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FBI LABORATORY POSITIONS
AMMUNITION SPECIALIST
Firearms/Toolmarks Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-9, with promotional potential to a GS-11.
WORK CONDITIONS
- Work is primarily sedentary. Some work may require lifting, standing, and bending.
- Work is performed in a firearms, toolmarks, and number restoration laboratory.
- Work requires daily routine exposure to live ammunition and components of all types while managing the Standard Ammunition File (SAF).
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing.
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays.
- Must travel as required.
DUTIES
- Performs analytical, management, and program assignments involving the SAF, the associated database, and purchase of ammunition for reference and test firing purposes.
- Ensures SAF collection is kept up-to-date and maintained in an efficient manner.
- Prepares specimens for inclusion in the SAF and ensures specimens are entered in the database
- Reviews ammunition literature.
- Maintains liaison with ammunition distributors and retailers.
- Conducts basic research and analysis to locate new ammunition.
- Establishes budget requirements, maintains blanket purchase agreements, and maintains inventory.
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-9: Knowledge of ammunition and its components; basic knowledge and skill in research methods and analytical techniques, and a practical understanding of FBI operations, organizational structure, policies, and procedures affective investigative and administrative matters. Must possess the ability to maintain effective relationships with co-workers, management staff, vendors, contractors, and other Laboratory personnel; and a thorough knowledge of the FBI’s procurement and supply system in order to effectively order and purchase ammunition, as well as maintain an inventory. Must also possess written and oral communication skills in order to prepare documentation and instructions .
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, develops
guidelines and methods for classifying and storing a wide variety
of ammunition; assists in the development of a digital image database
to allow for all ammunition to be searched and compared electronically;
develops procedures and systems for operating and assessing the effectiveness
of administrative control systems for the SAF; ensures adequate stock
of ammunition is maintained, marked, and properly stored; serves
as the expert regarding the wide variety of ammunition and its components;
and provides guidance to other examiners and other law enforcement
personnel.
EDUCATION
The quality of the combination of education and experience must have been sufficient to demonstrate that the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
GS-9: Applicants must have 2 years of progressively higher level graduate education or Masters Degree or equivalent degree.
GS 11: Applicants must have 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education or Doctorate Degree or equivalent degree.
In addition to the above basic requirements, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
BIOLIGIST
Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
Positions are from the GS-5 through GS-13 salary range. Salary level is based on prior education and prior work experience. The GS-5, GS-7, and GS-9 are entry-level trainee positions, whereas the GS-11 and above grade levels require a degree of PhD, as well as advanced/additional education and/or work experience.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is typically performed in a laboratory setting either independently or as a leader of a research team.
- The work is primarily sedentary, being conducted at the laboratory bench, desk, or at analytical instruments.
- The work performed requires special safety precautions and the research scientist will utilize protective safety glasses, laboratory clothing, and gloves.
DUTIES
- Serves as a member of a research team that performs research that results in novel or improved analytical procedures or interpretation of irreplaceable forensic biological evidence for use by federal, state, and local forensic laboratories.
- Maintain liaison with the wider scientific community through publications and participation in technical conferences.
Participate in instruction of state, local and federal crime laboratory personnel in forensic methods.
REQUIREMENTS
- Successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s (or high) degree in biological science, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related discipline appropriate to the position, or a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as listed above, plus appropriate experience or additional experience. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirement if it is shown the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
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GS-5: Professional knowledge of the biological principles, theories, and practices as would typically be acquired through a bachelor’s degree program in the biological sciences or related fields sufficient to perform trainee level duties.
- GS-7: In addition to the above duties and requirements, performs routine and limited biological analyses in forensic research; participate in specialized and fundamental research projects; completes assignments of moderate difficulty and complexity; performs analyses and tests; performs routine calculations; makes recommendations to the team leader; and is responsible for the accuracy and completion of test data. Must possess professional knowledge of biological principles, theories, and practices, and a practical knowledge of the processes and operations of forensic laboratories.
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a member of a research team; serves as a support biologist; conducts varying degrees of laboratory and literature research; performs limited range of tests and analyses on biological specimens; implements new testing and analytical methods; performs analyses or tests as identified by the team leader; writes reports; maintains liaison with the scientific community; participates in conferences; and prepares training aids.
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, conducts
specialized and/or fundamental research assignments; performs full
range of biological and/or DNA analyses and tests on biological specimens;
primarily handles very difficult or unusual analytical requests; develops
protocols and accompanying explanatory materials for routine techniques;
and evaluates possible use of new instrumentation. Must possess professional
knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology and biochemistry
to perform a full range of duties; professional knowledge of principles
and skill in operating laboratory instruments; practical understanding
of the processes and operations of various forensic laboratories;
and a good working knowledge of laboratory safety procedures.
- GS 12: In addition to the above duties and requirements, plans and conducts research; develops methods and procedures to plan and carry out assignments; evaluate analytical methods currently used to determine deficiencies and needed improvements; test new products and procedures; may develop or contribute to published scientific papers or articles; calibrates and maintains sophisticated laboratory instrumentation; serves as a consultant to other scientists; and assists in training examiners and crime laboratory scientists from outside the FBI. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology, biochemistry, and the DNA analytical methodology in order to analyze complex materials. Must also possess an advanced degree in biology or related science or have extensive work experience; professional knowledge and skill in operating complex laboratory equipment; and skill in communicating complex concepts and highly technical data. Must have satisfactorily served in the GS-11 position for one year.
- GS 13: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a senior technical expert, consultant, and research assistant; plans and conducts research and experiments to facilitate the development of enhanced examination procedures; identifies specific problems or areas that need improvement in forensic biology; conduct extensive literature research; develop protocols; presents research findings at scientific meetings; prepares manuscripts; consults with scientists and serves as a technical expert for purposes of communicating the capabilities of specialized instrumentation; plans and determines the instrumentation and equipment needs of the laboratory; ensures instrumentation is upgraded by the manufacturer; and assists in training. Must be able to evaluate complex laboratory instrumentation for use in forensic biological/DNA analysis; professional knowledge in the use of computers and have a good working knowledge of laboratory safety and quality control and quality assurance practices. Must have satisfactorily served in the GS-12 position for one year.
EDUCATION
All applicants must either (A) successfully complete successfully complete of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor (or higher) degree in biological science, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related discipline appropriate to the position or (B) a combination of education and experience equivalent to one of the majors shown in (A) above plus appropriate experience or additional education.
The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities requires to perform work in the occupation.
In addition to the basic educational requirements, all GS-9 applicants must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-7 level. Specialized experience is defined as work in biology performed in a laboratory setting.
In addition to the basic educational requirement, all GS-11 applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 level. Specialized experience is work in biology performed in a laboratory setting, which includes conduct specialized and fundamental research.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
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GS-9: Must have two years of progressively higher level graduate education, or masters or equivalent graduate degree in biological science, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related discipline appropriate to the position.
- GS-11: Must have three full years of progressively higher level graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
BIOLOGIST
Chem-Bio Sciences Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to chemicals and biohazardous materials.
- Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds, finger dexterity and body agility.
- Must be willing to work irregular, odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays.
- Must successfully complete training.
- Must wear protective clothing.
DUTIES
- Performs work as a trainee analyzing body fluids and/or other human tissues.
- Provides assistance to Forensic Examiners in handling and analysis of physical evidence.
- Prepares solutions, buffers, and reagents used in body fluid and human tissue identification techniques.
- Maintains a manual of quality control procedures.
- Prepares detailed documentation.
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology; knowledge of common methods and procedures and a skill in calibrating and operating analytical instruments; skill in making minor adaptations to analytical methods to solve problems; knowledge of quality control measures; knowledge of the use of computers and the ability to extract meaningful data.
- GS-9: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices
of biology and of the established protocols; skill in modifying analytical
methods to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues; skill
in evaluating and interpreting problems associated with the biological
and biochemical techniques; skill in standard laboratory practices;
basic knowledge of quality control measures; knowledge of the use of
computers and the ability to extract meaningful data.
- GS-11: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology and biochemistry; skill in modifying analytical methods to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues; skill in evaluating and interpreting problems associated with the techniques used; knowledge of related sciences; knowledge of quality control measures in order to properly conduct examinations of evidentiary materials; skill in organization of documentation; skill in calibrating and operating analytical instruments; knowledge of the use of computers and the ability to extract meaningful data.
- GS-12: Thorough knowledge of related sciences such as biochemistry, chemistry, and molecular biology; skill in developing and modifying analytical methods in order to problems to respond to complex technical issues; skill in calibrating and operating analytical methods in order to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues; skill in calibrating and operating analytical instruments; skill in applying analytical methodology to examinations of materials when such applications are not covered in the scientific literature; knowledge of quality control measures in order to properly conduct examinations of evidentiary materials; exceptional skill in organization of documentation.
BIOLOGIST
DNA Analysis Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to chemicals and biohazardous materials.
- Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds, finger dexterity and body agility.
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays.
- Must successfully complete training
Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Performs work analyzing body fluids and/or other human tissues.
- Provides assistance to Forensic Examiners in handling and analysis of physical evidence.
- Prepares solutions, buffers, and reagents used in body fluid and human tissue identification techniques.
- Maintains a manual of quality control procedures.
- Prepares detailed documentation.
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology; knowledge of common methods and procedures and a skill in calibrating and operating analytical instruments; skill in making minor adaptations to analytical methods to solve problems; knowledge of quality control measures; knowledge of the use of computers and the to extract meaningful data.
- GS-9: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology and of the established protocols; skill in modifying analytical methods to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues; skill in evaluating and interpreting problems associated with the biological and biochemical techniques; skill in standard laboratory practices; basic knowledge of quality control measures; knowledge of the use of computers and the ability to extract meaningful data.
- GS-11: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology and biochemistry; skill in modifying analytical methods to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues; skill in evaluating and interpreting problems associated with the techniques used; knowledge of related sciences; knowledge of quality control measures in order to properly conduct examinations of evidentiary materials; skill in organization of documentation; skill in calibrating and operating analytical instruments; knowledge of the use of and the ability to extract meaningful data.
- GS-12: Thorough knowledge of related sciences such as biochemistry, chemistry, and molecular biology; skill in developing and modifying analytical methods in order to solve problems to respond to complex technical issues; skill in calibrating and operating analytical methods in order to solve problems or respond to complex technical issues; skill in calibrating and operating analytical instruments; skill in applying analytical methodology to examinations of materials when such applications are not covered in the scientific literature; knowledge of quality control measures in order to properly conduct examinations of evidentiary materials; exceptional skill in organization of documentation.
All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Education may be substituted for experience as outlined below:
- For GS-7, applicants must have one full year of graduate-level education or superior achievement. For GS-9, applicants must have two years of progressively higher level graduate education or masters degree or equivalent degree in one of the disciplines listed in (A) above.
- Specialized experience is professional work in forensic serology, biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology performed in a laboratory setting, which includes the successful analysis of a range of DNA samples.
- Education complete in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited education institution in the United States.
EDUCATION
All applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a four-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors (or higher) degree in a biological
science, chemistry, or forensic science area or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major, as shown a (A) above, plus appropriate
experience or additional education.
The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate
the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation.
In addition to meeting the basic qualification requirements, applicants must have experience
and/or directly related education as listed below:
For GS-7, applicants must have one full year of graduate-level education or superior achievement. For GS-9, applicants must have two years of progressively higher level graduate education or masters degree or equivalent degree in one of the disciplines listed in (A) above.
Specialized experience is professional work in forensic serology, biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology performed in a laboratory setting, which includes the successful analysis of a range of DNA samples.
Education complete in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited education institution in the United States.
BIOLOGIST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Chem-Bio Sciences
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-14.
Working Conditions
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and occasional strenuous physical exertion, which may require lifting objects of up to 50 pounds
- Work involves inventorying and processing evidence, which requires walking, bending stretching, crawling, and lifting
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
- Must travel as required
- Must present court testimony as required
Duties
- Must sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time needed to complete training
- Provide support and assistance to senior forensic examiners
- Perform examinations in DNA and identification of body fluid stains
- Provide routine, limited analyses on body fluids and other substances
- Tabulates data from instruments and provides results to examiners
- Receives and delivers evidence to and from other Laboratory components
- Prepares samples for analysis
- Assembles pertinent materials for file or presentation in court
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Serves as a Forensic Examiner trainee. Performs a variety of observations, measurements, computations, compilations, and analyses in routine assignments, which provide support and assistance to senior examiners. Assignments are of moderate difficulty and complexity, and include examinations of blood, hair, bones, teeth, DNA, and the identification of body fluid stains from evidentiary material; prepares specimens for DNA examination; operates instruments; reduces and tabulates data from instruments and provides results to examiners; writes laboratory notes; receives and delivers to and from other laboratory components; receives training in processing and examining evidence; receives and inventories evidence; and assembles pertinent material for files and/or presentation in court.
- GS-9: Serves as a Forensic Examiner responsible for assisting in planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities, to include expert examinations, reporting of results, and testimony in the field of forensic biology; work assignments are of moderate difficulty and complexity; prepare specimens for DNA examination; examinations include DNA and the identification of body fluid stains from evidentiary material; conducts tests using classical DNA methodology; evaluates all test results for validity and overall reasonableness; receives training at the advanced level; responds to routine inquiries pertaining to examinations; provides court testimony; assists in training new employees; and travels as required. Must possess full professional knowledge of biological principles, theories, practices and studies in related scientific disciplines; practical knowledge in the operation of analytical instruments; knowledge of general procedures used to process crime scenes and collect evidence; knowledge of Unit’s training functions; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; and in applying established methods and procedures to specific cases.
- GS-11: Serves as a Forensic Examiner responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities, to include testimony in the field of forensic biology; receive evidence from FBI and other law enforcement agencies; contacts contributors to resolve problems or questions; performs analyses utilizing full range of analytical methods; prepares and provides oral and written reports to field investigators, U.S. Attorneys, state and local law enforcement officials and prosecutors; provide necessary testimony; develops analytical procedures in specific areas of need; serves on a team of examiners in crime scene investigations; provides training; assists in research projects; and travels as required. Must possess professional knowledge of biological principles; thorough knowledge of rules of evidence and legal procedures; thorough knowledge of safety and quality control procedures.
