Forensic Scientist I, II, III (Firearms Examiner)
Location: Gaithersburg, MD
Job ID: IRC62499
Salary: $61,041 - $120,947
Closing Date: May 2, 2024
This is professional and technical work applying forensic science in the examination of firearms, toolmarks, and serial number restoration associated with routine and complicated police investigations involving firearms and firearm related evidence. Personal contacts include investigative officers to give and received information; State's Attorneys to discuss "expert" court testimony concerning the analysis of firearms and firearm related evidence, crime scene unit personnel regarding matters related to the collection and processing of evidence; and the State and Federal law enforcement representatives to articulate concepts, discuss technical information, and resolve problems.
An employee conducts examinations, which include the following:
Microscopic comparisons of evidence and known specimens for the purpose of source identification; testing firearms for function, operability, and safety; NIBIN screening, entry, and correlations; and restoration of obliterated serial numbers.
The employee is responsible for planning and carrying out assignments and has full technical responsibility for the work. Due to sensitive legal nature of the work, the employee is required to apply complex technical procedures to make critical and accurate identifications. Performance of the work of this position involves occasional exposure to elevated noise levels resulting from the discharging of firearms, and exposure to lead and residues from blood and body fluids on bullets and firearms.
The work requires strict observance of safety precautions and procedures in utilizing chemicals to perform various forensic analyses applicable to firearms and toolmark examinations, and in handling and operating firearms. Performance of the work involves occasional long periods of standing while conducting examinations at laboratory counters, and the lifting and carrying of weapons and ammunition boxes weighing up to fifty pounds.
