies and procedures related to chain of custody
policies and procedures related to expert testimony
safety practices and procedures as they apply to a forensic laboratory related to the specialty
research methods and techniques
basic computer operations
principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. ∙ other forensic disciplines

BIOLOGY ASSIGNMENT

the principles of biology, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, forensic science, and statistics
basic biology and molecular biology techniques and equipment used in a forensic biology laboratory
National Standards for Forensic DNA Analysis
genetics software and databases in creation of DNA profiles in the area of assignment
perform statistical and genetic analyses to compare DNA samples

CHEMISTRY ASSIGNMENT

the principles, methods, and practices of chemistry, in particular analytical chemistry
mathematics and statistics as they relate to chemistry
techniques and equipment used in a forensic chemistry laboratory

CRIME SCENE ASSIGNMENT

the principles of science, and technology, that apply to crime scene investigations
basic familiarity of photography principles and techniques
basic principles of the preservation of biological, digital, and physical evidence
general rules, procedures and laws of evidence

DIGITAL EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENT

methods and practices for editing and adjusting digital still/video images and audio tracks
principles, methods and practices of forensic still/video image and audio analysis
tools and equipment used for the extraction, manipulation and examination of digital evidence
standards, guidelines and best practices for the handling of digital evidence
mathematics and statistics as they relate to digital multimedia evidence

GENEALOGY ASSIGNMENT

the principles, methods and practices of forensic genetic genealogy
genealogical research methods and research records techniques
standards and guidelines for processing DNA evidence
general rules, procedures and laws of evidence related to forensic genealogy work
evidence documentation, records management, and investigative reporting

PATTERN EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENT

the principles of comparative analyses used in a forensic science laboratory for pattern evidence, specific to the area of assignment
mathematics and statistics as they relate to forensic pattern evidence
reference standards in relation to the area of assignment

SKILL IN:

ALL ASSIGNMENTS

identifying characteristics inherent in forensic samples
independently performing forensic analysis, according to established protocols as a qualified examiner in the area of specialty/assignment
maximizing efficiencies and working progressively more complicated forensic cases
utilizing current laboratory equipment and techniques in the assigned discipline
maintaining forensic quality assurance standards
safe and proper handling of laboratory equipment, reagents, and evidence to include items of a potentially hazardous nature
communicating in both written and verbal form
evaluating statistical data
providing basic instruction to junior examiners and trainees
providing guidance and training to customers, partners and the public in the area of specialty
representing the PPD/OFS at both technical and non-technical events

DIGITAL EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENT

applying advanced principles and practices of forensic still/video image and audio analysis

ABILITY TO:

ALL ASSIGNMENTS

independently analyze forensic evidence in the area of specialization/assignment at the qualified examiner level
perform technical reviews of analysis and reports
prioritize work and meet deadlines
enter and evaluate statistical data
continually develop and advance expertise in the principles, practices, materials and equipment used in the assigned discipline
use and maintain sophisticated equipment in the assignment area
perform the tests, examinations and protocols required in the area of assignment
express ideas and facts clearly and effectively both orally and in writing
distinguish colors and visually analyze analytical results, which may include color changes, pattern recognition, graphs, charts, tables, and other forms of electronic data
perform standard tests and make accurate analyses, using quality control techniques
establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and public understand and follow oral and written instructions
maintain accurate records and prepare reports
testify effectively in court
operate a computer console to analyze results of tests or to perform calculations involved in the analysis of evidence
serve on inter-disciplinary working groups and/or committees within the OFS
represent the PPD/OFS to both technical and non-technical audiences in a professional manner
critically evaluate current protocols and policies, and offer constructive solutions for improvement and advancement of the OFS mission
serve as a mentor and trainer to junior OFS staff

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

The following statement represents the minimum training and experience standards which will be used to admit or reject applicants for tests. Applications submitted by candidates for this class will be reviewed based on training and experience requirements as approved Anticipated 7/26.)