- GS-12: Perform various tests resulting in the analysis of DNA; tests new products and analytical procedures and make recommendations; performs experimental procedures; provides oral and written reports to investigators and law enforcement personnel; provides testimony; possess substantial knowledge of all types of forensic examinations; oversees distribution of evidence; serves as an authoritative consultant to FBI; teaches examination techniques; travels as required; and conducts research projects. Must possess professional knowledge of principles of biology; working knowledge of forensic sciences; skill in oral and written communications; comprehensive knowledge of the rules of evidence and legal procedures; knowledge of crime scene processing; broad knowledge of Laboratory Division policies and procedures; comprehensive knowledge of safety and quality control/quality assurance practices; and ability to use micro-computers.
- GS-13: Performs all facets of highly complex case preparations; possess extensive experience in a broad range of examination techniques; acts as a point of contact for other law enforcement agencies; provides oral and written reports to federal, state, and local law enforcement entities; provides court testimony; ensures instrumentation is upgraded to remain state-of-the-art; provides accurate technical information pertaining to submitted items of evidence; serves as a member of a team of examiners in major case crime scene investigations; oversees distribution of evidence to various examiners; oversees subordinate technicians; teaches exam techniques; directs and coordinates research efforts; conducts extensive liaison with private sector and other federal laboratories; and travels as required. Must have a professional knowledge of scientific techniques and procedures in the examination and analysis of evidence; thorough knowledge of related sciences; thorough knowledge of the instruments and equipment utilized during exams of evidence; thorough knowledge of rules of evidence and legal procedures; skill in oral and written communications; exhibit a high level of independent problem solving skills; thorough knowledge of crime scene procedures; and provides training as required.
- GS-14: Serves as a Master Forensic Examiner; performs expert examinations; provides testimony; directs research activities; responsible for training and certification of in the field; examines evidence; performs comprehensive and authoritative analyses of evidence; assigns work to employees; provides oral and written reports to investigators, prosecutors, and other law enforcement personnel; oversees distribution of evidence; serves as an authoritative consultant to FBI and other agencies; reviews examination results of subordinates; coordinates research efforts and presents findings; conducts extensive liaison; and travels as required. Must have mastery of scientific techniques and procedures in biology field; mastery of rules of evidence and legal procedures; skill in oral and written communications; extensive knowledge of classes of evidence; thorough knowledge of safety and quality control/quality assurance practices and extensive knowledge of crime scene procedures and policies.
BIOLOGIST FORENSIC EXAMINER
DNA Analysis Unit 1
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-14.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and occasional strenuous physical exertion which may require lifting objects of up to 50 pounds
- Work involves inventorying and processing evidence, which requires walking, bending, stretching, crawling, and lifting
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
- Must travel as required
- Must present court testimony as required
DUTIES
- Must successfully complete training and sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time needed to complete training
- Provide support and assistance to senior forensic examiners
- Perform examinations in DNA and identification of body fluid stains
- Provide routine, limited analyses on body fluids and other substances
- Tabulate data from instruments and provides results to examiners
- Receive and deliver evidence to and from other Laboratory components
- Prepare samples for analysis
- Assemble pertinent materials for file or presentation in court
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Serves as a Forensic Examiner trainee. Performs a variety of observations, measurements, computations, compilations, and analyses in routine assignments, which provide support and assistance to senior examiners. Assignments are of moderate difficulty and complexity, and include examinations of blood, hair, bones, teeth, DNA, and the identification of body fluid stains from evidentiary material; prepares specimens for DNA examination; operates instruments; reduces and tabulates data from instruments and provides results to examiners; writes laboratory notes; receives and delivers evidence to and from other laboratory components; receives training in processing and evidence; receives and inventories evidence; and assembles pertinent material for files and/or presentation in court.
- GS-9: Serves as a Forensic Examiner responsible for assisting in planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities, to include expert examinations, reporting of results, and testimony in the field of forensic biology; work assignments are of moderate difficulty and complexity; prepares specimens for DNA examination; examinations include DNA and the identification of body fluid stains from evidentiary material; conducts tests using classical DNA methodology; evaluates all test results for validity and overall reasonableness; receives training at the advanced level; responds to routine inquiries pertaining to examinations; provides court testimony; assists in training new employees; and travels as required. Must possess full professional knowledge of biological principles, theories, practices and studies in related scientific disciplines; practical knowledge in the operation of analytical instruments; knowledge of general procedures used to process crime scenes and collect evidence; knowledge of unit’s training functions; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; and ability to apply established methods and procedures to specific cases.
- GS-11: Serves as a Forensic Examiner responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities, to include testimony in the field of forensic biology; receives evidence from FBI and other law enforcement agencies; contacts contributors to resolve problems or questions; performs analyses utilizing full range of analytical methods; prepares and provides oral and written reports to field investigators, U.S. Attorneys, state and local law enforcement officials and prosecutors; provides necessary testimony; develops analytical procedures in specific areas of need; serves on a team of examiners in crime scene investigations; provides training; assists in research projects; and travels as required. Must possess professional knowledge of biological principles; skill in oral and written communications; thorough knowledge of unit’s training functions; thorough knowledge of rules of evidence and legal procedures; and knowledge of safety and quality control procedures.
- GS-12: Performs various tests resulting in the analysis of DNA; tests new products and analytical procedures and make recommendations; performs experimental procedures; provides oral and written reports to investigators and law enforcement personnel; provides testimony; possess substantial knowledge of all types of forensic examinations; oversees distribution of evidence; serves as an authoritative consultant to FBI; teaches examination techniques; travels as required; and conducts research projects. Must possess professional knowledge of principles of biology; working knowledge of forensic sciences; skill in oral and written communications; comprehensive knowledge of the rules of evidence and legal procedures; knowledge of crime scene processing; broad knowledge of Laboratory Division policies and procedures; comprehensive knowledge of safety and quality control/quality assurance practices; and ability to use micro-computers.
- GS-13: Performs all facets of highly complex case preparations; possess extensive experience in a broad range of examination techniques; acts as a point of contact for other law enforcement agencies; provides oral and written reports to federal, state, and local law enforcement entities; provides court testimony; ensures instrumentation is upgraded to remain state-of-the-art; provides accurate technical information pertaining to submitted items of evidence; serves as a member of a team of examiners in major case crime scene investigations; oversees distribution of evidence to various examiners; oversees subordinate technicians; teaches exam techniques; directs and coordinates research efforts; conducts extensive liaison with private sector and other federal laboratories; and travels as required.
- Must have a professional knowledge of scientific techniques and procedures in the examination and analysis of evidence; thorough knowledge of related sciences; thorough knowledge of the instruments and equipment utilized during exams of evidence; thorough knowledge of rules of evidence and legal procedures; skill in oral and written communications; exhibit a high level of independent problem solving skills; thorough knowledge of crime scene procedures; and provide training as required.
- GS-14: Serves as a Master Forensic Examiner; performs expert examinations; provides testimony; directs research activities; responsible for training and certification of examiners in the field; examines evidence; performs comprehensive and authoritative biological analyses of evidence; assigns work to employees; provides oral and written reports to investigators, prosecutors, and other law enforcement personnel; oversees distribution of evidence; serves as an authoritative consultant to FBI and other agencies; reviews examination results of subordinates; coordinates research efforts and presents findings; conducts extensive liaison; and travels as required. Must have mastery of scientific techniques and procedures in biology field; mastery of rules of evidence and legal procedures; skill in oral and written communications; extensive knowledge of classes of evidence; thorough knowledge of safety and quality control/quality assurance practices; and extensive knowledge of crime scene procedures and policies.
EDUCATION
All applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a four-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree (or higher) in biology, chemistry, or forensic science related area and must have successfully completed college
course work (graduate or undergraduate level) covering the subject of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology (molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology) or
other subjects which provide a basic understanding of the foundation of forensic DNA analysis, as well as course work and/or training in statistics and population genetics as it applies to forensic DNA analysis, in accordance with FBI Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major, as shown in (A) above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. Applicants must provide copies of transcripts to verify possession
of education requirement.
The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in this occupation.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements, if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited education institution in the United States.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience at the GS-11 only as outlined below:
- GS-11: Applicants must have 3 years of progressively higher level graduate
education or doctorate degree or equivalent degree in one of the disciplines
mentioned in (A) above.
All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
Specialized experience is defined as professional work in biochemistry, genetics, and
molecular biology performed in a laboratory setting, which includes the successful analysis
of a range of biological samples of a range of DNA samples.
BIOLOGIST DNA PROGRAM SPECIALIST
DNA Analysis Unit 1
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work requires inspections of Unit laboratories, which exposes employee to chemicals, carcinogens, fumes, potentially infectious materials, and materials of unknown hazard
- Must have knowledge of chemical hygiene and bloodborne pathogen safety procedures and safety precautions
- Must complete training
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Performs quality assurance functions
- Performs and assists with casework responsibilities
- Ensures compliance with Division, national, and international quality assurance and quality control guidelines
- Assists in compiling, maintaining, and recording quality control data
- Assists in the preparation, evaluation, and checking of laboratory chemicals
- Assists in handling, storing, checking-in, and moving evidence
- Maintains Unit equipment
- Prepares purchase requests
- Assists in management and distribution of proficiency tests
- Maintains liaison with vendors
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
GS-7: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology and the DNA/serological analytical methodology to receive training and conduct quality reviews; basic knowledge of Division and Unit quality assurance and quality control policies; general knowledge of applying DNA accreditation requirements and guidelines to Unit operations; practical knowledge of audit techniques and procedures to assist in conducting audits; knowledge of Unit evidence management practices; and oral and written communication skills.
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, performs a variety of moderately complex duties involving casework responsibilities; assists in review of DNA and/or serology quality assurance standards; provides input to development of guidelines; performs calculations to ensure compliance with quality assurance requirements; handles evidence; and conducts performance checks on instrumentation. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of biology and the DNA/serological analytical methodology to conduct basic to moderately complex reviews; and practical knowledge of audit techniques to assist in organizing and conducting audits.
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, independently compiles and maintains quality assurance/quality control data; provides written response to observations made during audits; maintains Unit equipment; provides input into development of new guidelines and quality assurance standards; assists in initiating security clearances for vendors; and assists in scheduling contract work. Must conduct detailed audit reviews; have extensive skill in interpreting and applying various DNA accreditation requirements; thorough knowledge of audit techniques; and skill in organizing, and tracking quality assurance data.
- GS-12: In addition to the above duties and requirements, reviews Unit standard operating procedures; evaluates product specifications prior to preparing purchase requests; provides extensive support to Quality Assurance Program; and ensures Unit compliance with National DNA database standards. Must analyze and resolve complex and sensitive quality assurance problems; possess thorough knowledge of audit techniques and procedures; extensive knowledge of evidence management practices; knowledge of division security practices and procedures to ensure quality assurance and quality control functions are completed; and possess thorough oral and written communication skills necessary to complete assignments and tasks.
- GS-13: In addition to the above duties and requirements, performs extensive duties involving unit casework responsibilities; work requires the application of professional knowledge in biological science and DNA analysis; serves as a recognized expert in quality assurance/quality control relating to DNA and serological analysis of evidence; provides quality assurance instruction; furnishes expert advice and guidance to forensic DNA testing laboratories; resolves complex problems relating to audits; oversees and conducts performance checks on instrumentation; and maintains Unit equipment.
EDUCATION
All applicants must either (A) successfully complete of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor (or higher) degree in biological sciences,
agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or forensic science or (B) a combination of experience and education, which includes course work equivalent to a major shown in (A) above and have appropriate experience or additional education which demonstrates similarly appropriate skills or abilities needed to perform the duties of the position.
In addition to the above, applicants must have:
- GS-12: One year of specialized experience related to the work of the position and equivalent to the GS-11 level in the federal service. Specialized experience is professional
work in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology or quality assurance performed in a forensic laboratory setting, which includes planning, coordinating, and/or directing forensic science activities.
- GS-13: One year of specialized experience related to the work of the position and equivalent
to the GS-12 level in the federal service. Specialized experience is professional work in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology and/or quality assurance performed in a forensic laboratory setting, which includes planning, coordinating, and/or directing forensic science activities.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
CHEMIST
Chem-Bio Sciences Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and considerable, strenuous physical exertion
- Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds
- Work requires walking, stretching, crawling, bending, and lifting
- Must be able to use tools and heavy machinery with proficiency
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Processes items of evidence
- Inventories evidence
- Provides routine support and receives training in research studies
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment; knowledge of examination techniques; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of Laboratory safety practices; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-9: Serves as a technical specialist; receives, delivers, and inventories evidence; may assist in crime scene processing; may provide basic instruction to lower grade employees; responds to telephone calls; performs routine to moderately complex technical examinations, and assists senior personnel in research studies. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment, instrumentation, and tools; knowledge of examination techniques; knowledge of Laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communication; knowledge of Laboratory safety procedures; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-11: Serves as a technical specialist; provides assistance to Forensic Examiners in the examination of evidence; performs difficult technical examinations; manages a large number of cases; receives and delivers evidence; assigned special projects; may participate with senior personnel in research studies; provides instruction, training, and guidance to other scientific personnel; receives and responds to telephone calls from outside agencies; and assists supervisor in crime scene processing. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of a specialized forensic discipline; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of Laboratory safety procedures; and must be willing to travel as necessary.
- GS-12: Serves as a senior technical specialist; performs very complex technical examinations; evaluates methods and techniques currently used to determine deficiencies; tests new products; may draft manual changes, training manuals or scientific papers for publication; manages a large number of cases; receives, delivers, and inventories evidence; is assigned special projects; may conduct studies and/or research; provides instruction; receives and responds to telephone calls; and assists supervisor in crime scene processing. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; thorough knowledge of a specialized forensic science discipline; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of Laboratory safety procedures; and must be willing to travel as necessary.
EDUCATION
Applicants must meet either (A) the successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that includes 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate
the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful
completion of a full 4-year course of study with a major study in the appropriate field. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Applicants must also have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or masters, or equivalent graduate degree in one of the above disciplines or a bachelors degree.
