CBI Forensic Scientist III (Firearms Examiner) - Statewide.

Overview Department Information This posting is open to current and non-current residents of the State of Colorado at the time of submitting your application. However, if you are selected and accept the position, you will be required to establish residence in the State of Colorado. While the full salary range for this position is listed, this position will be hired within the salary range $94,572-$108,941.16. An eligible list established with this recruitment may be used to fill other similar positions within the Colorado Department of Public Safety in the next 12 months. Our Mission - Engaged employees working together to safeguard lives and to provide diverse public safety services to local communities. Our Vision - Creating safer and more resilient communities across Colorado. Our Core Values – Unity, Honor, Service. The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness. The State is resolute in non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities. At CDPS we nurture a centric culture driven by our commitment of creating a safer Colorado, an inclusive workplace where everyone can be their own authentic self. We model a culture of collaboration, support and growth to our employees. Our culture has public service focus, and we strive to provide innovative solutions and services to our fellow Coloradans. Description Of Job About the Work Unit The Colorado Bureau of Investigation Forensic Services maintains four operational forensic science laboratories throughout the state: Denver, Pueblo, Grand Junction and the Northern Region. Forensic Services is responsible for the scientific analysis of physical evidence collected from crime scenes. The role of our scientists is to evaluate and examine the evidence using the latest state of the art techniques, and objectively testify for the prosecution or defense for the federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that we serve. We strive to build and maintain partnerships with law enforcement agencies and within the communities we serve. Work Environment 100% in-person, Office, sedentary, Typical work hours, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. About The Job The Forensic Scientist III is the Colorado Bureau of Investigation Forensic Services (CBIFS) technical expert in a specific forensic discipline(s) or sub-discipline(s). This position is responsible for the preservation, analysis and interpretation of physical evidence collected in criminal cases for federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The Forensic Scientist III must perform all technical and administrative aspects of the work at the highest level of quality, ensuring the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025 are met. Technical aspects include handling and secure storage of evidence, chain of custody, laboratory safety and all facets of casework. Administrative aspects include evidence tracking, entering accurate and complete case documentation into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or other data information systems, and timely report writing. This position may provide expert courtroom testimony, serve in an advisory capacity within their discipline, and train and mentor newer employees. The Forensic Scientist III serves as a liaison with law enforcement partners and must demonstrate high levels of customer service. The position requires ongoing proficiency testing and professional development. This role may advise and assist Forensic Scientist I/II personnel. Key Responsibilities Technical Duties Ensure the integrity of evidence by maintaining the chain of custody and security of the evidence at all times. Utilize equipment and instrumentation properly; perform quality checks; ensure chemicals, reagents, solvents and standards meet quality requirements and safety standards. Conduct thorough, timely technical reviews of casework. Handle complex cases, apply established theory, principles, and professional standards to complete analyses. Adhere to procedures for the discipline; document and report uncertainty of measurement and sampling plans; follow interpretation/opinion criteria. Comply with ISO/IEC 17025 and CBIFS policies (DOM, QM, EP, LIMS, and Training Manual). Advise, train, mentor, and assist Forensic Scientist I/II personnel; may serve as lead trainer. Administrative Manage administrative duties affecting preservation, analysis, and interpretation of evidence; maintain accountability in LIMS. Prepare precise, accurate reports in a timely manner; report deviations to management; complete proficiency tests within specified time frames. Participate in audits; conduct root cause analyses when errors arise; provide expert courtroom testimony as needed. Ensure compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and CBIFS policies; advise, train, and mentor junior staff in administrative aspects. Liaison Provide high-level customer service to law enforcement partners and internal/external customers; collaborate professionally with stakeholders. Provide expert witness testimony and advise on customer service aspects of the position; seek guidance from management when uncertain. Professional Development Remain up to date with current information pertaining to the discipline to perform required functions effectively. Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology, chemistry, or another natural science field, and a minimum of two years of professional full-time law enforcement firearm and toolmark casework experience in a crime laboratory performing analysis for criminal cases (excluding training/internships). A copy of official or unofficial transcripts must be provided at the time of application. Substitutions: a master’s or doctoral degree may substitute for the bachelor’s degree. There is no substitution for the two years of required experience. Preferred Qualifications Professional forensic science certification from a CDPS-recognized certification organization (e.g., ABC, AFTE, IAI). Experience or training in related firearms sub-disciplines (distance determination, tool marks, serial number restoration). Experience in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory. Conditions Of Employment Background investigation including polygraph, criminal history, PEP, psychological evaluation, driving history, and drug test. Current valid driver’s license at time of hire; must obtain Colorado driver’s license within 6 months. May be required to drive state vehicle and travel for work. May handle hazardous materials; exposure to toxic chemicals may occur. Appeal Rights Elimination notices may be appealed to the State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director within 10 days of notice. Additional information on appeals is available at the Colorado State Personnel Board website. Appeals must be submitted in writing to the provided address. Supplemental Information Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available. Colorado’s equal opportunity and merit-based hiring policies apply. For accommodations, contact View email address on click.appcast.io. Recruitment Timeline Information and Important Notices Applications are considered complete at submission; additional information may not be solicited after submission. Closing Date: Applications meeting minimum qualifications proceed to the next step; selection follows merit-based processes. Supplemental Question responses should relate to professional experience and organizational values. AI-generated responses are not advised. Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts may be required; international transcripts may require U.S. evaluation. Documentation must be included with the application. #J-18808-Ljbffr State of Colorado