Criminalist (DNA Special Skills)

Job Description and Duties

The Criminalist classification is an entry, training, and sub-journey level position. Criminalists perform routine and less complex biology and DNA examinations and analyses. They may assist higher-level Criminalists in scientific investigations and the examination of physical evidence at crime scenes.

You will find additional information about the job in the .

Special Requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a fingerprint check prior to being hired.
• The position(s) requires that incumbents pass a Background Investigation prior to being hired. The Background Investigation may  include Criminal Background and a review of any governmental records.
• The position requires that incumbents pass a Medical Evaluation. You will be required to submit to a Medical Evaluation and receive  clearance prior to being hired.
• The position(s) require(s) you to complete and pass a Drug Screening test prior to being hired.

• To be appointed to this position as a Criminalist you must meet the minimum qualifications as stated in the class specifications, be eligible for transfer, reinstatement, or have current list eligibility. To complete the exam please visit:  CalCareers - Exam
• Candidates who have graduated from college with a major in one of the physical or biological sciences but do not have 3 semester hours of Quantitative Analysis will be admitted to the examination, but they must provide proof of completion of the 3 semester hours of Quantitative Analysis before they are eligible for appointment.
• To be appointed to this position as a Senior Criminalist you must be eligible for transfer, reinstatement, or have current list eligibility. This classification does not offer an ongoing exam.

Desirable Qualifications

In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:

Knowledge of: Scientific techniques and equipment used in the laboratory and at crime scenes; tests for the identity and comparison of blood and physiological fluids; tests for explosives and flammable materials; toxicological analyses; tests of hairs, fibers, glass, soil, paint, and similar materials, as well as the necessary equipment to conduct these tests; modern methods and techniques in investigations of major crimes; current trends in toxicology, general chemistry, and microchemistry; modern types of small arms and the techniques of conducting all types of firearms, bullet, and toolmark comparisons; methods used in the examination of documents in criminal cases; photographic and photomicrographic principles and practices as applied to criminalistics; chromatographic techniques; and modern office methods, supplies, and equipment.

Ability to: Make extensive use of scientific methods and techniques at crime scenes; make effective use of microscopes, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and Capillary Electrophoresis; recognize the need for and develop and evaluate new test methods and procedures; analyze situations accurately and take effective action; conduct applied research to develop and validate state-of-the-art evidence examination techniques; testify effectively in court; instruct law enforcement and forensic personnel in criminalistics; consistently exercise a high degree of initiative, confidentiality, independence, good judgment, and flexibility while performing a wide variety of duties; adjust to changing priorities; work well under pressure; work effectively with all levels of staff and other state and local agencies; and keep good records.

DOJ’s DNA programs comply with the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories. In accordance with these standards, a DNA Special Skills Criminalist must have successfully completed the following college coursework, or the equivalent, in order to qualify as an analyst in a DNA program:

• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• Statistics and/or Population Genetics

Candidates who have not completed the FBI QAS-required college coursework may apply for DNA Special Skills positions; however, only the most qualified candidates will be selected to move forward in the selection process.

Benefits

Benefit information can be found on the website and the website

Additional Application Filing Information

Please note, if using the United States Postal Service for delivery, there is no guarantee that your application will be date stamped and will arrive by the final filing date. If your application does not have a postmark or date stamp and arrives after the final filing date, your application will not be accepted. Therefore, to ensure timely delivery of your application, it is recommended that you use either electronic delivery, parcel service, or certified mail. Using one of these options will provide proof of delivery prior to the final filing date.

Required Application Package Documents

The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:

• Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
• Resume is required and must be included.
• Other - Candidates must submit a copy of college transcripts and a copy of your college degree(s). Official transcripts will be required upon appointment.