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices and (3) experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
CHEMIST
Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-9, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work may involve regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity and flexibility
- Work may require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, and carrying of heavy objects.
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Plans and conducts well-defined projects
- Performs support work for senior employees
- Performs conventional and standard analytical procedures
- Attend training classes relating to assigned functions
- Maintains scientific instruments, equipment, chemicals, and supplies
- Must travel to locations nationally and internationally, often with little or no advance notice
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-9: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of chemistry; basic knowledge of FBI scientific procedures, including quality control and safety procedures; basic knowledge of and skill in the use of analytical chemistry methods, procedures, and instruments; knowledge of hazardous materials and the required safety precautions for working in a hazardous materials environment; skill in oral and written communications; and knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures.
- GS-11: In addition to the above requirements, plan and conduct projects; conduct studies which require the application and adaptation of existing scientific methods; conduct basic research; provide scientific information to senior personnel; perform support work for projects under the direction of senior employees; and attend training.
Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of chemistry.
- GS-12: In addition to the above requirements, assist in significant projects; participate in development of new analytical procedures; serves as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative; performs critical support work for a major project; initiates and performs the full range of conventional and specialized analytical procedures and techniques; maintains liaison with research and development laboratories; attends conferences; and provides training in chemistry. Must possess a thorough knowledge in a specialized area of chemistry in order to analyze complex scientific issues.
- GS-13: In addition to the above requirements, serve as a senior expert and consultant in the use of complex scientific instruments, methods, and techniques; conduct research; present papers as appropriate; plan and conduct projects to provide authoritative chemical analysis and scientific information in critical matters effecting the FBI; establish new criteria in carrying out assignments; serves as a project leader; provides guidance, assignments, and reviews work of other employee; and perform a full range of conventional and specialized analytical procedures and techniques. Must possess expert knowledge in a specialized area of chemistry in order to analyze complex scientific issues, and have expert knowledge of and skill in use of analytical chemistry methods, procedures, and instruments.
EDUCATION
Education may be substituted for education as follows:
- GS-9: Two full years of progressively higher level graduate education or masters or equivalent doctoral degree in a related field
- GS-11: Three full years of progressively higher level graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a related field
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
- All applicants must meet either (A) a degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that includes 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience/course work equivalent to a major shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester
hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of a full 4-year course of study with a major study in the appropriate field.
- In addition to the above basic requirements, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices, and experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
CHEMIST
Chemistry Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and considerable, strenuous physical exertion
- Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds
- Work requires walking, stretching, crawling, bending, and lifting
- Must be able to use tools and heavy machinery with proficiency
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Processes and inventories items of evidence
- Provides routine support and receives training in research studies
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; know ledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment; knowledge of examination techniques; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of laboratory safety practices; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-9: Serves as a technical specialist; receives, delivers, and inventories evidence; assist in crime scene processing; may provide basic instruction to lower grade employees; responds to telephone calls; performs routine to moderately complex technical examinations, and assists senior personnel in research studies. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment, instrumentation, and tools; knowledge of examination techniques; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communication; knowledge of laboratory safety procedures; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-11: Serves as a technical specialist, providing assistance to Forensic Examiners in the examination of evidence; performs difficult technical examinations; manages a large number of cases; receives and delivers evidence; assigned special projects; may participate with senior personnel in research studies; provides instruction, training, and guidance to other scientific personnel; receives and responds to telephone calls from outside agencies; and assists supervisor in crime scene processing. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of a specialized forensic discipline; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of laboratory safety procedures; and must be willing to travel as necessary.
- GS-12: Serves as a senior technical specialist performing very complex technical examinations. Evaluates methods and techniques currently used to determine deficiencies; tests new products; may draft manual changes, training manuals or scientific papers for publication; manages a large number of cases; receives, delivers, and inventories evidence; is assigned special projects; may conduct studies and/or research; provides instruction; receives and responds to telephone calls; and assists supervisor in crime scene processing.
- Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; thorough knowledge of a specialized forensic science discipline; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of laboratory safety procedures; and must be willing to travel as necessary.
EDUCATION
Applicants must meet either
- (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 hours of physics or
- (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Applicants must also have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or masters, or equivalent graduate
degree in one of the above disciplines or a bachelors degree.
- The quality of the combination and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate that the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion
of a full 4-year course of study with a major study in the appropriate field.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received
in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods, including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices and, (3) experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
CHEMIST
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-9, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and considerable, strenuous physical exertion
- Work requires walking, stretching, crawling, bending, and lifting
- Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds
- Work may involve collection and processing of specimens in a hazardous materials environment
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required, often with little or no advanced notice
- Work is performed in offices, laboratories, non-laboratory off-sites, or at deployment sites
- Work performed outside an office can include the potential for exposure to hazardous materials, toxic chemicals, biological pathogens, and radiological substances
- Work requires certification in the use of personal protective equipment
DUTIES
- Plans and conducts well-defined projects to provide chemical analysis and scientific information to higher level employees
- Performs support work for projects under the purview of senior employees
- Performs conventional and standard analytical procedures and techniques in a fixed laboratory and/or in field deployments
- Must attend training
- Maintains scientific instruments
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-9: Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of chemistry; basic knowledge of FBI scientific procedures, including quality control and safety procedures; basic knowledge of and skill in analytical chemistry methods, procedures, and methods; knowledge of hazardous materials and required safety pre-cautions; skill in oral and written communications; and knowledge of FBI regulations, guidelines, and procedures, including security requirements and legal restrictions.
- GS-11: In addition to the duties and requirements listed above, will also plan and coordinate projects to provide chemical analysis and scientific information; may assist with more involved projects; perform support work for projects under the purview of senior employees; perform full range of conventional and standard procedures and techniques in fixed laboratory or field deployments; and attend training. May provide training to other personnel.
- GS-12: In addition to the duties and requirements listed above, serves as a specialist and advisor in carrying out complex assignments to support a chemistry related program; will recommend new criteria or modify methods in carrying out assignments; serve as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative; perform critical work for a major project; review work of other employees; and provide training.
- GS-13: In addition to the duties and requirements listed above, serves as a senior expert and develops methods, procedures, and/or policies in a chemistry related program to support FBI operations. Serves as an expert and consultant in the use of complex scientific instruments, methods, and techniques; establishes new criteria/extends existing methodology in carrying out assignments; prepares detailed reports; performs critical work for a major project; and provides guidance, assignments, and/or reviews work of other employees.
EDUCATION
Applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Applicants must also have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or masters, or equivalent graduate
degree in one of the above disciplines or a bachelors degree.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate
the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful
completion of a full 4-year course of study with a major in the appropriate field.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received
in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
- Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
CHEMIST
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-15, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed primarily in an office or laboratory setting
- Work may involve long periods of standing
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required, often with little or no advanced notice
DUTIES
- Serves as a senior scientist responsible for the area of biological and chemical Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) detection
- Serves as a recognized national expert in chemical and biological warfare agents
- Serves as the manager and senior technical expert for the Unit’s Science Operations Program
- Participates in the Laboratory Division’s (LD) involvement with external advisory groups
- Provides leadership and guidance to senior scientists and others throughout the world
- Provides and develops specialized training in chemical and biological warfare agents
- Evaluates and develops precedent setting analytical methods and procedures
- Conducts pioneering research and development projects
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- Must possess mastery knowledge in the field of chemical and biological WMD, including theoretical and operation knowledge, and provide expert advice; possess outstanding liaison skills; must have creditably interfaced with scientists in the forensic community, those in academia, and in public and private laboratories. Must possess a thorough knowledge of program management to effectively manage high level, critical, and multi- disciplinary applied scientific and technical operations.
EDUCATION
- Must possess a Ph.D
- Must have formerly conducted post-doctoral work or equivalent work, such as internship in biological and/or chemical sciences
- Must have at least five years of work experience in the field of WMD, with expert knowledge of chemical and biological WMD.
CHEMIST
Explosives Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and considerable, strenuous physical exertion
- Work requires lifting up to 50 pounds
- Work requires walking, stretching, crawling, bending, and lifting
- Must be able to use tools and heavy machinery with proficiency
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Performs work processing items of evidence
- Inventories evidence
- Provides routine support and receives training in research studies
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment; knowledge of examination techniques; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of laboratory safety practices; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-9: Serves as a technical specialist; receives, delivers, and inventories evidence; may assist in crime scene processing; may provide basic instruction to lower grade employees; responds to telephone calls; performs routine to moderately complex technical examinations, and assists senior personnel in research studies. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment, instrumentation, and tools; knowledge of examination techniques; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communication; knowledge of laboratory safety procedures; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-11: Serves as a technical specialist; provides assistance to Forensic Examiners in the examination of evidence; performs difficult technical examinations; manages a large number of cases; receives and delivers evidence; is assigned special projects; may participate with senior personnel in research studies; provides instruction, training, and guidance to other scientific personnel; receives and responds to telephone calls from outside agencies; and assist supervisor in crime scene processing. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of a specialized forensic discipline; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of Laboratory safety procedures; and must be willing to travel as necessary.
- GS-12: Serves as a senior technical specialist; performs very complex technical examinations; evaluates methods and techniques currently used to determine deficiencies; tests new products; may draft manual changes, training manuals or scientific papers for publication; manages a large number of cases; receives, delivers, and inventories evidence; is assigned special projects; may conduct studies and/or research; provides instruction; receives and responds to telephone calls; and assists supervisor in crime scene processing. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; thorough knowledge of a specialized forensic science discipline; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of Laboratory safety procedures; and must be willing to travel as necessary.
EDUCATION
Applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received
in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods, including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices and, (3) experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
CHEMIST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Chem-Bio Sciences Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-11, with promotional potential to a GS-14.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in offices, laboratories, classrooms, and at sites of investigations where there is potential for exposure to hazardous materials
- Work may involve long periods of standing, strenuous walking, stooping, bending, carrying of heavy instruments, and extended periods of work in mobile laboratories
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Must sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time needed to complete training
- Conducts a full range of analytic procedures
- Prepares complete laboratory reports
- Provides testimony
- Interprets findings of analyses conducted
- Ensures instruments are maintained in a state of readiness
- Maintains proficiency by attending training courses
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
REQUIREMENTS
- Must sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time needed to complete training
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-11: Must possess a professional knowledge of the principles, theories, and methods of chemistry in order to analyze complex materials; knowledge of the Laboratory’s case working procedures, including quality control and safety procedures; coordinate case work with other responsible units; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of legal procedures and rules of evidence; and knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures, including security requirements and legal restrictions, to carry out necessary administrative functions.
- GS-12: Serves as a Forensic Examiner responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities, to include expert examinations, reporting of results, and testimony in the field of forensic chemistry; conducts full range of analytic procedures in both fixed and field laboratory settings; prepares comprehensive laboratory reports; provides expert testimony; and provides training to FBI and non-FBI personnel. Must possess professional knowledge of the principles, theories, and methods of chemistry; thorough knowledge of caseworking procedures, including quality control and safety procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of legal procedures and rules of evidence; and knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures, including security requirements and legal restrictions.
- GS-13: Serves as a Senior Forensic Examiner; conducts examinations of highly complex and unique evidence; provides forensic analysis of evidence in cases involving multiple submissions; initiates and performs the full range of analytic procedures in both fixed and field laboratory settings; prepares and provides oral and written reports to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and field investigators; provides court testimony, and must travel as required. Must also possess professional, extensive knowledge of the principles, theories, and methods of chemistry; knowledge of quality control and safety procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of legal procedures and rules of evidence; and knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures, including security requirements and legal restrictions.
- GS-14: Serves as a Master Forensic Examiner and program/project manager over major scientific initiatives; manages critical programs and/or long-term projects; develops standard operating procedures; identifies the need to conduct research to enhance examination methods; may participate in Scientific Working Groups to develop guidelines and standards; performs examinations of evidence in the most complex cases; manages supplies; provides oral and written reports to investigators, prosecutors, and the law enforcement community; presents court testimony; provides technical guidance; may provide input regarding employee performance; teaches examination techniques to less experiences examiners; must travel.
- Must possess professional, expert knowledge of the principles, theories, and methods of chemistry; thorough knowledge of management techniques; extensive knowledge of the FBI Laboratory’s case working procedures, including quality control and safety procedures;
knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures, including security and legal requirements; mastery of rules of evidence and legal procedures involved in handling evidence; and extensive knowledge of crime scene procedures.
EDUCATION
Applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. The quality of the combination and experience
must be sufficient to demonstrate that the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of a full 4-year course of study with a major study in the appropriate field.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received
in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods, including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices and, (3) experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
CHEMIST
Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-9, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work may involve regular and recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity and flexibility
- Work may require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, and carrying of heavy objects.
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Plans and conducts well-defined projects
- Performs support work for senior employees
- Performs conventional and standard analytical procedures
- Attend training classes relating to assigned functions
- Maintains scientific instruments, equipment, chemicals, and supplies
- Must travel to locations nationally and internationally, often with little or no advance notice
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-9: Professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of chemistry; basic knowledge of FBI scientific procedures, including quality control and safety procedures; basic knowledge of and skill in the use of analytical chemistry methods, procedures, and instruments; knowledge of hazardous materials and the required safety precautions for working in a hazardous materials environment; skill in oral and written communications; and knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures.
- GS-11: In addition to the above requirements, plan and conduct projects; conduct studies which require the application and adaptation of existing scientific methods; conduct basic research; provide scientific information to senior personnel; perform support work for projects under the direction of senior employees; and attend training. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of chemistry.
- GS-12: In addition to the above requirements, assist in significant projects; participate in development of new analytical procedures; serves as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative; performs critical support work for a major project; initiates and performs the full range of conventional and specialized analytical procedures and techniques; maintains liaison with research and development laboratories; attends conferences; and provides training in chemistry. Must possess a thorough knowledge in a specialized area of chemistry in order to analyze complex scientific issues.
