01/28/2011 72066

FORENSIC LABORATORY MANAGER

DEFINITION: This is managerial and advanced professional work in directing the operation of a Pennsylvania State Police forensic laboratory.

An employee in this job serves as a regional laboratory manager for the chemical, physical and biological analysis and comparison of evidence gathered and submitted by law enforcement authorities. Work includes organizing, coordinating, and managing laboratory activities associated with forensic disciplines such as drug identification, serological examinations, blood alcohol analysis, and trace evidence analysis. Work involves coordinating laboratory services with various law enforcement authorities, directing the application of multiple forensic disciplines, and monitoring compliance with quality assurance, accreditation, and legal requirements. Work also involves administrative management of the laboratory to include personnel selection, training, budget preparation and administration, directing the requisition of supplies and equipment, and asset maintenance. Work is performed independently and is reviewed by an administrative supervisor through reports and conferences for effectiveness of results achieved and adherence to departmental policies and accreditation requirements.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Plans, organizes, and manages the work of Forensic Scientist Supervisors and other laboratory personnel.

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

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

Monitors quality assurance and safety practices for compliance with laboratory and accreditation requirements.

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

Determines laboratory operational needs, prepares budget recommendations, directs the preparation of requisition requests, and ensures maintenance of facilities, vehicles, and scientific equipment.

Directs laboratory compliance with established chain of custody procedures for the receipt, storage, handling, and return of evidence.

Observes and evaluates courtroom testimony provided by laboratory personnel.

Identifies deficiencies in processes or employee performance, develops and implements resolutions, and completes corrective action reports.

Plans and directs the conduct of training programs to develop the work skills and knowledge of laboratory personnel.

Develops and conducts or directs the conduct of training programs for municipal law enforcement, medical, and legal community personnel in the proper collection and handling of evidence.

Prepares correspondence, reports, and memoranda to exchange information with laboratory personnel, superiors, and law enforcement and legal authorities.

Travels to and from courts of law.

Performs the full range of supervisory functions.

Employees in this job may participate in the performance of their 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 methods and techniques used in the analysis and comparison of chemical, physical, and biological evidence.

Knowledge of biochemical, chemical and physical laboratory equipment and materials.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of quality assurance.

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.

Ability to prepare scientifically accurate and thorough reports of analysis and findings.

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 in the chemical, physical or biological analysis and comparison of criminal evidence and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science or a closely related physical or natural science.