Job Specification Details

Professional laboratory work involving firearms and toolmarks and their related examinations for the Vermont Forensic Laboratory. Work is performed under the supervision of the Physical Comparison Unit Supervisor.

Examines firearms, fired bullets, cartridge cases, tools, toolmarked surfaces, clothing and other items containing gunpowder and/or firearm propellant pattern analysis or bullet holes, and formulates opinions based upon training and experience. Receives, maintains, records, and keeps custody of incoming evidence in order to preserve and maintain chain of custody of evidence and/or information for use in future legal/criminal proceedings. Prepares interpretative reports of findings. Testifies under oath as an expert witness. Conducts serial number restoration and physical match examinations. Is capable of conducting shooting reconstructions through standard ballistic calculations and computer programs. Maintains reference firearms collection and destroys firearms for law enforcement agencies. Prepares reagents, including those of a hazardous nature. Instructs and lectures on the recognition, collection, and preservation of evidence. Evaluates technical literature and analytical procedures. Attends training courses, conferences and seminars. Performs related work as required.

Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to noxious or harmful fumes and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment. Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator's license.

Knowledge of forensic methods, techniques and theory.

Knowledge of modern laboratory methods, equipment, materials and safety standards.

Knowledge of the properties of hazardous and toxic material substances, their physiological effects, and proper methods and procedures for disposal.

Skill in the use and care of laboratory equipment and materials.

Knowledge of forensic toolmark examination techniques, as well as theoretical and practical

knowledge of firearms, ammunition and ammunition components, production and matching techniques.

Knowledge and understanding of firearm and toolmark identification theory and pattern matching, as well as firing distance estimation, based on chemical residue pattern analysis.

Knowledge of firearms ballistics and shooting reconstruction.

Ability to interpret data.

Ability to formulate valid conclusions on the basis of tests and data.

Ability to make and defend decisions.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Ph.D. in criminology, forensic science, criminal justice, or related field.

OR

Master’s degree in criminology, forensic science, criminal justice, or related field AND one (1) year or more of experience in a forensic laboratory as a qualified firearm-toolmark examiner.

OR

Bachelor’s degree in criminology, forensic science, criminal justice, or related field two (2) or more years of experience in a forensic laboratory as a qualified firearm-toolmark examiner.

20/20 vision, either natural or with correction. Physical ability to meet the practical demands of the discipline, i.e. render safe, disassemble, reassemble and fire firearms.