- GS-13: In addition to the above requirements, serve as a senior expert and consultant in the use of complex scientific instruments, methods, and techniques; conduct research; present papers as appropriate; plan and conduct projects to provide authoritative chemical analysis and scientific information in critical matters effecting the FBI; establish new criteria in carrying out assignments; serves as a project leader; provides guidance, assignments, and reviews work of other employee; and perform a full range of conventional and specialized analytical procedures and techniques. Must possess expert knowledge in a specialized area of chemistry in order to analyze complex scientific issues, and have expert knowledge of and skill in use of analytical chemistry methods, procedures, and instruments.
EDUCATION
Education may be substituted for education as follows:
- GS-9: Two full years of progressively higher level graduate education or masters or equivalent doctoral degree in a related field
- GS-11: Three full years of progressively higher level graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a related field
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
- All applicants must meet either (A) a degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that includes 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience/course work equivalent to a major shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of a full 4-year course of study with a major study in the appropriate field. In addition to the above basic requirements, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices, and experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
CRYPTANALYST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Cryptanalysis & Racketeering Records Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers,
references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination
and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment. This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-14. While GS-7 and GS-9 are trainee and advanced trainee positions, GS-11 and above are full performance/expert Forensic Examiner (FE) positions. Preference will be given to those candidates possessing an advanced degree in one of the qualifying fields.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in a laboratory setting which may involve regular, recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and some strenuous physical exertion
- Work may involve walking, stretching, crawling, stooping, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Must sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time needed to complete training
- Deciphers cryptic notations into meaningful notations used to identify and interpret class and individual characteristics of racketeering records
- Provides support to senior forensic examiners
- Conducts forensic examinations of routine evidence
- Records examination findings
- Assembles pertinent material for presentation in court
- Receives training in processing and examining evidence
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Knowledge of the principles, theories, and methods of chemistry; a knowledge of the laboratory’s case working procedures, including quality control and safety procedures; skill in oral and written communications; a knowledge of legal procedures and rules of evidence; and a knowledge of Bureau regulations, guidelines, and procedures, including security requirements and legal restrictions, to carry out the necessary administrative functions. Must have knowledge of the principles, theories and techniques of analysis to perform non-complex examinations; knowledge of selected racketeering vice activities; knowledge of accounting concepts; knowledge of cryptanalysis; knowledge of note taking to assist in documenting findings; knowledge
DOCUMENT ANALYST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Footwear and Tire Impressions Specialist
Questioned Documents Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
Entrance salaries range from GS-7 through GS-14. While GS-7 and GS-9 are trainee and advanced trainee positions, GS-11 and above are full performance/expert Forensic Examiner and Supervisory Forensic Examiner positions.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, holidays, and weekends.
- Must be willing to travel frequently, usually on short notice, to conduct crime scene examinations and to testify in court.
- Work is performed in a laboratory setting which may involve regular, recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens.
- Must be able to lift heavy objects (50 lbs or more) and have visual acuity to distinguish colors, sizes, and details.
DUTIES
- Must successfully complete training and sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time needed to complete training.
- Serve as an FE responsible for planning, coordinating, directing, and conducting forensic science activities.
- Inventory, examine, and perform comprehensive technical analyses of evidence related to footwear and tire impressions.
- Locate, identify, reconstruct, and preserve pertinent items of evidence for examinations from crime scenes.
- Prepare and furnish oral and written reports.
- Present necessary testimony in court.
REQUIREMENTS
Must be a United States citizen.
EDUCATION
Applicants must have a bachelors degree in Physical and Biological Sciences, Graphic Arts, Police Science, Criminology, or Law.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirement if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
All applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Specialized experience is defined as experience which includes the
independent examination and comparison of handwriting, printing, typewriting,
and other mechanical impressions in order to make determinations of
identity or genuineness; the analysis of inks, papers, and other recording
instruments and materials by chemical, microscopic, and other methods
in order to develop information useful in determinations of genuineness,
integrity, security, origin, validity of date or for restoration of
mutilated or obliterated matter.
DOCUMENT ANALYST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Questioned Documents Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
Entrance salaries range from GS-7 through GS-14. While GS-7 and GS-9 are trainee and advanced trainee positions, GS-11 and above are full performance/expert Forensic Examiner and Supervisory Forensic Examiner positions.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must complete training necessary for certification as an FBI Forensic Examiner (FE)
sign an FE Training Agreement wherein the employee is required to remain in service as an FE for three times the length of time it took to become certified.
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, holidays, and weekends.
- Must be willing to travel frequently, usually on short notice, to conduct crime scene examinations and to testify in court.
- Must be willing to work under hazardous conditions.
- The work is performed in a laboratory setting which may involve regular, recurring
exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens.
- Must be able to lift heavy objects (50 lbs or more), have visual acuity to distinguish colors, sizes, and details.
DUTIES
- Serve as an FE responsible for planning, coordinating, directing, and conducting forensic science activities.
- Inventory, examine, and perform comprehensive technical analyses of evidence such as handwriting, hand printing, typewriting, paper, altered or obliterated writing, burned or charred paper, and counterfeit documents.
- Locate, identify, reconstruct, and preserve pertinent items of evidence for examinations from crime scenes.
- Prepare and furnish oral and written reports.
- Present necessary testimony in court.
REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATION
- Must possess have major study (at least 24 semester hours) in physical and biological
sciences, graphic arts, police science, criminology or law.
- GS-7: Must have one full year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement in one of the above disciplines, or a bachelor’s degree and one year of Specialized Experience.
- GS-9: Must have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or a master’s degree, or an equivalent graduate degree in one of the above disciplines, or one year of Specialized Experience equivalent to at least GS-7.
- GS-11: Must have three full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or a Ph.D., or one year of Specialized Experience equivalent to at least GS-9.
- GS-12: Must have a bachelor’s degree or higher education and one year of Specialized Experience equivalent to at least GS-11.
- GS-13: Must have a bachelor’s degree or higher education and one year of Specialized Experience equivalent to at least GS-12.
- GS-14: Must have a bachelor’s degree or higher education and one year of Specialized Experience equivalent to at least GS-13.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized Experience is defined as experience which includes the independent examination and comparison of handwriting, printing, typewriting, and other mechanical impressions in order to make determinations of identity of genuineness. Analysis of inks, papers, and other recording instruments and materials by chemical, microscopic, and other methods in order to develop information useful in determinations of genuiness, integrity, security, origin, validity of date, or for restoration of mutilation or obliterated matter. Specialized document photography and preparation of photographic exhibits to be used for court documentation purposes, or supervision of such work.
and understanding of organizational policies and procedures within the FBI; knowledge of organizational and judicial mandates dealing with control of evidence; knowledge of rules of evidence and legal procedures involved in handling all types of evidence; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of laboratory safety practices; and knowledge of procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-9: In addition to the above requirements, serves as an FE responsible for assisting in planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities; reporting results; provides testimony; provides support and assistance to senior FEs; conducts examinations of highly complex evidence involving clandestine businesses; deciphers cryptic notations into meaningful notations to determine if evidence is of a legitimate nature or an illicit racketeering activity; assists with preparation of court exhibits; prepares worksheet, records findings, and prepares draft laboratory reports; completes necessary training; assists at crime scene locations; and responds to routine inquiries pertaining to examinations. Must perform involved examinations; assist in portions of complex examinations of clandestine business records; possess knowledge of general procedures used to process crime scenes; assist senior examiners in conducting training; and have knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and practices.
- GS-11: In addition to the above requirements, performs all facets of complicated case preparations; may analyze tape recorded conversations; prepares trial folders; provides testimony; serves as a member of a team of examiners; receives and provides training; and assists in research projects. Must be available for national and international travel. Must possess knowledge to perform all types of examinations involving complex records of clandestine businesses; thorough knowledge of selected racketeering vice activities; full knowledge of accounting concepts; full knowledge of cryptanalysis; conduct training; ability to use a micro-computer for tracking purposes; and exhibit independent problem solving skills.
- GS-12: In addition to the above requirements, deciphers complex cryptic notations; serves as a coordinator or member of a team of examiners in crime scene investigations; prepares court exhibits; prepares communications to field offices and other law enforcement agencies; reviews and synopsize case files to obtain necessary background information; attends highly specialized and advanced formal training; prepares and furnishes oral and written reports to investigators and prosecutors; serves as an authoritative consultant to the FBI and other agencies; provides training; conducts research projects, and must be available for national and international travel. Must possess comprehensive knowledge of principles, theories and methodologies of analysis to independently perform all types of examinations involving highly complex records of clandestine businesses; complete knowledge of accounting principles; complete knowledge of cryptanalysis; complete understanding of organizational policies and procedures within the FBI to address written inquiries; comprehensive knowledge of rules of evidence and legal procedures involved in handling all types
- GS-13: In addition to the above requirements, serves as a senior FE; performs all facets of highly complex case preparations; conducts all types of forensic examinations of most complex evidence; serves as senior advisor for the unit; oversees subordinate examiners; reviews lower-level examiners’ performance; independently conducts large scale field examinations of evidence; provides guidance to monitoring agents concerning on-going oral interceptions; recommends changes to existing guidelines; establishes, directs, and coordinates research efforts; presents research findings; prepares court exhibits; assists in pre-trial conferences with Assistant United States Attorneys; oversees distribution of evidence; conducts extensive liaison; teaches examination techniques; prepares and provides oral and written reports to field investigators and prosecutors and must travel as required. Must possess extensive knowledge to independently perform all types of examinations involving the most complex records; proficient knowledge of organizational and judicial mandates dealing with the control of evidence; skill in oral and written communications; provide expert opinion testimony; thorough knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; comprehensive knowledge of laboratory policies and procedures; professional acceptance as an established specialist in forensic specialty; and a thorough knowledge of laboratory safety and quality control/quality assurance practices.
- GS-14: In addition to the above requirements, serves as a Master FE responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing forensic science activities, to include expert examinations, reporting of results, training, testimony, and research activities in the field of cryptanalysis; is responsible for training and certification of other examiners; is a recognized expert in cryptanalysis and manages, supervises, and certifies work of subordinate examiners and technicians during training, project duties, and case work; conducts all types of forensic examinations of highly complex evidence; deciphers highly complex cryptic notations; performs comprehensive and authoritative technical analyses of evidence; prepares and furnishes oral and written repots to investigators and prosecutors; provides testimony; oversees distribution of evidence; serves as a coordinator of a team of examiners in major case crime scene investigations; serves as the manager of a major laboratory program; serves as an authoritative consultant; reviews examination results of subordinate examiners; teaches document examination techniques to less experienced examiners; and must be available for national and international travel. Must possess mastery knowledge in the principles, theories, and methodologies in the field of crypt-analysis as gleaned from extensive experience and/or education; extensive knowledge regarding selected racketeering activities; extensive knowledge of accounting concepts; extensive knowledge of cryptanalysis; mastery of rules of evidence and legal procedures; extensive knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; professional acceptance as an established expert in forensic cryptanalysis; ability to exhibit a high level of independent problem solving skills; extensive knowledge of crime scene procedures and policies; and an extensive knowledge of unit’s training functions.
EDUCATION
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and possess one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level as outlined below:
- GS-7: Must possess a bachelor’s degree in any field with demonstrated superior academic achievement or one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-5 level.
- GS-9: Must possess two full years of progressively higher level graduate education or a masters or equivalent degree such as an LL.B. or J.D. and one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade. Education beyond the bachelors degree, in specified field, may be substituted for all or part of the specialized experience at the higher grade levels.
- GS-11: Must possess three full years of progressively higher level graduate education and one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Education beyond the bachelors degree, in specified field, may be substituted for all or part of the specialized experience at the higher grade levels.
- Acceptable fields of study are accounting, banking, business, computer science, criminal justice, criminology, finance, forensic science, law enforcement, mathematics, or research
and intelligence analysis.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received
in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to cryptanalysis
or racketeering activities (investigation of drugs, gambling, money laundering, loan sharking, prostitution, etc.), as well as knowledge of accounting, business or banking
concepts (maintaining business records, cash flow, accounting principles, certified public accountant, financial analysis).
DRUGFIRE ASSISTANT PROGRAM MANAGER
Firearms / Toolmarks Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-12, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in an office environment and may involve some walking, bending, and standing
- Must be willing to work irregular, odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required, often with little notice
DUTIES
- Assists the Program Manager with contracting issues, program planning, training, installation, and support of DRUGFIRE throughout the United States
- Must coordinate meetings with officials from FBI, state, and local crime laboratories
- Assists in development and implementation of the DRUGFIRE database
- Assists in preparing budget proposals and personnel needs assessments
- Evaluates DRUGFIRE cartridge case and bullet matching software
- Maintains liaison with officials from federal, state, and local laboratories and law enforcement agencies participating in DRUGFIRE program
- Must utilize computer equipment and explain the software as it relates to firearms cases
REQUIREMENTS
Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-12: Professional knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts, and practices of physical science, engineering or mathematics to perform work in firearms identification, including protocols for the examination and comparison of fired ammunition components; types of marks left on fired ammunition components; be conversant in statistical information about crime involving firearms; experience with project planning and knowledge of budgets; ability to project budget and personnel needs; experience preparing and conducting executive-level presentations; ability to interview personnel; ability to communicate in writing; ability to identify and correct deficiencies; and experience designing and implementing computer-based networked systems
- GS-13: In addition to the above, must also travel for extended periods of time, often with little notice; coordinates DRUGFIRE-related issues with FBI and non-Bureau officials; assists in the development and implementation of DRUGFIRE database; drafts technical reports and provides them to Division officials; trains personnel; and must be able to discuss the operation of firearms and main points of firearms evidence and examinations
EXPERT ASSISTANT PROGRAM MANAGER
Explosives Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-13. There is no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in an office setting
- Must travel as required
- Work requires walking, bending, and standing
DUTIES
- Serves as the EXPeRT Systems Manager
- Assists the Program Manager in support of Explosive Reference Tool (EXPeRT)
- Represents the EXPeRT Program in the forensic and law enforcement community
- Conducts executive-level briefings
- Must travel, often with little notice
- Assists in the development and implementation of the EXPeRT database, including the formulation of policies and procedures
- Prepares budget proposals and personnel needs assessment
- Develops, designs, and implements hardware and software improvements to the EXPeRT database
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-13: Must possess a mastery of program management concepts, principles, and methodologies to effectively assist in managing the EXPeRT Program; knowledge and experience in FBI and/or Laboratory Division policies and procedures, including the budget process and strategic plans to ensure decisions and actions meet the Bureau’s goals and policies; ability to project budget and personnel needs; familiarity with procurement procedures; practical knowledge of computer hardware and software; working knowledge of commercial and military explosive projects; ability to discuss explosives with the forensic community; ability to maintain appropriate reference files; experience preparing and conducting executive-level presentations; ability to interview personnel; ability to express results and ideas concisely and clearly; and written and oral communication skills.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
- Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 level.
