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Job Description
CAREER DESCRIPTION
FORENSIC SPECIALIST
SALARY INFORMATION
In addition to performance based merit increases, this position is scheduled to receive salary range increases on the following date:
Effective June 27, 2025 - 4.00% increase
Salary may be negotiable within the range listed above, based on position requirements and successful candidate's qualifications, subject to appropriate authorization.
COMING SOON!
This recruitment is open to the public and is being held to establish an open eligible list to fill current and future Forensic Specialist vacancies with Orange County Sheriff's Department, Crime Lab Division. This recruitment may also be used to fill positions in similar and/or lower level classifications.
The recruitment will advertise from January 23, 2025 to January 28, 2025. Interested job-seekers will not be able to apply during this advertisement period.
Applications will be accepted starting on January 29, 2025 on a continuous basis and may close as early as 11:59 p.m. (PST) on the day the needs of the department are met.
THE DIVISION
The Orange County Crime Laboratory (OCCL) applies sound scientific principles to the collection, evaluation and interpretation of physical evidence to support the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases in Orange County. There are five laboratory bureaus in the OCCL:
The Criminalistics Bureau: Provides crime scene investigation (CSI) services; trace evidence analysis of items such as hairs, fibers, and fire debris; firearms and tool mark examinations and comparisons; and the analysis of controlled substances.
The DNA Bureau: Analyzes biological material recovered in sexual assault, homicide and high volume crime cases for DNA to identify suspects in those cases, and analyzes DNA related to the re-investigation of past unsolved homicide and sexual assault cases.
The Forensic Chemistry Bureau: Contains the Breath and Blood Forensic Alcohol programs and the Toxicology Unit where criminal and coroner samples are analyzed for drugs and poisons.
The Identification Bureau: Provides field services for crime scene investigation, photo lab services, scene and evidence processing to recover latent fingerprints, and latent fingerprint comparisons.
The CAL-ID Bureau: Administers the automated fingerprint identification systems to speed the identification of new arrestees and to link crime scene latent fingerprints with known criminals.
Click here for OC Crime Lab website
Click here for OCSD website
THE OPPORTUNITY
This is the entry level class in the Forensic Specialist series, and work is typically performed under direct supervision of a Supervising Forensic Specialist. Incumbents in this class perform routine crime scene processing and laboratory assignments for which well defined procedures and guidelines have been established; assist on complex assignments under close supervision; perform latent to inked friction ridge comparisons, process and record crime scenes through technical photography, detailed note taking and rough sketches; photograph autopsies and post embalming; collect biological and DNA evidence from body fluids and handled items; search crime scenes for friction ridge detail and other physical evidence; develop latent friction ridge detail; perform routine laboratory examinations on physical evidence using established methodologies, prepare finished crime scene sketches for court and prepare reports reflecting work activity; testify in court as to their activities. Assignments in this classification are made to the crime scene investigation unit, to the latent print comparison or processing laboratory, and/or to the Photo Laboratory.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Click here to learn more about the minimum qualifications for the Forensic Specialist classification as well as the physical & mental requirements and the environmental conditions.
***Transcripts and Certificates must be attached to the application. Documents will be verified.
In addition to the minimum qualifications, the ideal candidate should demonstrate the following key competencies:
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
Successful completion of a Field Evidence Technician Class, Friction Ridge Detail Class, Crime Scene Investigation/Photography class or other related Forensic Specialist related courses taught by Forensic Science and Police Science professionals
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS
Applicants must not have been convicted of a felony or be on any form of probation and must pass an extensive background investigation to the satisfaction of the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner. Background screening includes completing of a Personal History Form, interview with a background investigator, polygraph test and fingerprinting. Some of the areas considered in the background screening include prior convictions, traffic violations, drug use and credit problems, employment history, professional references and education verification (i.e. degree, license, or official transcripts. Foreign degrees require an evaluation of U.S. equivalency by an agency that is a member of the National Association of Credentials Services N.A.C.E.S.).
In addition, each candidate who receives and accepts a formal job offer will be required to provide a mouth swab specimen to be used for Forensic DNA Quality Control purposes. This specimen will be profiled and entered into the Orange County Crime Lab (OCCL) local DNA Database after analysis, and the information will remain confidential. The profile will be used to ensure evidence has not been contaminated by DNA from laboratory personnel; the collection swab and the resulting DNA extract will be destroyed after testing and entry into the OCCL local DNA Database.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
The Forensic Specialist position requires incumbents to work rotating shifts and shift hours (nights, weekends, and holidays).
After completion of probation, this position will require incumbents to participate in an on-call rotation to handle emergency calls after working normal hours, including midnights, weekends and holidays.
License Required: Possession of a valid California Driver's License, Class C or higher, by date of appointment.
RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Orange County Sheriff Human Resources screens all application materials for minimum qualifications. After screening, candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be referred to the next step in the recruitment process. All candidates will be notified via email of their status in the process. Applications must emphasize all the areas in which the applicant has expertise and accomplishments in the specific competencies related to the position.
Application Appraisal Panel |Application Rating (Refer/Non-Refer): A panel of job knowledge experts will thoroughly screen all application and supplemental questions for the job knowledge, competencies and related experience described above. The more qualified candidates will be referred to the next step. (The information you provide will be used as a scoring device, so please be descriptive in your response. "See Resume" is not a qualifying response and will not be scored in lieu of the required information.)
Structured Oral Interview (Weighted 100%) : A panel of job knowledge experts will interview and evaluate each candidate's responses to a series of structured questions designed to elicit the candidate's qualifications for the job. This is a competitive process; therefore, candidate responses to the structured questions should be thorough, detailed, and complete. Only the most successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list.
Based on the Department's needs, the selection procedures listed above may be modified. All candidates will be notified of any changes in the selection procedure.
ELIGIBLE LIST
After all procedures have been completed, Sheriff Human Resources will establish an eligible list of qualified candidates. Candidates placed on the eligible list may be referred to a selection interview to be considered for present and future vacancies.
Veterans Employment Preference Policy (VEPP)
The County is committed to providing a mechanism to give preferential consideration in the employment process to veterans and their eligible spouses and will provide eligible participants the opportunity to receive interviews in the selection process for employment and paid internship openings. Please click here to review the policy.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
Only on-line applications will be accepted. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of on-line applications. Application information must be current, succinct and related to the requirements in this job announcement. Your application should demonstrate your professional experience and education related to the specific qualifications/duties listed in this bulletin, including areas which you have developed expertise.
EMAIL NOTIFICATION : Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account. NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply. Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com .
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
QUESTIONS: For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact Mabel Cabrera at 714-834-5845 or mcabrera@ocsheriff.gov. For other recruitment information, please contact Sheriff Recruiting at 714-834-5811.
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer, encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Non-Management Benefits
In addition to the County's standard suite of benefits, such as a variety of health plan options, annual leave and paid holidays--we also offer an excellent array of benefits such as a Health Care Reimbursement Account, 457 Defined Contribution Plan and Annual Education and Professional Reimbursement. Employees are provided a Retirement Plan through the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS).
Please go to the following link to find out more about Defined Benefit Pensions and OCERS Plan Types/Benefits.
http://www.ocers.org/active-member-information
Click here for information about benefits offered to County of Orange employees.
Closing Date/Time: 1/28/2025 11:59 PM Pacific -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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County of Orange
Show moreDiscover a Fulfilling Career at the County of Orange
With a population of over 3 million residents and 34 cities, Orange County is a thriving community known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and strong economy. As the third-largest employer in the county, the County of Orange offers over 18,000 employees the opportunity to make a difference in their community and build a fulfilling career in public service.
As a County of Orange employee, you will have the chance to work in a variety of departments, each providing vital services to our community. From law enforcement and healthcare to public works and environmental protection, there is a wide range of career paths to explore. And with opportunities for advancement and professional growth, you can build a long and rewarding career with us.
As a top employer in the region, the County of Orange is committed to providing our employees with excellent benefits, including a competitive salary, flexible work schedules, and outstanding healthcare coverage. We also offer opportunities for career development and training, ensuring that our employees have the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
Whether you're just starting your career or looking for a new challenge, the County of Orange is a great place to work. With a supportive and collaborative work environment, a commitment to excellence, and opportunities for growth and advancement, we invite you to join our team and make a difference in your community.
Community Impact:
Working for the County of Orange means you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you're providing critical services to residents, protecting the environment, or maintaining public safety, your work will make a difference in the lives of those around you.
Employee Wellness:
At the County of Orange, we prioritize our employees' well-being. We offer telecommuting options, generous health benefits, and wellness programs to promote work-life balance. We believe that by taking care of our employee’s health and well-being, we can help them excel in their careers while still enjoying their personal lives and taking care of their families.
Innovation:
The County of Orange is committed to embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to service delivery. We encourage our employees to think creatively and find ways to improve our processes and systems. If you're someone who loves to problem-solve and think outside the box, you'll find a supportive and dynamic environment here.
Collaboration:
Collaboration is key to our success at the County of Orange. We value teamwork, communication, and mutual support, and we work together across departments and functions to achieve our goals. If you're someone who enjoys collaborating with others and building strong relationships, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive community here.
Equality:
At the County of Orange, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. Our Equity Policy reflects this commitment and guides our efforts to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do.
Career Advancement:
The County of Orange is dedicated to helping our employees grow and advance in their careers. We offer a variety of training and development opportunities to help our employees reach their full potential. If you're looking for a place to build a long and fulfilling career, the County of Orange is an excellent choice.
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