This position is eligible for a Tiered Sign-On Bonus up to $5,000.

What You'll Be Doing

Join the Bureau of Forensic Services as a Firearms Examiner with the Wake County Laboratory Division. We're seeking a highly skilled professional to bring their expertise to our team and make a crucial impact in forensic investigations.

This position is responsible for the following duties:

• Performs analysis and evaluation of firearm related evidence utilizing standardized and industry accepted techniques to classify, compare and identify a variety of ammunition components, firearms and similarly related evidence
• Conducts scientific tests of firearm evidence utilizing chemical and microscopic techniques and instrumentation which may include comparison microscopes, forensic photography and computer networks linked to federal, state and local databases
• Documents findings
• Prepares technical written reports of laboratory examinations
• Communicates directly with law enforcement, attorneys and various agencies regarding results found
• Preserves evidence in order to provide expert court testimony as to findings
• Maintains records and files
• Stores evidence
• Keeps up to date with scientific advancements in forensic fields by attending conferences, reading technical journals, seminars and training sessions

NOTE: A criminal background and credit check will be conducted.

About Our Team

The Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services was established by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1937 to provide for the better enforcement of the criminal laws in Wake County. The Bureau is a multidisciplinary forensic agency that provides forensic services for criminal investigations having original jurisdiction within Wake County. The Bureau is currently comprised of three divisions: the Identification Division, the Crime Scene Science Division, and the Laboratory Sciences Division. The Identification Division fingerprints and photographs all persons arrested in Wake County in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes and provides civil fingerprinting services to the public for a fee. The Crime Scene Science Division provides crime scene services to law enforcement agencies conducting criminal investigations. The Laboratory Division analyzes latent prints, firearms and ammunition components, controlled substances, blood samples seized from DWI drivers and computing devices and media. The Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services has been an ISO 17025 accredited agency since 2013. Please see our website at wake.gov/bureau

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in Physical, Natural or Forensic Science, Criminal Justice or related field
• No specific experience required
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
• AFTE Firearm Evidence Examination and Identification Certification required within two years of eligibility
• Maintain AFTE certification
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted

• Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Master's degree in a Physical, Natural or Forensic Science
• Current Membership in the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE)
• Employment experience utilizing BrassTrax and MatchPoint systems
• Employment experience in the analysis, identification and comparison of firearm related evidence
• Employment experience with an ISO accredited laboratory

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

• Knowledge of operations and safe handling of firearms and ammunition
• Knowledge of makes, models and characteristics of domestic and foreign firearms and ammunition
• Knowledge of the equipment used to test and identify firearms and ammunition
• Knowledge of current practices and principles of forensic firearm examinations
• Knowledge of federal, state, and municipal laws governing firearms
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques used to examine firearms and ammunition
• Knowledge of ISO quality standards for testing and calibration laboratories
• Knowledge of the rules, procedures and laws for evidence handling
• Skilled in the care and operation of laboratory equipment used in forensic firearm examinations
• Skilled in handling firearms and ammunition
• Skilled in providing expert testimony in forensic firearm examinations
• Ability to conduct precise and accurate microscopic comparison examinations
• Ability to safely fire a variety of firearms
• Ability to disassemble firearms and restore to original condition
• Ability to form accurate scientific conclusions
• Ability to prepare and maintain precise records and reports
• Ability to conduct searches in firearm databases
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and associates

About This Position

Location: Wake County Detention Raleigh, NC 27610

Employment Type: Regular

Work Schedule: 8:30-5:00

Hiring Range: 27.52 - 37.16

Market Range: 27.52 - 46.79

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Posting Closing Date: This position is open until filled and may close at any time.

What Makes Wake Great

Home to the State Capital, Wake County is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation and the most populous county in the state, with more than 1.1 million residents. The County has received national and international rankings and accolades from publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time magazines as being one of the best places to live, work and play. The central location of the County allows for a short drive to the spectacular mountains or coast. Wake County Government is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners, who are elected at-large to serve two-year terms. Wake County Government has a general operating budget of $1.874 billion, employs over 4400 employees, experiences minimal turnover, and is an award-winning leader in wellness and technology initiatives; such as offering employees and covered spouses free access to the Employee Health Center. Wake County Government offers a wide range of training and development opportunities, a stable career in public service with a balance of work and family life, flexible work schedules and a competitive salary and benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Background Check Statement

Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Emergency Service Worker Statement

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.

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• Wake County Government

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