Firearms Examiner I

FIREARMS EXAMINER I 21850 (Non-Competitive) DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS The work involves responsibility for processing items of physical evidence for the purpose of firearms, ammunition, and tool mark identification and analysis using various physical and chemical methods. This is the entry-level class in the Firearms Examiner series. Incumbents in this class receive training in higher skill level duties and perform examinations under close supervision. An employee in this class reads relevant materials and attends training sessions on-site and off-site in all aspects of firearms examination and forensic laboratory practices. Routine work is performed independently, but assignments that are more complex may be performed under direct supervision, depending on the level of difficulty. General supervision is received from the Senior Firearms Examiner. Work is reviewed by a technical or administrative supervisor through conference, a review of the work performed and reports issued. Does related work as required. TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES Performs examinations of ammunition, spent bullets and casings, and the determination and recording of their physical parameters using measuring projectors, micrometers and other equipment. Performs examinations of firearms, bullets, shells, casings and other weapons. Performs tool mark examinations. Conducts comparison examinations regarding tool marks, spent projectiles, spent cartridge casings and shots shells. Performs examinations on clothing, bedding and other surfaces for the presence of gunshot residues or powder patterns. Performs data entry function for the Integrated Ballistics Information System while following all established policies and procedures for this federal database. Performs chemical restoration of obliterated serial numbers and other markings on weapons. May receive, store and disposition evidence. Performs QC documentation Testifies in court regarding laboratory analyses and the significance of the results. Attends meetings onsite and offsite. Performs photography using digital and conventional photographic equipment. Takes notes and issues written reports. Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned. FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS Good knowledge of the design, construction and operation of firearms and the various types of ammunition. Good knowledge of the safe operation of firearms. Working knowledge of tool manufacture as it applies to the identification of tools and marks. Ability to analyze and evaluate information and to construct logical conclusions. Ability to make sound judgments. Ability to interpret laboratory analysis techniques, procedures and theories, orally and in writing, in a clear and concise manner so that the non-scientist may understand the significance of the results obtained utilizing these procedures. Ability to demonstrate initiative, motivation and dependability. Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS A) Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees within the last ten (10) years with a Bachelor's Degree or higher in a natural science, forensic science, criminalistics or a closely related field. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: Applicants will be required to undergo a State and national criminal history background investigation which will include a fingerprint check to determine suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification. 07/2022 Date Revised