- Specialized experience is defined as experience which demonstrated analytical and technical ability, judgment, discretion, and knowledge of a substantial body of administrative, programmatic and technical principles, concepts, policies, and objectives. Specialized experience is further defined as experience with program management in relation to technical programs involving the utilization of computational resources, in particular databases.
FORENSIC ENGINEER
Special Projects Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must successfully complete training in working in and around hazardous/biological areas while wearing safety/protective equipment
- Must work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must work at field locations, often in remote locations and in hostile environments
- Must work outdoors in high and low temperature extremes and in adverse weather
- Must endure long periods of sitting, climbing, lifting, carrying items, walking, standing, and bending
DUTIES
- Serve as Program Manager and Team Leader over initiatives involving crime scene reconstruction work performed by the FBI worldwide
- Serve as Technical Manager over field office Evidence Response Team personnel who use digital surveying equipment in documenting crime scenes
- Interact with Bureau and law enforcement officials, as well as case agents and attorneys
- Establish, initiate, and implement training initiatives and develops training protocols
- Conduct research and testing of digital survey equipment
- Coordinates and oversees all data collection and subsequent preparation of high quality, high profile, often sensitive crime scene-related documentation
- Must present court testimony as necessary
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- Must have an engineering background and possess certification in an engineering discipline
- Must maintain and hold an engineering license
- Must possess and exhibit a thorough knowledge and understanding of the principles and theories of related physics, statistics, and dynamics
EDUCATION
All applicants must either:
(A) possess a bachelors degree in professional engineering. To be acceptable, the curriculum must (1) be in a school of engineering with at least one curriculum accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology as a professional engineering curriculum; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics:
- statistics; dynamics;
- strength of materials (stress-strain relationships);
- fluid mechanics, hydraulics;
- thermo-dynamics;
- electrical fields and circuits;
- nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); an
- any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer soil mechanics, or electronics or
(B) a combination of education and experience, college-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying professional engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following:
- Professional registration - current registration as a professional engineer by any state, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico
- Written test - evidence of having successfully passed the Engineering-in-Training examination, or the written test required for professional registration, which is administrated by the Boards of Engineering Examiners in the various states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
- Specified academic courses - successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of courses in the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences and in engineering that included the courses specified in the basic requirements. The courses must be fully acceptable toward meeting the requirements of a professional engineering curriculum as described in (A) above.
- Related curriculum - successful completion of a curriculum leading to a bachelors degree in engineering technology or in an appropriate professional field, e.g., physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be accepted in lieu of a degree in engineering, provided the applicant has had at least one year of professional engineering experience acquired under professional engineering supervision and guidance.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 level. Specialized experience is defined as experience in the knowledge of engineering theories or related physics, statistics, and dynamics. Extensive knowledge of advanced mathematics and engineering methodologies in order to conduct crime scene reconstruction.
FORENSIC CANINE OPERATIONS SPECIALIST
Evidence Response Team Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation takes
up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision
as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-12 and has promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must successfully complete training
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must work with moderate everyday risks or discomforts typical of crime scenes
- Must work outdoors in high and low temperature extremes and in adverse weather
- Must endure long periods of running, walking, standing, and bending
DUTIES
- Responds to and provides technical, investigative, and operational forensic canine support field offices and at higher levels
- Responsible for directing, implementing, coordinating, handling and/or overseeing human scent evidence canine assets and human remains detection canine assets for the FBI
- Provides technical assistance and direct support to Headquarters, field offices, investigative staff relating to the collection and storage of human scent evidence
- Plans, conducts or participates in research studies; recommends future program objectives
- Acts as a single contributor or as a team leader of subject matter experts
- Responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring sophisticated human scent evidence and human remains detection information systems
- Must serve as a handler for one or more canines and provide care and training to same
- Must present court testimony as necessary
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-12: Knowledge of research and analysis methods to recommend new or modified techniques relating to the FBI’s Forensic Canine Program; knowledge of evidence collection, storage procedures, and investigative and operational methods; knowledge of human scent evidence methodology to provide input and recommendations in the development and/or implementation of federal laws and FBI policies; demonstrated interpersonal and administrative skills; ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing; manual dexterity and skill in handling canines; knowledge of educational and instructional methodologies and techniques in order to develop courses and provide human scent/evidence canine program training to FBI and other law enforcement personnel; knowledge of, and skill to apply, investigative activities including, but not limited to, the investigation of FBI statutes applied to widely varying and complex or sensitive situations; knowledge of legal procedures and rules of evidence to handle evidence appropriately and provide effective testimony.
- GS-13: Mastery knowledge of research and analysis methods to develop policies, procedures and protocols relating to the FBI’s Forensic Canine Program; thorough knowledge of evidence collection, storage procedures, and investigative and operational methods in order to support investigative activities, operations, and training; thorough in-depth knowledge of human scent evidence methodology to provide a comprehensive knowledge of issues and programs for the development and/or implementation of federal laws and FBI policies; knowledge of education and instructional methodologies and techniques in order to develop courses and provide human scent/evidence canine program training to FBI and other law enforcement personnel; demonstrated ability to plan, organize, and direct team/task force efforts across departmental and organizational lines; ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing; manual dexterity and skill in handling canines.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
FORENSIC SYSTEMS PROGRAM MANAGER
CODIS Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14. There is no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work requires bending, stooping, lifting, and long periods of standing
- Work is performed in an office setting
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Oversees the design, development, enhancement, and maintenance of complex applications consisting of multiple systems and/or databases
- Coordinates formulation of policy to ensure the computer system allows for the collection, storage, and retrieval of information
- Develops strategic and program plans
- Establishes standards and operating procedures for agencies assessing the system
- Determines operational and policy constraints
- Develops program to train state and local crime laboratory and law enforcement personnel
- Manages contractors in the development of software
- Responsible for overseeing a multi-million dollar budget and serve as COTR
- Prepare and conduct executive level presentations to state, federal, and international officials
- May provide direct supervision to an Assistant Program Manager
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-14: Must possess a mastery of management and administrative theory and practice; experience in managing federal programs, including knowledge of financial and budget requirements, government contracting for computer-related support services, and a working knowledge of contracting regulations and procedures; demonstrated knowledge of theory and techniques of program management as applied to software development projects; familiarity with project life cycle and software life cycles; ability to prepare and conduct presentations for professional groups; and a working knowledge of current computer technology.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent
to at least the GS-13 grade level. Specialized experience is defined
as experience in managing a program which includes planning, development,
implementation, and oversight of a complex database and/or system.
This includes developing short and long term plans with milestones,
setting goals, assigning work, identifying problems, and adjusting
priorities and schedules to accomplish desired results. This requires
analytical ability, judgment, discretion, and knowledge of program
management principles, concepts, policies, and objectives.
FORENSIC SYSTEMS PROGRAM MANAGER
Explosives Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14. There is no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in an office setting
- Must travel as required
- Work requires bending, stooping, lifting, and long periods of standing
DUTIES
- Serves as manager of the ExPERT Program
- Oversees the design, development, enhancement, and maintenance of complex applications consisting of multiple systems and/or databases
- Coordinates formulation of policy to ensure the computer system allows for the collection, storage, and retrieval of information
- Develops strategic and program plans
- Establishes standards and operating procedures for agencies assessing the system
- Determines operational and policy constraints
- Develops program to train state and local crime laboratory and law enforcement personnel
- Manages contractors in the development of software
- Responsible for overseeing a multi-million dollar budget and serve as COTR
- Prepare and conduct executive level presentations to state, federal, and international officials
- May provide direct supervision to an Assistant Program Manager
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-14: Must possess a mastery of management and administrative theory and practice; experience in managing federal programs, including knowledge of financial and budget requirements, government contracting for computer-related support services, and a working knowledge of contracting regulations and procedures; demonstrated knowledge of theory and techniques of program management as applied to software development projects; familiarity with project life cycle and software life cycles; ability to prepare and conduct presentations for professional groups; and a working knowledge of current computer technology.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Applicants must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level. Specialized experience is defined as managing a program, which includes planning, development, implementation, and oversight of a complex database and/or system. This includes developing short and long-term plans, setting goals, assigning work, identifying problems, and adjusting priorities and schedules. This requires analytical ability, judgment, discretion, and knowledge of program management principles and
concepts.
GEOLOGIST
Trace Evidence Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves prolonged periods of standing and lifting of items less than 50 pounds
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to irritant chemicals and x-rays
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Inventory receipted evidence
- Search evidence for glass fragments, insulation, soils or other materials
- Perform technical measurements on glass and reconstruct glass items
- Prepare samples for x-rays
- Maintain and update reference collections
- Attend training
- Proofread reports
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of geology or earth sciences; knowledge of application of geological and mineralogical principles; skill in operating analytical instruments.
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, conducts examinations on glass and soils; inventories evidence received from other agencies; examines evidence for glass or soil; performs qualitative mineralogic exams on soil; trains lower grade employees; assists in exams of mineralogical materials; and attends training. Must have professional knowledge of geological and mineralogical principles; knowledge of microscopic and instrumental methods of analysis of soil; knowledge of other examinations performed by the FBI; and knowledge of FBI and federal regulations regarding examinations of evidence.
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, conducts exams on all classes of materials submitted to the unit; examines gemstones to determine if natural or a substitute material; prepares gemstones for undercover matters; instructs lower grade employees; attends training; and performs instrument maintenance. Must have professional knowledge of geological and mineralogical principles, theories, practices and established methodology as acquired through a four-year or longer curriculum at an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s degree in geology or earth science.
- GS-12: In addition to the above duties and requirements, oversees distribution of evidence; prepares summaries of results; must travel as required; may participate in crime scene or evidence collection activities, and conducts research and prepares technical papers. Must have professional experience in forensic analysis of all types of mineralogical materials; skill in developing new analytical methods; rules of evidence and legal procedures; knowledge and experience in principles and operation of all analytical equipment necessary to perform analyses; knowledge of rules and regulations relative to examination of evidence; and knowledge and experience of training and teaching methods used to instruct personnel.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must meet either (A) possess a degree in geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography or (B) combination of education and experience with course work as shown in (A) above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
- All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience gained through geological field or laboratory work which provided a means of obtaining professional knowledge of the theory and application of the principles of geology and closely related sciences, e.g., geophysics, geochemistry, or hydrology. Such work generally must have involved making close observations, taking samples, handling various types of
instruments and equipment, assembling geologic data from source materials, and analyzing and reporting findings orally and in writing.
GEOLOGIST MINERALOGY PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Trace Evidence Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information
is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work involves mostly standing at a laboratory bench, with some sedentary work
- Work involves regular and recurring exposure to chemical irritants
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must provide on-site crime scene assistance
- Must provide court testimony
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Serves as a Senior Geologist in the Bureau
- Participates in the overall management of the Mineralogy Program
- Writes technical policies, standards, and procedures
- Acts as an authority, leader, or mentor in mineralogy and geology areas of expertise
- Provides mineralogy and geology expertise to crime laboratories throughout the world
- Establishes, directs, and coordinates all research related to mineralogy and geology
- Presents research findings to the forensic science community
- Administers and manages assigned cases
- Ensures proper operation of all instrumentation and technical equipment
- Conducts studies concerning projected expenditures
- Writes documentation justifying and supporting funding requests
- Conducts and supervises crime scene processing
- Teaches examination techniques to law enforcement personnel
- Provides training to federal, state, and local personnel
- Trains new Special Agent examiners and monitors their performance
- Receives evidence and oversees distribution to various examiners
- Examines evidence for presence of soil, glass, and/or other mineralogical material
- Writes reports
- Testifies as an expert in forensic geology
- Is responsible for and maintains security and control of the FBI’s Gem Collection
- Provides gemstone expertise to HQ personnel relative to jewelry and gemstones being provided to undercover Agents
- Supervises one employee
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-14: Must possess a comprehensive professional knowledge of geological and mineralogical theories, principles, practices, and established methodology as acquired through a full four year or longer curriculum in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s degree in geology or earth science or equivalent; knowledge of management and administrative policies and principles; knowledge of application of principles, theories, and methodology of forensic geology; extremely high level of in-depth knowledge of all areas and specialties in the field of geology and related geological/mineralogical sciences, in addition to extensive supplemental knowledge in a wide variety of forensic science disciplines; professional in-depth knowledge of principles of and/or skill in operating analytical instruments utilized in geology examinations; comprehensive knowledge of gemstone identification techniques; knowledge of Bureau rules and federal regulations relative to examination of evidence; knowledge of procedures for court testimony and judicial acceptance as an established specialist and expert in the field of forensic geology; knowledge of teaching and training methods to instruct personnel in use of forensic geology techniques; and knowledge of crime scene processing and the probative evaluation of physical evidence.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must meet either (A) possess a degree in geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography or (B) combination of education and experience with course work as shown in (A) above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
- All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience gained through geological field or laboratory work which provided a means of obtaining professional knowledge of the theory and application of the principles of geology and closely related sciences, e.g., geophysics, geochemistry, or hydrology. Such work generally must have involved making close observations, taking samples, handling various types of instruments and equipment, assembling geologic data from source materials, and analyzing and reporting findings orally and in writing.
