DNA Examiner

 

The City of Orangeburg is currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of DNA Examiner (Analyst). Duties of this position include performing biological analysis within the scope of a crime scene investigation with the purpose of linking suspects. This is technical and advanced level work involving the application of advanced laboratory techniques, materials, equipment and instruments in analyzing and typing DNA from body fluids and tissues obtained at crime scenes or elsewhere for investigative and prosecution purposes. Work is distinguished in accordance with standardized laboratory methods and controls to ensure accurate and verifiable analyses of specimens. Work is performed with considerable independence under the general direction of a supervisor.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts examinations to locate and identify body fluid stains; extracts, quantifies and profiles.

• Analyze DNA using sophisticated laboratory techniques and instrumentation.

• Operates sophisticated laboratory equipment in conducting tests.

• Completes reports of results of analyses and communicates results to appropriate department personnel.

• Provides expert court testimony relating to results of analyses; photographs and prepares graphic illustrations for court use.

• Maintains safe conditions in the laboratory and conducts laboratory procedures in accordance with approved policies.

• Performs related work as required.

REQUIREMENTS OF WORK

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with a major in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or a related field, with at least nine semester hours in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology (recombinant DNA technology or biotechnology); training or coursework in population genetics or statistics.

• Considerable knowledge of the background and use of various methods of extracting and analyzing DNA.

• Considerable knowledge of PCR, STRs, capillary electrophoresis and use of computer programs to run instrumentation and capture and analyze data.

• Considerable knowledge of statistics as related to DNA analysis of forensic samples.

• Considerable knowledge of laboratory safety and quality control procedures.

• Ability to testify effectively in court as an expert witness.

• Successful completion of a qualifying test before beginning independent DNA casework responsibilities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The essential functions of the job require a mixture of sitting, standing and walking each day; use of hands, and fingers to feel, or operate objects, tools or controls and reach with hands and arms. Duties may occasionally require to sitting, climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling; talk or hear and smell.

Occasionally employee will be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work Environment

General work environment is that of a lab, but employee may occasionally work in outside weather conditions i.e. fume, airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, etc. Noise level in the work environment ranges from quiet to moderate.

Work environment described is representative of what an employee will encounter while

performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be

made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Compensation commensurate with relevant background and experience.

Average starting range $48,500 to $57,000 with full benefits package including employer-paid medical, dental, vision, paid holidays, state retirement, life insurance, long term disability insurance and more.