EDUCATION:

Completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university with major coursework in:

ASSIGNMENT: DEGREES

BIOLOGY: Any of the following degrees, which include at least 3 credits in EACH of the following courses: molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry:

CHEMISTRY
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE AND

Candidates must also have, prior to appointment, successfully completed 3 coursework credits or have documented training/experience in population genetics or statistics, in accordance with FBI Quality Assurance Standards.

CHEMISTRY:

CHEMISTRY OR Any of the following degrees with 24 semester hours in chemistry or biochemistry:

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
PHYSICAL OR NATURAL SCIENCE
RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

CRIME SCENE:

PHYSICAL, NATURAL, OR RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
ENGINEERING
COMPUTER SCIENCE/INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OR
CRIMINAL JUSTICE OR INVESTIGATIONS/INTELLIGENCE with at least nine (9) credit hours of physical or natural science coursework AND three (3) credit hours in Statistics or Quantitative Research Methods.

DIGITAL EVIDENCE:

COMPUTER FORENSICS
COMPUTER SCIENCE/INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
DIGITAL FILMMAKING AND VIDEO PRODUCTION
VISUAL EFFECTS AND MOTION GRAPHICS
MEDIA STUDIES
PHOTGRAPHY

GENEALOGY:

HISTORY
ANTHROPOLOGY
LIBRARY SCIENCE
INFORMATION SCIENCE
RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE AND Certification or coursework in Genetic or Forensic Genealogy from a recognized professional institution.

PATTERN EVIDENCE:

CHEMISTRY
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
PHYSICAL OR NATURAL SCIENCE
APPLIED SCIENCE 6. ENGINEERING

NOTE: CRIME SCENE AND PATTERN EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENTS ONLY:

Additional qualified experience as a Forensic Scientist or equivalent Forensic Examiner experience at the Office of Forensic Science or another accredited agency substitutes for the bachelor’s degree on a year for year basis.

AND EXPERIENCE:

ALL ASSIGNMENTS

Three years of forensic science work, at least one year of which shall have been at the qualified examiner level, equivalent to a Forensic Scientist 2, in the preservation, examination, handling, and comparative analysis of items of evidence collected in criminal investigations in the assigned area or performing genetic sequencing within a laboratory or academic setting.

NOTE: Candidates must provide documentation to support their qualification as a qualified examiner. See below for details.

QUALIFIED EXAMINER DOCUMENTATION - Must be provided to the Police Department at the time of interview.

Proof of successful completion of a training program within an accredited forensic science organization, which resulted in qualification as an expert (forensic examiner) in the area of specialty and assignment. Qualification must have included independent forensic casework, routine proficiency testing, and testimony as an expert in the area of specialty/discipline. External candidates must provide documentation to support their qualification as an expert. Documentation should include:

A certificate or letter from an accredited forensic laboratory that details the area and date of qualification.
Proof of the laboratory’s accreditation from either ANAB or another ISO/IEC 17025 or 17020 forensic accrediting body.
Proof of successful completion of routine proficiency test may include copies of proficiency test results, a summary document from the laboratory’s quality assurance program, or other documentation that details scope and completion of proficiency testing.
Proof of testimony experience may include a copy of a court transcript from one or more trials, or a letter from a court official detailing the expert’s experience testifying in court as an expert in a specific discipline.

NOTE: Employees must maintain status as a qualified Forensic Examiner during tenure of employment as a Forensic Scientist 3.

NOTE: Selective Factor Certification may be utilized, as needed, to fill specific positions. In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 11.032 - Selective Factor Certification - the appointing authority may request certification of eligible candidates with one or more of the required degrees and/or specific experience to fill specific positions in this class. Certification to fill such positions will be made from the highest-ranking eligible candidates on the eligible list who possess the specified degree and/or experience.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class. Ability to visually distinguish test results, which may include color changes, pattern recognition, and interpretation of electronic data (tables, graphs and charts).

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR

CERTIFICATES Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as a Forensic Scientist 3 if required by work assignment.

