Sr. Forensic Scientist (Firearms Examiner)

Forensic Analytical Crime Lab, Hayward, CA, US

Responsibilities

We are seeking a skilled forensic scientist with a proven track record conducting investigations and examinations of firearms. The ideal candidate will also have expertise in crime scene reconstruction and other aspects of criminalistics such as blood stain pattern and gunshot residue interpretation. There is a strong emphasis on interpersonal skills and report writing because of the type of expert services we provide. Critical thinking, leadership abilities, a collaborative approach, and expertise across multiple forensic disciplines are imperative. The ideal candidate will be committed to quality and exceeding industry standards. 

As a Sr. Forensic Scientist (Firearms Examiner) at Forensic Analytical Crime Lab you will join our 3-person team of Firearms/Toolmark/General Criminalist experts. All criminalists directly collaborate with administrative professional staff as well as technical staff. The Sr. Forensic Scientist also supports the development of laboratory procedures, participates in staff training, and updating SOPs. Additional responsibilities include expert court testimony, interdepartmental collaboration, and contributing to administrative functions such as client relations, discovery organization and case budgeting.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Criminalistics, Forensic Science, or Natural Science. 

Experience: Five (5) years of experience in a forensic laboratory setting and completion of a recognized training program (at least 2 years) performing microscopic comparisons of firearm and/or toolmark produced toolmarks. Experience with shooting incident reconstruction (to include bullet path, distance determination, ejection pattern) is also highly desirable. 

Desired Qualifications 
The ideal candidate will have: 

  • A minimum of 5 years of forensic science experience, to include completion of a forensic firearms examiner training program, competency tested, court qualified, and ongoing proficiency testing.
  • Licenses and accreditations such as AFTE, ABC, ABFT are highly desirable.
  • Experience in multiple disciplines such as Firearms, Toolmarks, Crime Scene Reconstruction, Blood Stain Pattern Analysis, Shooting Incident Reconstruction, GSR, etc.
  • Experience and knowledge in ISO/IEC Forensic Accreditation.
  • Outstanding interpersonal skills including the ability to exercise proper judgment and discretion.
  • The ability to establish procedures and methods to increase efficiency and reduce costs. 

Must be able to: 

  • Collaborate with forensic scientists and other professionals in other disciplines on multi-faceted criminal and civil cases.
  • Review and examine large volumes of discovery material and physical evidence.
  • Meet deadlines for reviewing discovery and evidence examination.
  • Consult with other professionals in the criminal justice system.
  • Write clear, coherent declarations and reports.
  • Provide expert testimony in civil and criminal courts; and
  • Travel within and outside California (and occasionally internationally) for case-related activities. 

Qualifications, training and experience in other forensic specialties (fingerprints, shoe and tire examinations, blood spatter, forensic photography, toxicology review, etc.) preferred.

Compensation

This position offers very competitive salary, full benefits and a hybrid work schedule. There are no mandatory in-lab days, however criminalists should expect to be in the lab at least one day per week (Tues) for verifications and QA reviews. 

Benefits Overview 

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • AD&D insurance
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Student Loan Paydown Program
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Cell phone stipend program
  • Paid Time Off
  • 8 Paid Holidays

How to apply

To be considered for this excellent opportunity, please submit a cover letter and CV via email to Cyndi Sanborn at info@facrimelab.com.

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