ILLUSTRATOR
Special Projects Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-5, and has promotional potential to a GS-10.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must successfully complete training
- Work is primarily sedentary with period of standing at drawing tables
- Work is in an office setting
DUTIES
- Work with higher grade illustrators to prepare charts, maps, diagrams, flyers, page layouts, etc., from sketches and photographs
- Prepare diagrams and paste-ups
- Operate photo-typesetting equipment
- Must perform general illustrating assignments which involve tracing line drawings in ink, lettering, and doing background work on illustrations
- Assist senior illustrators to complete illustrations and/or projects
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-5: Must possess skill in drawing freehand and with drawing instruments; must possess knowledge of common art media; must possess skill in use of illustrating techniques:
- GS-7: Must possess skill in drawing freehand and with drawing instruments; proficiency in use of art media, such as pen-and-ink, pencil, watercolor, tempera, etc.; knowledge of and skill in factually and accurately interpreting a variety of objects, materials, and ideas
- GS-9: Must possess talent and training to perform a variety of illustrating work; must possess a comprehensive knowledge of the practical uses of various media and computer graphics software; skill in use of computerized design, electronic typesetting, and photographic equipment; knowledge of printing processes relating to reproduction of black and white photographs; ability to communicate effectively.
- GS-10: Artistic knowledge and skill in illustration concepts, principles and practices to conceive, plan and execute difficult and complex work assignments; knowledge of various art media and reproduction processes to determine the most effective way of portraying objectives; knowledge to visually interpret highly complex investigative prosecutive and technical data; performs the most difficult illustrative work through computer graphics programs and traditional art techniques; knowledge of rules of evidence and courtroom procedures in order to testify.
EDUCATION
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as noted below:
- GS-7: Must have a bachelors degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Superior Academic Achievement is defined as the completion of all requirements for a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university, which is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade point average (3.0 or higher as recorded on official transcripts, or as based on courses completed during the final two years of the curriculum) or (3) honor society membership.
- GS-9: Must have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education or masters or equivalent graduate degree (such as an LL.B. or J.D.)
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as follows:
- GS-7: Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 grade level. Specialized experience is defined as experience in preparing basic graphic presentations of objects, facts, or ideas requiring the use of commonly used art media and good artistic ability.
- GS-9: Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level. Specialized experience is defined as experience in preparing detailed graphic presentations of objects, facts, or ideas requiring the use of a variety of art media and good artistic ability.
LEAD BIOLOGIST
DNA Analysis Unit 1
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-13, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work requires standing, stretching, bending, and hand/finger dexterity
- Work requires a great deal of walking and lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds
- Work is performed in a laboratory, which may involve regular, recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, bloodborne pathogens, and materials of unknown hazard or risk
- Must have basic knowledge of chemical and bloodborne pathogens safety precautions
- Must be able to distinguish differences in color
- Must wear protective clothing
- Must complete training
DUTIES
- Serves as Lead Biologist
- Responsible for overseeing specialized laboratory functions
- Serves as technical authority and advisor to lower grade employees
- Coordinates, communicates work assignments, and balances work load of employees
- Responsible for maintaining records of work accomplishments
- Monitors work performance, e.g., turnaround time, number of items submitted, and number of cases completed
- Provides instruction/training and serves as mentor to other biologists
- Works with supervisor to secure necessary resources for unit, e.g., supplies and personnel
- Responsible for resolving simple and informal complaints
- Serve as senior biologist and conduct exams on highly complex cases
- Oversees and reviews quality assurance and quality control measures
- Serves as liaison to the Federal Convicted Offender Program
- Attends unit meetings and conferences
- Coordinates maintenance and instrumentation repairs
- Monitors daily safety practices
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
- GS-13: Must possess professional and comprehensive knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of forensic biology, the methodologies applicable to forensic DNA analysis and/or forensic serology, and the proper handling of evidence; thorough knowledge of the Unit’s standard operating procedures involving case working disciplines; skill and experience in conducting forensic biology examinations on evidence; ability to exercise a high degree of skill in assessing completeness and accuracy of data from case work examinations; comprehensive knowledge of specific quality assurance and quality control practices as they relate to the analysis of forensic DNA; substantial knowledge and skill in performing forensic serology and DNA analysis examinations; extensive skill in computer usage; and high degree of oral and written communication skills.
EDUCATION
Applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s (or higher) degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry or forensic science or (B) a combination of education and experience, which includes course work equivalent to major in a field listed above and have appropriate experience or additional education which demonstrates similarly appropriate skills or abilities needed to perform the duties of this position.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level. Specialized experience is work in biochemistry, genetics, or molecular biology performed in a forensic laboratory setting, which includes planning, coordinating, and/or directing forensic science activities; performing complex examinations; recording results in forensic biology; and serving as a senior laboratory scientist (biologist).
METALLURGIST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Chemistry Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-14.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in a laboratory setting and may involve regular, recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires walking, bending, stretching, crawling, and lifting while processing evidence
- Work requires manual dexterity and flexibility, with some assignments requiring lifting of objects up to 50 pounds or more
- Must follow safety practices and wear protective clothing
- Must successfully complete training and sign a training agreement equal to three times the length of time of the training
DUTIES
- Performs limited analyses on metals
- Prepares specimens for examination
- Writes laboratory notes
- Receives, inventories, and delivers evidence
- Assembles pertinent materials for presentation in court
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-7: Must possess professional knowledge of metallurgical principles, theories, concepts, and practices; skill in operating and calibrating analytical instruments; sound knowledge of application of metallurgical principles, theories, practices, and established methodology; skill in performing assigned examinations; knowledge of related disciplines including chemistry, physics, and math; knowledge of the rules of evidence and legal procedures involved in handling evidence; skill in written and oral communications; and knowledge of laboratory safety procedures.
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, conducts tests using classical metallurgical methodology; receives advanced training; and provides training to new employees. Must possess full professional knowledge of metallurgical principles, theories, practices, and studies; skill in selecting parameters for instrument operation and calibrating complex instrumentation; knowledge of general principles used to process crime scenes and collect evidence; knowledge of the rules of evidence and legal procedures; ability to provide test results orally and in writing.
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, performs all facets of complicated case preparations; receives evidence; performs analysis utilizing full range of analytical methods; prepares and furnishes reports to investigators, law enforcement, and prosecutors; testifies in court; provides accurate technical information pertaining to submitted items of evidence; develops analytical procedures in areas of need; consults with vendors; serves with a team of examiners in crime scene investigations; receives training; trains other personnel; and must travel as required. Must possess professional knowledge of metallurgical principles, theories, concepts, and practices; ability to use microcomputer for tracking and production of reports; thorough knowledge of the rules of evidence; coordinates receipt and delivery of evidence; thorough knowledge of safety and quality control/quality assurance practices; and knowledge of procedures used to process crime scenes and collect evidence.
- GS-12: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a specialist for the most sophisticated equipment; determines need for additional analyses; oversees distribution of evidence; assists Unit Chief in monitoring examiner training and performance; conducts research projects; and conducts extensive liaison. Must possess professional knowledge of principles of metallurgy demonstrated by education and experience; must have practical knowledge and skill necessary to apply analytical methodology to examinations; working knowledge of forensic sciences; knowledge of rules of evidence, legal procedures, and court practices; thorough knowledge of general procedures used to process crime scenes and collect evidence; and ability to exhibit a high level of independent problem solving.
- GS-13: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a Senior Forensic Examiner, using experience to direct the FBI’s effort in the most complex examinations of evidence; acts as point-of-contact for all agencies seeking services; serves as a specialist and resource person for sophisticated equipment; develops experimental procedures for examining materials; provides sophisticated instrument modification and service. Serves as coordinator or team member of examiners in major case crime scene investigations; as authoritative consultant to FBI and other agencies; and as senior advisor overseeing other subordinate technicians. Teaches exam techniques to other employees and law enforcement officials; assists the Unit Chief in monitoring examiner training and performance; and presents research findings. Must possess professional knowledge of scientific techniques and procedures in the examination and analysis of evidence gained by education and experience in the field of forensic metallurgy; thorough knowledge of the uses of computers to control instruments and produce meaningful data; provides expert opinion testimony and deliver high level briefings. Must have professional acceptance as an established specialist in forensic specialty and a thorough knowledge of crime scene procedures.
- GS-14: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a Master Forensic Examiner responsible for training and certification of other examiners in the field. Is a recognized expert in forensic metallurgy and in the use of highly sophisticated instrumentation. Manages, supervises, and certifies work of subordinate examiners and analysts; prepares and furnishes reports to law enforcement officials and prosecutors; has a depth of experience with all types of forensic examinations; oversees distribution of evidence to examiners; and, as required, serves as the manager of a major laboratory program or initiative. Serves as an authoritative consultant to the FBI and other agencies in responding to inquiries pertaining to forensic examinations; reviews work of subordinates; teaches metallurgy examination techniques; and establishes, directs, and coordinates research activities. Must possess mastery of scientific techniques and procedures in the field of forensic metallurgy; mastery of principles used in forensic metallurgy; comprehensive knowledge of instruments and equipment used in the examination of metallurgical evidence; mastery of rules of evidence and legal procedures involved in handling evidence; Must have professional acceptance as an established expert in forensic metallurgy; ability to apply innovative and established methods and procedures to specific cases; thorough knowledge of safety and quality control/quality assurance practices; and extensive knowledge of crime scene procedures.
EDUCATION
- Applicants must meet either (A) possess a degree in metallurgy or metallurgical engineering that includes at least 20 semester hours in metallurgical subjects that include corrosion, foundry, production/process metallurgy, physical metallurgy, and strength of materials (mechanical metallurgy) or (B) a combination of education and experience with courses equivalent to a major, as shown in (A) above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which equips the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to work of the position to be filled.
MICROBIOLOGIST
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-11, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in an office setting
- Work may also require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, carrying of heavy objects, and collection and processing of evidence in a hazardous materials environment
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
- Must travel as required, often with little or no advance notice
DUTIES
- Provides insight and information to senior scientist in addressing biology related aspects of responding to incidents
- Provides technical and scientific information for use in responding to hazardous materials incidents
- Assists in the coordination of testing of suspect biological materials
- Works with public health agencies
- Attends training and assists in training other employees and professionals
- Assists with acquisition and transport of biology-related evidence
- Deploys as required
- Ensures response equipment is prepared and ready for deployment
- Arranges for transport, unpacking, set-up, and take-down of response equipment at deployment site
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-11: Must have a professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of microbiology and biological chemistry as they relate to hazardous materials, toxic chemicals, biological pathogens and radiological substances; familiarity with current research literature; knowledge of procedures used to assess biological pathogens; professional knowledge and demonstrated experience in use of methods associated with molecular biology, immunology, clinical microbiology, bacteriology, and virology; and knowledge of biological pathogens and their potential use as weapons.
- GS-12: Provides insight and information to senior scientist in addressing biology related aspects of responding to incidents. Oversees lower grade microbiology personnel; prepares assessments related to biological threats; provides technical and scientific information to be used for responding to hazardous materials incidents; assists in the coordination of testing of suspect biological materials; works with public health laboratories; attends training; prepares and presents micro-biology related training to employees and other professionals; arranges for transport, unpacking, set-up, and take-down of response equipment at deployment site and deploys as required. Ensures response equipment is prepared and ready for deployment. Must also possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of microbiology and biological chemistry as they relate to hazardous materials, toxic chemicals, biological pathogens and radiological substances; familiarity with current research literature; knowledge of procedures used to assess biological pathogens; professional knowledge and demonstrated experience in use of methods associated with molecular biology, immunology, clinical microbiology, bacteriology, and virology; and knowledge of biological pathogens and their potential use as weapons; knowledge of and proficiency in crime scene operations; and knowledge of the Bureau’s procedures for managing case work, evidence, and chain of custody requirements.
- GS-13: Addresses biology related aspects of responding to incidents and oversees lower grade personnel. Prepares and presents assessments; develops information to conduct a response to incidents; directs testing on suspect materials; maintains liaison; prepares and presents training; attends training; oversees safe transport of evidence and serves as a member of the deployment team. During deployments, oversees lower grade employees; submits written reports; coordinates the transport, unpacking, set-up, and take-down of response equipment at deployment site and deploys as required. Ensures response equipment is prepared and ready for deployment. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, terminology, and methods of microbiology and biological chemistry as they relate to hazardous materials, toxic chemicals, biological pathogens and radiological substances; and be familiar with current research literature.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must either (A) a bachelors degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that includes at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of micro-organisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent or (B) a combination of education and experience. Education must be equivalent to one of a major in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses shown in (A) above plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
MICROBIOLOGIST
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in offices, laboratories, non-laboratory off-sites, or at deployment sites
- Work performed outside an office can include the potential for exposure to hazardous materials, toxic chemicals, biological pathogens, and radiological substances
- Work requires certification of technician-level proficiency, as well as actual conduct of proper donning and offing of personal protective equipment
- Work may also require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, carrying of heavy objects, and collection and processing of evidence in a hazardous materials environment
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required, often with little or no advance notice
DUTIES
- Serves as the overall Program Manager for major bioterrorism program, including managing the Laboratory Response Network Program, which involves oversight for 110 laboratories in the US and 4 abroad, and managing the Bioterrorism Evidence Collection Program
- Responsible for managing a budget in excess of $1 million
- Develops and implements training programs
- Serves as an internationally known expert on biological matters
- Reports to the Director of the FBI and other high ranking officials regarding bioterrorism
- Addresses biology-related aspects of responding to incidents or questions involving the release or threatened release of hazardous materials
- Independently prepares and presents assessments related to biological threats
- Maintains liaison with US Public Health laboratory community
- Develops technical and scientific information needed to conduct a thorough response to hazardous material incidents
- Directs testing on suspect biological materials
- Attends training and trains other employees and professionals
- Assists with acquisition and transport of biology-related evidence
- Serves as the lead scientist during operational response deployments
- Ensures timely, effective, and safe transfer of biologically-contaminated evidence
- Provides written reports
- Deploys as required
- Oversees team members
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-14: Must possess professional expert knowledge of the principles, theories, terminology, and methods of microbiology and biological chemistry as they relate to hazardous materials, toxic chemicals, biological pathogens, and radiological substances; thorough knowledge of program management principles; subject area expertise regarding biological pathogens and their potential use as biological weapons; familiarity with current research literature; knowledge of procedures used to assess relative vulnerabilities, risks, and threats relating to biological pathogens; knowledge of and proficiency in crime scene operations in a hazardous environment; and knowledge of Bureau’s procedures for managing case work, including evidence handling procedures.
