This is professional work at the trainee in evaluating and analyzing various firearms and ammunition components. The work requires an understanding 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 is mandatory.  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 and fired ammunition components. The position requires advanced technical, independent research and analytical skills to evaluate evidence.  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 associate firearms and fired cartridge cases 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 screening fired cartridge cases microscopically.
• Incorporates the findings resulting from these examinations into reports which form a basis for legal proceedings.
• 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.
• Assists in quality assurance reviews and audits.
• Performs administrative responsibilities.
• Conducts safety inspections and reviews to ensure departmental policy and industry standards are followed.
• 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 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.
• Skill in understanding examinations of firearms and ammunition evidence.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to testify in court regarding results of testing.
• Ability to conduct laboratory tests.

Open Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution with a major in a physical or natural science is preferred. 

• Three (3) years of education and/or professional experience in biological or physical science, examination of forensic evidence, and/or the laboratory testing of materials.

• Must complete a Firearms and Tool Mark Technologist Training program (based on the Florida Department Of Law Enforcement Forensic Technologist Training Program) facilitated by a Firearms Examiner within twelve (12) months of appointment.

 LICENSING/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRATION: 

• ATF/Forensic (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) Firearms Technology National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) Certification is required within twelve months of appointment & must be maintained. 
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license during employment in this class.  Must qualify for, obtain, and maintain a City of Jacksonville public driver certification for employment in this class. 

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:  

• The probation period for this class is twelve (12) 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.