Applications are invited for the following post in the Institute of Forensic Science and Legal Medicine: Chief Forensic Science Officer (SOG/ST 8) – (Vacant), salary range $2,555,681 - $3,037,902 per annum and any allowance(s) attached to the post.
Chief Forensic Science Officer (SOG/ST 8)
Job Purpose
The Chief Forensic Science Officer will plan, schedule, supervise and evaluate work and activities of the Chemistry Department. The incumbent will assign cases and perform scientific analyses, prepare technical and management reports, as well as provide technical advice and guidance to the Forensic Unit and members of the Criminal Justice System.
Key Responsibilities
Professional/Technical:
- Prepares findings for Court presentations;
- Consults and co-ordinates with experts, Police Officers, Attorneys, etc., on plans for the solutions of problems involving analysis, identification and comparison of physical evidence;
- Presents exhibits in Court collected from scenes visited, if the need arises;
- Conducts research in the development of new techniques, methods and equipment;
- Analyzes most forms of physical evidence by chemical, physical and instrumental techniques;
- Serves as consultant to Forensic Officers when making the more difficult decisions relating to choice and applications of chemical and physical analysis and when developing quality findings and conclusions regarding analysis of the complex cases;
- Monitors case submissions and turnaround time, ensuring cases are processed in an accurate, complete and timely manner;
- Oversees analysis of physical evidence by chemical, physical and instrumental techniques;
- Assists in the procurement of laboratory equipment and reagents;
- Directs and participates in the receipt and dispatch of casework exhibits;
- Directs and participates in field investigations at scenes of crime and other pertinent locations to search for, collect and preserve evidence which will be the subject of laboratory analysis and comparison;
- Carries out research as it relates to method development, Standard Operating Procedures and general improvement of laboratory functions;
- Delivers presentations to law enforcement and legal personnel.
Administrative:
-
Manages and supervises Technicians, Forensic Officers and Senior Forensic Officers engaged in performingInstructs law enforcement personnel and legal personnel in the proper procedures in handling, collecting, identifying and preserving physical evidence;
- Develops and implements Forensic Training Programmes for Police Officers, on evidence recognition, collection and evaluation;
- Develops training programmes for other Forensic Scientists, Attorneys or Court Administrators with respect to analysis of evidence and evaluation of the findings from both scientific and legal aspects;
- Prepares findings for Court presentation, depositions and interviews; interprets scientific-legal questions; provides testimony;
- Conducts Departmental Audits on general laboratory procedures, instrumentation and safety;
- Evaluates Instrument Calibration and Maintenance records;
- Demonstrates continuous efforts to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes and work co-operatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service;
- Recommends training to improve the quality of Laboratory Staff;
- Researches and proposes improvements in the quality systems of the Laboratory;
- Prepares Administrative Reports and recommendations on laboratory operations and developments;
- Monitors and evaluates the performance of staff in the Department;
- Performs other related functions assigned from time to time.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
Technical:
- Knowledge of the theory and application of organic, inorganic, analytical and physical Chemistry
- Knowledge of principles, methods, materials, equipment and techniques of Forensic Science
- Comprehensive knowledge of instrumental analysis including chromatography, spectrometry, microscopic analysis
- Ability to plan, organize, make efficient use of time and manage multiple tasks
- Demonstrated knowledge of the Forensic Institute operations
- Knowledge of Government Practice, Policy, Procedure, Statutes, Ordinances and Criminal Law as it relates to Forensic Science
Core:
- Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Excellent Word Processing skills and related software applications
- Ability to multitask and prioritize
- Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events
- Effectively operate a variety of Forensic Laboratory equipment
- Ability to organize, supervise and direct reports
- Ability to maintain integrity
Minimum Required Qualification and Experience
- Masters Degree in Chemistry/Forensic Science/Toxicology from an accredited University or College;
- Three (3) years working experience in Forensic Science and/or Forensic Chemistry.
Special Condition Associated with the Job
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals and/or situations.
Applications accompanied by Résumés should be submitted no later than Thursday January 27, 2022 to:
Director
Human Resource Management, Development and Administration (Acting)
Institute of Forensic Science and Legal Medicine
2 ½ Hope Boulevard
Kingston 6
Email:vacanciesfslab@gmail.com
Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.