Under general direction, is responsible for training and overseeing work performed by Toxicology Chemists in toxicology laboratory operations; monitors analytical equipment operability and accuracy; maintains inventory listings; orders chemicals and supplies; and performs related duties as required.
Duties and Responsibilities
Evaluates and develops methods for the isolation and identification of drugs and poisons in biological specimens with particular attention to accuracy and precision
Maintains laboratory statistics, inventories and orders supplies
Performs qualitative and quantitative assays for therapeutic drugs, drugs of abuse and other substances in biological specimens
Provides training in analytical techniques, methodologies and instrumentation for junior personnel
Exhibits proficiency in the operation of sophisticated analytical instrumentation including Gas Chromatography, Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry and Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry to include development of new instrumental methods and evaluation of instrument conditions
Assists the Chief Toxicologist in the development and monitoring of compliance with the laboratory quality assurance and safety program; participates in proficiency and quality control programs; analytical results must consistently fall within acceptable limits as defined by submitting agencies and written policies
Investigates non-compliance with quality control requirements and initiates corrective actions
Distributes, collects and submits proficiency tests; prepares and issues written reports on proficiency tests detailing accuracy and efficiency of work
Conducts batch review and ensures work is in compliance with laboratory SOP and quality assurance program; Maintains quality assurance records and submits reports to Chief Toxicologist for review
Receives, accessions, aliquots, extracts, analyzes and stores biological specimens in accordance with written laboratory procedures and in adherence with evidentiary chain of custody practices
Prepares and transfers specimens to other laboratories for further testing in adherence with chain of custody requirements and written laboratory procedures
Assists in the destruction of stored specimens or the return of such specimens to the original contributor in adherence with laboratory policy and the normal standards of forensic practice
Maintains laboratory records and reports in accordance with standard forensic practice and submits reports to the Chief Toxicologist for review
Prepares reagents, buffers and standards used in analysis in accordance with written procedures
Testifies in Court concerning laboratory procedures, protocols, analysis and as an expert in the field of forensic toxicology
Handles hazardous materials and hazardous waste, ensuring proper safety precautions are taken in storing and disposition of these materials; engages in good laboratory practices to ensure the safety of all laboratory personnel; practices universal precautions when handling biological materials
Reads the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory Standard Operating Procedure manual on a yearly basis and complies with those procedures
May perform final technical case review for the Chief Toxicologist in a relief capacity as directed by the Chief Medical Examiner
Performs related duties as required
Minimum Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or a closely related field with five (5) years laboratory experience in toxicology OR; a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or a related field with seven (7) years of laboratory experience.
Must be certified by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology, fellow or diplomat in forensic toxicology, or become certified within two years
Comprehensive knowledge of analytical chemistry and instrument theory; knowledge of toxicology and laboratory equipment operation
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; ability to perform statistical analysis; ability to organize and compile data; ability to operate personal computer and basic office equipment; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, County employees, outside organizations, the news media and the general public
Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation from Federal Bureau of Investigation and Bexar County Human Resources Office
Must clear a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen test
Must have available transportation during entire workday; must have a valid driver's license
May be required to work more than 40 hours during the workweek
Working Environment and Physical Demands:
Working in indoor conditions; laboratory environment with frequent exposure to blood, biological materials, and infectious diseases; occasional exposure to hazardous materials, chemical solvents, corrosive chemicals, flammable liquids, unfavorable fumes, vapors or odors, and radiation
Frequently moves items weighing up to 10 pounds
Occasionally moves items weighing up to 20-30 pounds
Occasionally moves about the laboratory and office
Frequently communicates with others; must be able to exchange accurate information
Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery
Must have hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate complex laboratory equipment