Criminalist I

Criminalist I is an entry-level classification in which the incumbent works under close supervision. Incumbents handle the more routine cases and receive a substantial amount of on-the-job training, working closely with senior staff members in a tutorial/intern atmosphere. 

Criminalists utilize scientific methods and techniques in the recognition, collection, and characterization of physical and digital evidence in the Crime Laboratory as well as at crime scenes. They prepare written reports regarding their findings and provide expert testimony in court. They perform related duties as required. All positions are located in the Sheriff's Office and may be subject to overtime.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:
Possession of a Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biology, Criminalistics, or a closely related physical science field.

License:
Candidates for all three classes must possess a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License.

Special Requirements:
1) Candidates for all three classes must be found to be free of uncorrected colorblindness at the time of the County pre-employment physical examination.
2) A thorough background investigation will be conducted of all prospective Criminalists to ensure they are suitable for law enforcement-related work.
3) Criminalists will be required to work day, evening, night, rotating shifts, or call-back shifts including weekends and holidays.

NOTE: The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualifications in the announcement of an examination.
 

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

The most suitably qualified candidates will possess the following competencies:

Knowledge of:
• The principles of forensic science, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, microscopy, statistics, photography, and natural sciences as related to forensic laboratory examinations and crime scene processing.
• Basic principles of operation for scientific instruments and apparatus used in forensic laboratory examinations and crime scene processing.
• Modern criminal investigation and identification techniques and procedures.
• Basic laboratory safety procedures.
• Basic legal and courtroom processes.


Ability to:
• Conduct basic chemical, instrumental, biological, microscopic, digital, and other forensic laboratory analyses as required.
• Conduct crime scene documentation, evidence collection, and interpretation as required.
• Present evidence clearly and accurately in court when called on as an expert witness.
• Prepare and maintain clear, accurate, and detailed case records, statistics, and reports.
• Provide training and assist in evaluating the work of others.
• Follow detailed technical instructions while maintaining an exceptional level of quality.
• Approach change positively.
• Learn and assimilate information in a timely manner.
• Identify issues and develop solutions.
• Maintain focus under pressure.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, with scientists, law enforcement personnel, attorneys, the public, and the courts.
• Work effectively in an environment in which the incumbent may encounter disturbing, sensitive, or confidential situations.
• Work effectively in a highly structured, rank-organized environment.
• Establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.
• Work safely with a wide variety of materials that may contain biohazards and/or hazardous materials.
• Effectively resolve analytical problems through the application of logical thought processes, consultation of the scientific literature, and/or applied research.
• Respond to crime scenes outside of normal working hours.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Alameda County has a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need. Alameda County does not discriminate in employment on the basis of, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors protected under federal, state and local law. Alameda County celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace environment.