Class Established:

Spec. Revisions: CSC: 4/13, Ad. Board: 5/13
Spec. Revisions: CSC - 9/14, Ad. Board - 11/14
Spec. Revisions: CSC – 5/16, Ad. Board – 6/16
Spec. Revisions: CSC - 10/17, Ad. Board - 11/17
Spec. Revisions: CSC – 2/23; Ad. Board – 3/23
Spec. Revisions: CSC – 11/25; Ad. Board – 12/25
Latest Spec. Revisions: CSC –6/26; Anticipated Ad. Board –7/26

Qualifications

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

EDUCATION:

Completion of a bachelor's degree program at an accredited college or university with major coursework in:

ASSIGNMENT: DEGREES

BIOLOGY: Any of the following degrees, which include at least 3 credits in EACH of the following courses: molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry:

CHEMISTRY
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE

AND Candidates must also have, prior to appointment, successfully completed 3 coursework credits or have documented training/experience in population genetics or statistics, in accordance with FBI Quality Assurance Standards.

CHEMISTRY:

1. CHEMISTRY OR

Any of the following degrees with 24 semester hours in chemistry or biochemistry:

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
PHYSICAL OR NATURAL SCIENCE
RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

CRIME SCENE:

PHYSICAL, NATURAL, OR RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
ENGINEERING
COMPUTER SCIENCE/INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OR
CRIMINAL JUSTICE OR INVESTIGATIONS/INTELLIGENCE with at least nine (9) credit hours of physical or natural science coursework AND three (3) credit hours in Statistics or Quantitative Research Methods.

DIGITAL EVIDENCE:

COMPUTER FORENSICS
COMPUTER SCIENCE/INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
DIGITAL FILMMAKING AND VIDEO PRODUCTION
VISUAL EFFECTS AND MOTION GRAPHICS
MEDIA STUDIES
PHOTGRAPHY

GENEALOGY:

HISTORY
ANTHROPOLOGY
LIBRARY SCIENCE
INFORMATION SCIENCE
RELATED SCIENCE DEGREE AND Certification or coursework in Genetic or Forensic Genealogy from a recognized professional institution.

PATTERN EVIDENCE:

CHEMISTRY
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE
FORENSIC SCIENCE
PHYSICAL OR NATURAL SCIENCE
APPLIED SCIENCE 6. ENGINEERING

NOTE: CRIME SCENE AND PATTERN EVIDENCE ASSIGNMENTS ONLY:

EXPERIENCE:

ALL ASSIGNMENTS

NOTE: Candidates must provide documentation to support their qualification as a qualified examiner. See below for details.

QUALIFIED EXAMINER DOCUMENTATION - Must be provided to the Police Department at the time of interview.

A certificate or letter from an accredited forensic laboratory that details the area and date of qualification.
Proof of the laboratory’s accreditation from either ANAB or another ISO/IEC 17025 or 17020 forensic accrediting body.
Proof of successful completion of routine proficiency test may include copies of proficiency test results, a summary document from the laboratory’s quality assurance program, or other documentation that details scope and completion of proficiency testing.
Proof of testimony experience may include a copy of a court transcript from one or more trials, or a letter from a court official detailing the expert’s experience testifying in court as an expert in a specific discipline.

NOTE: Employees must maintain status as a qualified Forensic Examiner during tenure of employment as a Forensic Scientist 3.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.
Ability to visually distinguish test results, which may include color changes, pattern recognition, and interpretation of electronic data (tables, graphs and charts).

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND/OR CERTIFICATES

Possession of a valid proper class motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania prior to appointment and during tenure of employment as a Forensic Scientist 3 if required by work assignment.

Compensation

$87,424 - $92,571 annually

City of Philadelphia Benefits includes:

Medical
Dental
Prescription
Vision
Life Insurance
Flexible Spending Account
Hybrid Defined Benefit/Defined Contribution Plan
Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan
Employee Assistant Program
13 paid holidays
Paid sick leave
Vacation leave
Paid personal days
8 weeks paid Parental Leave
Backup Child and Adult care
Wellbeing platform and programs
Retiree Health Benefits
Qualified Student Loan Forgiveness Employer
Tuition Discounts for City Employees

How to apply

Please apply at the URL provided. Documentation of your qualified forensic examiner certification is required with your application. For questions, contact us at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov or call 215-686-0885 or 215-686-2350.

Apply