FIREARMS EXAMINER at Jacksonville Sheriff's Office

This is professional work in analyzing, evaluating, making recommendations, and approving various firearms and ammunition research findings and determinations. The work requires an advanced understanding and application of the theories, principles and practices of firearms and ammunition, usually gained through degree granting schools or an equivalent level of practical knowledge gained through many years of hands on experience. Contacts require skills in understanding and/or influencing people regarding evidence and examinations of firearms and ammunition. The work is covered by well-defined procedures, practices and methods in performing the work and the worker occasionally needs to consider different courses of action or depart from standard procedures. Instructions provided by supervision are somewhat general, covering some aspects of the work but requiring employee to use some judgment. The physical demands consist of the employee being frequently required to sit or stand for long periods while performing the duties of this position and lifting objects weighing less than 50 pounds. The work environment involves the employee being subject to a typical laboratory environment and is rarely exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level can be high during firearms testing and personal protective equipment will be necessary. The employee will be routinely handling and discharging firearms. In addition the employee could be exposed to mechanical, biological and chemical hazards associated with a laboratory environment. The employee will be required to utilize personal protective equipment to include eye protection, hearing protection, and specialized clothing barriers to blood and other bodily fluids. Firearms Examiners work in a specialized forensic science discipline conducting examinations of physical evidence submitted by Law Enforcement agencies investigating cases involving firearms, ammunition and potentially related fired ammunition components. The position requires advanced technical, independent research and analytical skills to evaluate evidence. Examiner provides technical and Expert Witness assistance to Law Enforcement partners in investigations and the Judicial System. Evidence processing includes the utilization of technology such as the Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS) equipment and the National Ballistic Integrated Information Network (NIBIN) to rapidly identify firearms and fired cartridge casings used in multiple incidents.

• Conducts technical and scientific examinations of exhibit material submitted by law enforcement personnel to assist with criminal investigations and to develop criminal intelligence.
• Such duties include examining and test firing firearms for functionality along with examining and comparing fired cartridge casings and projectiles microscopically.
• Incorporates the findings resulting from these examinations into reports which form a basis for legal proceedings.
• Provides expert testimony to courts of law in the identification and comparison of firearm evidence. This involves being qualified as an expert witness based upon knowledge, experience and current proficiency.
• Provides direct court testimony based on forensic examination and analysis of exhibit material.
• Periodically attends and participates in continuing education training and professional meetings.
• Updates professional expertise through regular study of new developments in current literature and by attending courses, seminars and industry meetings.
• Conducts technical reviews of casework performed by co-workers including verification of identifications.
• Directs and participates in quality assurance reviews and audits.
• Develops and conducts training programs for personnel throughout the agency and with external partners as needed.
• Performs administrative responsibilities.
• Conducts safety inspections and reviews to ensure departmental policy and industry standards are followed.
• Provides tours and presentations to agency personnel, external law enforcement members, prosecutors and other individuals or groups as directed. Interacts with vendors and industry personnel to evaluate new technology, equipment and processes.
• Demonstrates proficiency in the City of Jacksonville's competencies.
• Performs related work as required.

• Knowledge of the terminology, principles and analytical techniques used in the analysis of evidence as it applies to the forensic laboratory.
• Knowledge of the correct procedures of providing expert testimony in court.
• Knowledge of the procedures for packaging, handling and preserving evidence.
• Knowledge of what constitutes physical evidence.
• Knowledge of the scientific method for conducting research.
• Skill in the use of scientific laboratory equipment.
• Skill in calibrating and maintaining laboratory equipment.
• Ability to conduct forensic scientific experiments, analyze results, formulate conclusions and present findings verbally and in writing.
• Ability to effectively train individuals of groups in forensic laboratory analysis techniques and procedures.
• Ability to give sworn testimony as an expert witness in court.
• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Open Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution with a major in a physical or natural science.
• Completion of a Firearms and Tool Mark training program facilitated by an accredited (ANAB, ISO or ASCLD) laboratory.
• At least four (4) years of professional independent firearms case work.
• A minimum of ten (10) or more times as an expert witness in trial (state and or federal court).
• At least four (4) years' professional experience working with the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).

 

Licensing/Certification/Registration

• FL Class E Driver's License Is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.
• City of Jacksonville Public Driver Certification, must qualify for prior to appointment, obtain and maintain during employment.
• Firearms Examiner Certification by an accredited laboratory (ANAB, ISO or ACSLD) is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.
• ATF/Forensic (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) Technology National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) Certification is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.

Other Requirements

• The probation period for this class is six (6) months.
• This classification performs safety-sensitive functions and is subject to pre-employment, random and other drug/alcohol testing programs as set forth in the City of Jacksonville's Drug Free Workplace Policy (0401).

The City of Jacksonville is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and will provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants in compliance with all applicable federal and state employment laws and the current interpretation of employment discrimination by the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as set forth in Directive 0528.  There shall be no discrimination or harassment against any person with regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, political affiliation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other impermissible factor in recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, placement, promotion, discipline, demotion, transfers, layoff, recall, termination, working conditions and related terms and conditions of employment.