EDUCATION
- All applicant must meet either (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in microbiology; or biology, chemistry or basic medical science that included at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of micro-organisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent or (B) possess a combination of education and experience with courses equivalent to a major in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses in shown in (A) above, physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
In addition to meeting the above requirements, applicants must have specialized experience and/or directly related education as listed below.
- All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Specialized experience is defined as experience in the development of scientific microbiological methods, procedures, and techniques, and the production and use of microorganisms in agricultural, industrial, medical, sanitary, or other practical applications.
MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM ANALYST
CODIS Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
Positions are from the GS-7 through GS-14 salary range.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is typically performed in an office setting.
- Must travel as required.
DUTIES
- Performs duties in support of Unit programs, which includes Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).
- The CODIS supports the National DNA Index System (NDIS), State DNA Index System (SDIS), and the local DNA Index System (LDIS). NDIS is the highest level in the CODIS hierarchy and enables laboratories participating in the CODIS Program exchange and compare DNA profiles on a national level.
- Principle duties are to prepare and monitor program plans; formulate, present and defend budget proposals; conduct program analysis and evaluations; measure the impact and
effectiveness of forensic computer systems developed and operated by the Unit.
- Directs complex studies requiring the application of analytical and statistical methods and techniques to coordinate program objectives and operations for CODIS, NDIS, SDIS and LDIS, or to show whether established programs are accomplishing their objectives effectively.
- Prepares reports required by the DNA Identification Act.
- Prepares detailed program/project papers, staff reports and legislative guidelines regarding program effectiveness or other management issues affecting CODIS and NDIS. Delivers
detailed and complex briefings of findings and recommendations regarding budget issues, legislation and regulations.
- Makes evaluation analyses of all aspects of forensic computer systems programs including program objectives, policies, work operations and progress, resource estimates and utilization, intra and inter-program balances.
- Defines new program needs after considering such factors as the effect of conditions within the FBI, the Laboratory Division, or Section as well as requirements of conditions set by outside agencies.
- Develops and recommends program or operational objectives for new or expanded forensic computer programs.
- Performs a variety of duties regarding contracts controlled by the Unit.
- Work with various entities to develop, justify, and defend the Unit’s Acquisition Information Strategy”, which is required by the FBI’s Contract Review Board and DOJ.
- Presents conclusions and recommendations based on analysis and evaluations to operating or management officials for their use in managing or administering forensic computer systems programs.
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Knowledge and skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques; knowledge of the theory and principles of management and organization, including administrative practices; knowledge of literature search, work measurement, task analysis, organization design and space planning; good oral and written communication skills; and skill in conducting interviews. Education may be substituted for specialized experience if completed a bachelor’s degree and meet the requirements for superior academic achievement - class standing, a grade point average of 3.0 or higher as recorded on an official college transcript or computed based on courses completed during final 2 years of curriculum, or honor society membership.
- GS-9: In addition to the above requirements, must plan, coordinate, and conduct studies involving budget and financial management, compliance management, policy development, records management and/or training; assess and recommend personnel actions; prepare flow charts and reports; assist higher-level analysts in writing reports; conduct data quality reviews; conduct presentations; provide briefings to managers; and establish and maintain liaison with internal and external representatives. Education may be substituted for specialized experience if completed a master’s or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher graduate education.
- GS-11: In addition to the above requirements, must develop analytical methods and detailed procedures, in order to collect and develop necessary information; conduct detailed in-depth analysis of administrative/program activities, and present recommendations to management; perform in-depth studies on a variety of issues as directed by executive management; make recommendations to improve the accuracy and adequacy of information systems; implement new projects; review, analyze, and interpret data; research and analyze existing policies; coordinate with other entities to ensure compatibility of policies with existing laws and federal regulations; advise management on budgetary issues, and assist in the development of manuals, guides and information packages. Education may be substituted for specialized experience if completed a Ph.D. or equivalent degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree.
- GS-12: In addition to the above requirements, must analyze diverse and complex issues relating to the management of administrative/operational programs; plan, schedule, and conduct multi-faceted projects and studies; perform comparative cost analysis; track goals and objectives; make changes to materials and manuals; produce integrated quality assurance reports; conduct detailed analyses of complex functions, including examination of production standards; conduct audits; review and analyze data; participate in the budget administration process; perform complex research on comprehensive policy materials, directives, laws, and regulations; prepare complex reports, and participate in special projects. Must possess knowledge of the major issues, program goals and objectives, work processes, and administrative operations of the organization. Education may not be substituted for experience at the GS-12 level.
- GS-13: In addition to the above requirements, must serve as an advisor and senior consultant to executives, managers, and operational personnel; analyze diverse, difficult, and complex issues relating to the management of administrative and/or operational programs; prepare project plans, analyze current or proposed administrative and/or operational programs to evaluate their actual or potential effectiveness; research policies, directives, and regulations to evaluate and develop new ideas; provide guidance and direction to other employees; identify highly complex planning issues; develop budget estimates and justifications; coordinate short- and long-term planning; develop methods in order to ensure resources are best utilized; direct contractor activities; and maintain liaison with other personnel throughout the FBI. Must possess expert knowledge and mastery in the application of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of program effectiveness; comprehensive knowledge of the range of administrative laws, executive orders, directives, and policies applicable to Bureau programs; and possess knowledge of Bureau program goals and objectives; analytical ability to design and conduct comprehensive management studies. Must also possess analytical ability to design and conduct comprehensive management and/or program studies; prepare complete, clear, and concise formal and informal reports, correspondence, briefings, charts, tables, and graphs which are distributed throughout the FBI, and have the ability to plan, organize, and direct team study work.
- GS-14: In addition to the above requirements, serve as the expert advisor and consultant providing oversight and advice to executives, managers, and operational personnel; independently plan, research, and analyze a broad range of management and program functions addressing the most widely diverse, complex, and difficult duties related to administrative management issues; independently organize and/or conduct extensive, highly complex, and multi-faceted studies involving a wide variety of administrative and program operations; develop strategic plans; ensure compliance with overall mission; design and conduct extensive studies to analyze current administrative and operational programs; modify staffing levels to address operational crises and/or budgetary decisions; ensure training is developed and provided to personnel; develop performance measures in personnel, training, and administrative program areas; develop and present complex oral presentations and briefings to high level management; and conduct extensive research of policy materials, directives, laws, and regulations which require substantial interpretation. Must possess mastery knowledge of applicable theories, principles, practices, and techniques of research and analysis concepts; comprehensive knowledge of administrative laws, executive orders, directives, policies, and precedents applicable to Bureau programs; thorough and broad knowledge of Bureau’s overall structure, mission, and function; knowledge of Bureau program goals and objectives; analytical ability to design and conduct comprehensive management and/or program studies; expert ability to communicate orally and in writing, and the ability to plan, organize, and direct team study work.
EDUCATION
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as follows:
- GS-7: Must have completed a bachelors degree and meet the requirements for Superior Academic Achievement (1) class standing, (2) a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, as recorded on an official college transcript, or as computed based on courses completed during the final two years of curriculum, or (3) honor society membership.
- GS-9: Masters or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or L.L.M.
- GS-11: Ph.D. or equivalent graduate degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or L.L.M.
- GS-12: No substitution of education.
- GS-13: No substitution of education.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
The specialized experience for each grade level is as follows:
- GS-7: Must have one year of specialized experience related to the work of the position and equivalent to the GS-5 level. Specialized experience is defined as experience in the substantive nature of agency program and activities; agency missions/policies/objectives; management principles/processes; and/or developmental assignments in research, analytical and evaluative techniques for assessing program development or execution and improving organization effectiveness and efficiency.
- GS-9: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level. Specialized experience is defined as experience in the substantive nature or agency programs and activities; agency missions, policies, and objectives; management principles and processes; and analytical and evaluative methods and techniques for assessing program development or execution and improving organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
- GS-11: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 level. Specialized experience is experience researching, analyzing, and evaluating methods and techniques for assessing technical and operational development and execution in order to improve organizational effectiveness/efficiency. Specialized experience includes performing technical and/or operational research and analytical duties on a regular and recurring basis.
- GS-12: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level. Specialized experience includes researching, analyzing, and evaluating methods and techniques to improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
GS-13: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level, which is experience researching, analyzing, and evaluating methods and techniques for assessing technical and operational development and execution in order to improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYST
Chem-Bio Sciences Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14. There is no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Work is performed primarily in office, conference room, laboratory, and classroom
DUTIES
- Coordinates multifaceted scientific research and analytic activities
- Provides scientific and technical consultation to other members of the unit
- Formulates or conducts a variety of analytic studies to improve and augment the Division’s operational capabilities
- Conducts threat assessment studies
- Collaborates with other government agencies
- Coordinates and/or conducts research and development studies in support of the Unit’s operational programs
- Coordinates and/or conducts research and development studies to support coordination of technical resources Bureau-wide
- Designs and implements systematic and rigorous scientific procedures
- Impanels and chairs peer review committees
- Prepares written technical reports and provides oral presentations and instruction
- Serves as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- Professional competence in scientific methods of analysis
- Must possess comprehensive knowledge of related science fields, including chemistry, biology, and physical sciences in order to coordinate research projects
- Must possess professional skill in the development of research designs and methodologies
- Manage and coordinate staff assignments
- Knowledge of, and skill in, configuration and use of computer equipment for scientific research
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- Skill in scientific and technical writing
Knowledge of Bureau regulations, including security requirements and legal restrictions
EDUCATION
- All candidates must have successfully completed a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s (or higher) degree operations research; or at least 24 semester hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
In addition to the above, applicants must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
Specialized experience is defined as work requiring the design, development, and adaptation of mathematical, statistical, econometric, and other scientific methods and techniques to analyze technical and scientific problems and to provide advice and insight about the probable effects of alternative solutions to these problems. The primary requirement of the work is competence in the rigorous methods of scientific inquiry and analysis.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN
Firearms / Toolmarks Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation
could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information
is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-5, with promotional potential to a GS-10.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work requires inventorying and processing evidence, walking, stretching, bending, crawling, and lifting.
- Work requires handling firearms, ammunition, black powder, vehicle parts, and occasionally working under motor vehicles
- Must possess physical strength, flexibility, and dexterity
- Some work requires considerable, strenuous physical exertion
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds or more
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
- Must be willing to work irregular, odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Performs less complex analyses relating to examination of evidence
- Assists Forensic Examiners in receiving and inventorying evidence
- Performs routine examinations and preliminary analysis of evidence
- Assists with maintenance and handling of case records
- Prepares notes, charts, and sketches
- Packages and returns evidence to contributors
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-5: Basic knowledge of scientific techniques and procedures; knowledge of firearms, ammunition, tools, and toolmarks; familiarity with characteristics and use of scientific equipment; knowledge of the rules of evidence and legal procedures involved in handling evidence; knowledge of laboratory safety practices; and basic knowledge of types of examinations performed throughout the Division.
- GS-7: In addition to the above duties and requirements, performs examinations of firearms, bullets, gunpowder, and gunshot residue tests; analyzes toolmarked surfaces; examine VIN plates to determine method of alteration; utilize the National Altered Automotive Numbers File; restore altered serial numbers; conduct examinations on locks and keys; stores evidence and assists with delivery; assists forensic examiners; test fires firearms; maintains examiner records; prepares charts and sketches; packages and returns evidence; maintain unit equipment; and conducts research projects. Must possess knowledge of principles, theories, and methodology of forensic comparison microscopy as applied to firearms and toolmarks examinations; knowledge of principles, procedures, and protocols of gunshot residue analyses; knowledge of photographic, instrumental, and chemical methods to examine evidence; and knowledge of firearms; ammunition, tools, and toolmarks to examine evidence
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, assists forensic examiners in receiving and inventorying incoming evidence; independently performs initial observations, measurements, and analyses relating to the examination of evidence; participates in all examinations; adapts methods as appropriate to complete assignments; proofreads reports and correspondence; prepares notes; assembles materials for court; orders supplies; provides training; conducts tours, and responds to telephone calls. Must possess knowledge of principles, theories, and methodology of forensic comparison microscopy; knowledge of principles, procedures, and protocols of gunshot residue analyses; detailed knowledge of firearm mechanisms; and skill in identifying possible source of specific markings on evidence
- GS-10: In addition to the above duties and requirements, performs complex scientific examinations; administers and manages assigned evidence; distributes evidence; conducts assessments of case status in examiner’s absence and ensures continued management of cases; performs full range of photographic tasks; identifies and assesses new equipment; identifies and acquires technical resources; assists examiners in publication and revision of specialized manuals; and accompanies examiners to crime scenes. Must possess extensive knowledge of principles, theories, and methodology of forensic comparison microscopy; comprehensive knowledge of principles, procedures, and protocols of gunshot resides analyses; in-depth knowledge of photographic, instrumental, and chemical procedures used to examine evidence; detailed comprehensive knowledge concerning a myriad of firearm mechanisms; skills in the hands-on examination of tools and toolmarked surfaces; detailed knowledge of the rules of evidence; knowledge of laboratory safety practices; and skills in the development, use, and maintenance of computer print and digitized image databases
PHYSICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN
Firearms / Toolmarks Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-11. There is no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is primarily sedentary, but may require periods of lifting, standing, and bending
- Work is performed in a forensic firearms, toolmarks, and number restoration laboratory
- Works requires daily routine exposure to and work with firearms and live ammunition, as well as gunpowder and primers
- Must be willing to work irregular, odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Manages the Reference Firearms Collection (RFC)
- Manages the disposition of firearms sent to the Unit
- Serves as the RFC Coordinator
- Coordinates the taking of multiple digital images of each of the specimens in the RFC
- Identify and evaluate alternatives for imaging the reference collection’s specimens
- Establish liaison with other entities having large reference collections to arrange for imaging of specimens not in the FBI’s
collection
- Arrange for client laboratories to forward new specimens to the unit for classification
- Conduct training and provide demonstrations relating to digital imaging
- Be responsible for all matters relating to the RFC
- Maintains and updates property record database
- Collects and compiles technical and historical information relating to firearms maintained in the RFC
- Maintains liaison with firearm manufacturers and distributors
- Maintain liaison with other forensic firearms collections in other federal and military organizations to coordinate firearm property transfers
- Inventories submitted firearms
- Performs a check of the National Crime Information Center for any record of loss of theft of submitted firearms
- Ensures required documentation has been properly executed and meets legal and administrative requirements
- Ensures all required information is in the Disposition database
- Cooperates the use of firearms with the Quantico Gun Vault for undercover operations
- Provides appropriate firearms for training, display and ammunition testing purposes
- Schedules and observes the melting of firearms slated for destruction
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-11: Possess an in-depth knowledge of the RFC, including a broad knowledge of firearms and their components; thorough knowledge of digital imaging techniques, the DRUGFIRE system; CD-Rom technologies; the RFC database, and forensic examination techniques relating to firearm identification; detailed knowledge and skill in applying administrative principles and regulations in order to coordinate the distribution and maintenance of CD-Roms with forensic laboratories world-wide; detailed knowledge of regulations relating to forfeitures, abandonments, conversion of property to Bureau property, and undercover purchasing as it pertains to firearms; detailed knowledge of protocols and regulations pertaining to the destruction of firearms and ammunition; written an oral communication skills to prepare documentation and instructions; and conduct training in the RFC and related computer technologies
PHYSICAL SCIENTIST
Explosives Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in a laboratory setting involving regular, recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
- May be exposed to dangers associated with crime scene processing and/or the handling of explosive materials
- Work requires manual dexterity and flexibility
- May require lifting of objects up to 50 pounds or more
- Work involves walking, stretching, crawling, bending, and lifting
- Must be able to use tools and heavy machinery with proficiency
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Receives and delivers evidence to and from other laboratory components
- Receives training in the processing of evidence and inventories evidence
- Receives training in the handling of dangerous materials
- Provides routine support and receives training in research studies, explosives reconstruction; and/or other special projects
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts and practices of physical science; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment; instrumentation, and tools; knowledge of examination techniques and skill in applying established methods and procedures to provide technical information on evidence; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communication; knowledge of the policies, procedures, and organizational structure of the Laboratory; knowledge of safety practices, and knowledge of the procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a technical specialist in providing assistance to Forensic Examiners; performs routine to moderately complex technical examinations; receives and delivers evidence; conducts standard examinations and experiments utilizing well-defined methods; assists supervisor in crime scene processing provides basic instruction to lower grade employees; assists in training; conducts tours; receives and responds to telephone calls; independently carries out tests necessary to examine evidence; and assists senior personnel in research studies. Must also possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, concepts, and practices of physical science in order to analyze materials; knowledge in the use of appropriate scientific equipment; and knowledge of examination techniques and skill in applying established methods.
