POSITION SUMMARY

The Forensic Scientist in the Toxicology section performs timely and accurate toxicology analyses for the Houston Forensic Science Center. S/he will independently perform routine analytical tests of biological specimens in human performance toxicology cases, prepare reports on findings for use in the criminal justice system, and provide court testimony on test results.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs routine chemical analysis of human biological specimens using chemical and instrumental methodologies to detect alcohol and drugs in biological matrices and
• Prepares accurate and precise notes and technical
• Maintains and calibrates scientific instruments and follows quality control measures to ensure instruments meet required performance standards.
• Reviews work of other scientists and conduct administrative and technical review of casework if qualified.
• Performs experiments under supervision to troubleshoot analytical issues and to participate in development and validation of analytical methods as needed.
• Provides technical assistance to police officers, members of the district attorney’s office, and other members of law enforcement agencies, and the criminal justice community.
• Testifies as an expert witness regarding analytical procedures and the scientific conclusions drawn from analysis.
• Partners with management and other staff to ensure other tasks are completed as

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience

• Minimum of one year of work experience in toxicology using advanced equipment and instrumentation in a forensic laboratory is required.
• Proven experience with analysis of volatile and drugs in biological specimens is
• Experience in operating gas chromatography/liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry systems is recommended.
• Working knowledge and experience with a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, specifically Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, and Microsoft’s cloud‐based service, SharePoint.
• Proven experience presenting testimony in a court of law as an expert witness is a
• Demonstrated ability to work with frequent interruptions and changing
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective communications and working relationships with fellow staff members, internal clients, and external clients.

Education, Training & Certifications

• The position requires a baccalaureate or advanced degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science from an accredited College‐level statistics is required. A postgraduate degree is strongly preferred.
• Certification by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology is
• License by the Texas Forensic Science Commission as a Toxicologist (Interpretive) is
• Working knowledge of principles, practices, and terminology of analytical chemistry as it applies to the field of forensic toxicology.
• Working knowledge of current developments in the field of Toxicology; through knowledge of modern laboratory principles.
• Working knowledge of pharmacological and toxicological principles as applied to forensic toxicology analysis and interpretation.
• Demonstrated skills at effective project

Competencies

• Accountability ‐ Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her
• Accuracy – Ability to perform work accurately and
• Analytical Skills – Ability to use thinking and reasoning to solve a
• Communication, Oral and Written – Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word; ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely.
• Detail Oriented – Ability to pay attention to minute details or a project or
• Ethical – Ability to demonstrate conduct conforming to a set of values and accepted
• Initiative – Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a
• Organized – Ability to be structured and methodical in working
• Relationship Building – Ability to effectively build relationships with clients and co‐workers.
• Reliability – the trait of being dependable and

Physical Demands

• Although most duties can be accomplished from a seated position with occasional walking and standing, the incumbent may need to squat or bend, reach outward or upward to effectively discharge job duties.
• Job incumbent must be able to lift/carry and/or push/pull up to 40
• Job incumbent must be willing to travel to off‐site

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Houston Forensic Center was formed to provide accurate and timely analysis of forensic evidence and related services.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENT

Houston Forensic Center has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions are included with the duties and responsibilities. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REVIEW AND APPROVAL

This job description is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the agency reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the agency may deem appropriate.