Chemist evaluates the chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic substances. Utilizes established methods and procedures and laboratory equipment to perform analytical testing of substances. Being a Chemist prepares compounds, reagents and solutions. Develop and write technical reports of testing results. Additionally, Chemist requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. To be a Chemist typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office
Crime Lab
Quality System Procedures Manual Effective ǀ 19 December
Job Description Forensic Scientist 2023
Revision ǀ 1
Job Title Forensic Scientist
Department Crime Lab
Rank Deputy
Reports To Sergeant
FLSA Status Non-exempt
Salary Range Based on Experience
1. Summary
This job description applies to the analysts in the following disciplines: Controlled Substance
Analysis
Apply scientific principles to analysis, identification, and classification of evidence related to
customer requests. Draft analytical reports for use in criminal and civil cases.
Additional duties may be assigned by a commanding officer.
2. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Prepares reports/presentations/ or testifies to the findings, methods, and techniques used to
support conclusions for investigative purposes, court or other formal hearings.
Analyze evidence to determine chemical/physical properties, identity or common origin of item.
Prepare reagents and standards used in forensic testing and quality control procedures.
Distinguish colors to determine test results.
Operate a variety of technical instrumentation for evidence examination including but not limited
to: Gas Chromatograph, Mass Spectrometer, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer,
Scanning Electron Microscopes, Stereomicroscopes, Analytical Balances, Compound Microscopes,
and Comparison Microscopes. Particular instrument use will vary with forensic discipline in
practice.
Operate a variety of computer systems for recording, tracking and examining evidence and
reporting results.
Continue training in assigned field through externally or internally provided classes and research
of journals, textbooks or other information resources.
Submit properly packaged and labeled evidence.
Interprets scientific data and proofreads for grammar and punctuation in the review of scientific
reports before issuance.
Contribute to the implementation, maintenance and improvement of the management system.
Contribute to the identification and prevention of departures from policy and procedure.
All Printed Versions are Not Controlled
Approved by Champagne, Alison., Letort, Kenny Page 1 of 3
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office
Crime Lab
Quality System Procedures Manual Effective ǀ 19 December
Job Description Forensic Scientist 2023
Revision ǀ 1
3. Supervisory Responsibilities
This job has no supervisory responsibilities
4. Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty
satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or
ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with
disabilities to perform the essential functions.
5. Education and/or Experience
A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in chemical, physical, or biological
science or forensic science and successful completion of internal training program are required.
Related experience and training in the relevant field of forensic science is preferred.
In addition, the following disciplines have specific minimum educational requirements
Controlled Substances Analysis: 24 semester hours of chemistry preferred.
Having previous working knowledge of Lab management software and Quality management
software would be beneficial.
6. Language Skills
Read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, crime lab policies and procedures, and
government regulations.
Write court worthy reports and professional business correspondence.
Effectively present information and respond to questions from law enforcement personnel,
attorneys, and court officials in written and verbal form.
7. Mathematical Skills
Calculate figures, distance, weights, area, circumference, and volume.
Apply concepts of and utilize fractions, ratios, proportions, and percentages.
Apply concepts of probability, statistical inference, algebra and geometry.
All Printed Versions are Not Controlled
Approved by Champagne, Alison., Letort, Kenny Page 2 of 3
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office
Crime Lab
Quality System Procedures Manual Effective ǀ 19 December
Job Description Forensic Scientist 2023
Revision ǀ 1
8. Reasoning Ability
Solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only
limited standardization exists.
Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
9. Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Valid Louisiana Motor Vehicle Operator’s License
Proof of residency of St. Tammany Parish
Birth certificate
Social Security Card.
10. Physical Demands
Regular use of hands and fingers to handle or feel; Reach above head with hands and arms;
Balance or climb (on steps and ladders); Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; Talk or hear; Smell
The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, and lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.
Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision,
depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
11. Work Environment
The work environment may include exposure to outside weather conditions; toxic or caustic
chemicals; risk of electrical shock; moderate noise levels, and blood borne pathogens.
May be required to work flexible hours and to travel.
All Printed Versions are Not Controlled
Approved by Champagne, Alison., Letort, Kenny Page 3 of 3
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