08/19/2011 72059

FORENSIC DNA QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM MANAGER

DEFINITION: This is managerial and advanced professional work overseeing the quality assurance, training, and technology programs of the Forensic Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Division in the Pennsylvania State Police.

The employee in this job plans, organizes and manages the quality assurance, training, and technology programs associated with the forensic DNA discipline. Work involves developing and conducting employee training programs, administering employee proficiency testing, developing and monitoring quality assurance practices, and managing the selection and use of DNA equipment, technologies, and analytical procedures. Work also includes developing, interpreting, and directing the adherence to technical DNA policies and standards that involve training, proficiency testing, and the analysis and comparison of human DNA samples and evidence. Supervision is exercised over quality assurance specialists and other laboratory personnel. Work is performed independently and is reviewed by the Director, Forensic DNA Division through reports and conferences for effectiveness of results achieved and adherence to program requirements.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Plans, organizes, and manages the work of quality assurance specialists and other laboratory personnel.

Develops policies and standards for forensic human DNA analytical procedures, quality assurance, employee proficiency testing, and training.

Manages quality assurance and safety practices necessary for compliance with FBI, accreditation, and legislative requirements.

Provides technical advice and guidance to division personnel to ensure quality of work and effectiveness of results.

Interprets and directs the adherence to technical policies, procedures, and standards.

Supervises participation by Pennsylvania’s DNA laboratories in the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).

Oversees the configuration, maintenance, upgrade, and administration of CODIS within the department’s DNA laboratory operations.

Manages the testing, validation, and approval of new DNA equipment, technologies, and procedures prior to their implementation.

Participates in special studies to improve or develop DNA analytical methods and techniques and to achieve optimum utilization of available resources.

Develops, coordinates, and directs the conduct of entrant-level and in- service training programs for division personnel.

Administers employee proficiency testing for the forensic DNA discipline by assigning tests, evaluating and validating results, taking corrective action, and coordinating actions with the Quality Management Division.

Participates in developing and conducting training programs for municipal law enforcement, medical, and legal community personnel in the proper collection and handling of DNA evidence.

Prepares correspondence and reports to exchange information with department personnel, law enforcement agencies, and legal authorities.

Performs the full range of supervisory functions.

The employee in this job may participate in the performance of subordinates’ work consistent with operational or organizational requirements.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and practices of quantitative and qualitative biochemical and chemical analysis.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and statistics as applied to forensic DNA analysis.

Knowledge of the methods and techniques used in the analysis of DNA evidence.

Knowledge of equipment and materials used in a forensic DNA laboratory.

Knowledge of current developments and resources available in forensic DNA analysis.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of quality assurance related to forensic DNA laboratories.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of laboratory safety.

Knowledge of the procedures associated with maintaining evidence chain of custody.

Knowledge of the procedures associated with testifying in a court of law.

Knowledge of the principles of scientific report writing.

Ability to perform complex calculations to make comparative assessments and yield final results.

Ability to read and interpret written technical material.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to effectively communicate orally.

Ability to effectively communicate in writing.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Five years of professional laboratory work experience in the chemical and biological analysis of forensic human DNA evidence.