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a technical specialist in providing assistance to Forensic Examiners; performs difficult technical examinations; manages a large number of cases, some of which are high profile; is responsible for ensuring each case is managed and processed appropriately; receives and delivers evidence; modifies or adapts techniques in order to accomplish specific examinations; is assigned special projects; participates in research studies with senior personnel; conducts scientific studies and/or experiments; provides training to other personnel; conducts tours, and assists in crime scene processing. Must possess professional knowledge of principles, theories, concepts, and practices of physical science in order to analyze complex materials; thorough knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of Laboratory safety practices, and a thorough knowledge of procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-12: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a senior technical specialist in a forensic science discipline; provides assistance to Forensic Examiners in the examination of evidence; performs very complex technical examinations; evaluates methods and techniques currently used to determine deficiencies and needed improvements; proposes new or modified analytical procedures or techniques; tests new products; evaluates results of tests to determine validity and scientific significance; prepares detailed documentation; drafts manual changes, training manuals, or scientific papers; works on special projects; conducts studies and/or research; independently reconstructs and test materials; conducts scientific experiments; and provides training. Must possess professional knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts, and practices of physical science; and a thorough knowledge of a specialized forensic science discipline.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must meet either (A) the successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s (or higher) degree physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics or (B) a combination of education and experience/education equivalent to one of the majors shown in (A) above that includes at least 24 hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
In addition to the above, all applicants must have:
- One full year of graduate-level education or a bachelors degree with superior academic achievement, or one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 level. Specialized experience is defined as work in physical science performed in a laboratory setting.
Superior academic achievement is based on the following:
- (1) Class standing -- defined as applicants who are in the upper third of the graduating class in the college, university, or major subdivision, such as the College of Liberal Arts or the School of Business Administration, based on completed courses.
- (2) Grade Point Average (GPA) -- defined as applicants who have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0 (“B” or better) as recorded on their official transcript, or as computer based on 4 years of education, or as computed based o courses completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum; or 3.5 or higher out of a possible 4.0 (“B+” or better) based on the average of the required courses completed in the major field or the required courses in the major field completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum.
- (3) Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society.
PHYSICAL SCIENTIST
Trace Evidence Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-7, with promotional potential to a GS-12.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in a laboratory setting where there is potential for exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens
- Work requires manual dexterity, flexibility, and occasional considerable, strenuous physical exertion, including stretching, crawling, bending, and lifting of objects of up to 50 pounds
- Must be able to use tools and heavy machinery with proficiency
- Must follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- May be exposed to dangers associated with crime scene processing and/or handling of explosive materials
- Must travel as required
DUTIES
- Receives and delivers evidence to and from other laboratory components
- Provides support and receives training in research studies
- Inventories evidence
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-7: Professional knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts and practices of physical science; knowledge of characteristics and use of appropriate scientific equipment; knowledge of examination techniques and skill in applying established methods and procedures; knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of laboratory safety practices; and knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-9: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a technical specialist in a forensic science discipline and provides assistance in the examination of evidence; performs routine to moderately complex technical examinations; receives and delivers evidence; conducts standard examinations and experiments utilizing well-defined methods; assists in crime scene processing; assists in training; conducts tours; and assists in research studies. Must also possess knowledge of principles, theories, concepts, and practices of physical science; use of appropriate scientific equipment; knowledge of examination techniques; skill in oral and written communications; knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence; knowledge of laboratory safety procedures.
- GS-11: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a technical specialist and performs difficult technical examinations; manages a large number of cases; inventories evidence; prepares detailed laboratory notes; uses a variety of scientific equipment and technical tools to conduct examinations and experiments; uses ingenuity in modifying or adapting techniques in order to accomplish specific examinations; and assists supervisor in crime scene processing. Must possess thorough knowledge of laboratory scientific and administrative procedures; laboratory safety procedures; and of procedures used to collect and process evidence.
- GS-12: In addition to the above duties and requirements, serves as a senior technical specialist; performs very complex technical examinations; evaluates methods and techniques currently used to determine deficiencies; may draft manual changes, training manuals or papers for publication; is assigned special projects to support unit operations; conducts scientific studies/experiments and/or research. Must also possess skill in oral and written communications to provide critical information.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must possess either (A) a bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in either biological science, physical science, engineering, or mathematics that includes 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics or (B) a combination of education and experience. Education must be equivalent to one of the majors listed in (A) above that include at least 24 semester hours in biological science, physical science, and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- All applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience advising, administering, supervising or performing research or other professional and scientific work in any of the fields of science concerned with matter, energy, physical space, time, nature of physical measurement, and fundamental structural particles, and the nature of the physical environment.
Education may be substituted for specialized experienced as outlined below:
- GS-7: One full year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement.
- GS-9: Two full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a masters degree or equivalent graduate degree, e.g. LL.B. or J.D.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited education institution in the United States.
PROGRAM MANAGER FORENSIC SYSTEM
Forensic Science Systems Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation can take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
Position is a GS 14. Salary level is based on prior experience.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is typically performed in an office setting.
- Work is primarily sedentary.
- Frequent travel is required to meet with State and local crime laboratory personnel and law enforcement officials and/or to make presentations to professional conferences or group.
DUTIES
- Serve as manager of one or more Division programs which involve the development of forensic applications to be used by the FBI as well as by other forensic science laboratories throughout this country and in other countries. Some of these programs may include CODIS, NDIS, NIBIN/DRUGFIRE, EXPRESS, FIBERNET, and others. Responsible for planning, budgeting, directing and coordinating the activities of the system(s).
- Oversees the design, development, enhancement, and maintenance of complex databases.
- Coordinates formulation of policy regarding the program to ensure the computer system is developed, updated, and maintained in a way that allows for the collection, storage, and retrieval of forensic science objectives, performance metrics and staffing needs.
- Responsible for establishing standards and operating procedures for all agencies accessing the system.
- Determines the operational and policy constraints within which the system(s) will be developed, enhanced and deployed.
- Develops performance requirements for a National system, including the projected operational and expected lifetime of the system and growth limits.
- Develops the conceptual design for a National network communication system which would link all sites to each other for purposes of searching forensic science information.
- Responsible for developing programs to train State and local crime laboratory and law enforcement personnel in the application of the system.
- Responsible for writing or review of a reference manual and tutorial for the operation of the system.
- Manages contractors in the development of the software for the system(s). Responsible for writing statements of work and memoranda of understanding relating to development, enhancement, and/or maintenance of the system and development of a National network for system sites. Responsible for negotiations with contractor to ensure FBI requirements are met.
- Responsible for overseeing a multi-million dollar budget. Makes final decisions on the expenditures of funds. Serves as Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COTR) for programs and drafts budget requests for future years justifying requested funds.
- Prepare/conduct executive level presentations to State, Federal, and International government officials on relevant issues surrounding the operation of a National/International System.
- As required provides direct supervision to an Assistant Program Manager and/or Program Analyst(s).
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
.
- Mastery of management and administrative theory and practices to enable the program manager to direct and supervise the achievement of goals and objective for one or more nationwide automated systems.
- Experience in managing Federal programs including the planning of programs, knowledge of financial and budget requirements including the Congressional budget cycle, government contracting for computer-related support services, with a working knowledge of contracting regulations and procedures.
- Demonstrated knowledge of the theory and techniques of project management as applied to software development projects, including familiarity with the project life cycle and software life cycle.
- Experience preparing and conducting presentations to professional groups and/or organizations at the Federal, State or local level.
- Working knowledge of current computer technology, network communications software development and database packages as they may be applied to the development and implementation of forensic databases.
PHYSICAL SCIENTIST FORENSIC EXAMINER
Latent Print Operations Unit
- Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
- Entry level is GS-7 or GS-9, dependent on educational level and experience, with promotional opportunities through GS-14. While GS-7 and GS-9 are trainee positions, GS-11 through GS-14 are full performance positions. Some GS-14 positions have program responsibilities while others, to include the GS-15, are supervisory positions.
- The training program includes the history of personal identification; physiology of friction skin; court proceedings/legal aspects of the fingerprint science; methods for systems of fingerprint classification; methodology for examining friction ridge impressions; practical comparison exercises; developing and preserving latent prints; operation of special equipment such as lasers, forensic light sources and microscopes; automated fingerprint identification systems; crime scene matters; deceased identification techniques; and casework administration.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must complete training necessary for certification as a latent print examiner and sign a Forensic Examiner (FE) Training Agreement wherein the employee is required to remain in service as an FE for three times the length of time it took to become certified.
- Must be willing and able to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, holidays, and standby schedules.
- Must be willing to use protective equipment and work under hazardous conditions in a laboratory setting, which may involve regular, recurring exposure to hazardous materials, toxic substances, and blood borne pathogens.
- Must be willing and able to travel to remote areas, possibly being exposed to contagious diseases.
- Must be willing to travel frequently, usually on short notice, to conduct crime scene examinations and to testify in court.
- Must be willing and able to withstand intense professional and personal scrutiny when representing the FBI as an expert witness.
- Must be willing and able to lift heavy objects.
DUTIES
- Serves as an FE responsible for planning, coordinating, directing, and conducting latent print examinations.
- Inventory, examine, and perform comprehensive latent print analyses of varied items of evidence.
- Locate, identify, and preserve items of evidence from crimes scenes for examination.
- Examine fingers, hands, and feet of deceased individuals for friction skin impressions.
- Respond to scenes of mass fatalities to assist in identification efforts.
- Prepare and furnish oral and written reports.
- Present necessary expert testimony in court.
REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must be a United States citizen.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must either (A) successfully complete of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor (or higher) degree in biology, bio-logical sciences, chemistry, physical anthropology, or physical science which includes a minimum of 24 semester hours in the above areas or (B) a combination of education and experience. Education must be equivalent to one of the majors shown in (A) above that includes at least 24 semester hours in the above areas, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
- GS-7: Must have one full year of graduate-level education or superior academic achievement in one of the above disciplines or have a bachelors degree and one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least a GS-5.
- GS-9: Must have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or masters or equivalent graduate degree in one of the above disciplines or a bachelors degree and one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least a GS-7.
- GS-12: Must have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is directly related to work in a Laboratory environment performing examinations in the above specialties.
PHYSICAL SECURITY SPECIALIST HAZMAT
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-9, with promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in offices and classrooms
- Work is also performed at sites of investigations where there is potential for exposure to hazardous materials (HAZMAT), including lethal chemicals or biological agents, which require protective measures
- Work may be conducted in confined spaces
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Work may also require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, carrying of heavy objects, and collection and processing of evidence in a hazardous materials environment
- Work may require wearing protective gear while engaging in HAZMAT activity, which requires rapid walking, bending, stooping, lifting, crawling, and climbing
DUTIES
- Serves as an advanced developmental role, accompanying senior personnel in responding to incidents involving HAZMAT and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)
- Writes standard operational strategies and contingency plans for site management and evidence handling during routine HAZMAT evidence recovery operations
- Maintains contact with local emergency responders
- Assists in reviewing pending legislation and regulations concerning HAZMAT issues
- Assists in the development, revision, and presentation of training courses
- Provides assistance in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Field Operations Guides (FOGs), and other policies for Bureau HAZMAT operations
- Must travel as required, often on short notice
- Must provide testimony
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-9: Assists in the safety and logistics aspects of HAZMAT evidence recovery operations. Must have a practical knowledge of commonly known HAZMATs, including chemical, nuclear, and biological warfare agents; knowledge of established emergency response procedures of federal and local emergency response agencies and systems; basic knowledge of educational, instructional methodologies, and HAZMAT training requirements to assist in the development of courses; knowledge of emergency medical procedures and OSHA medical standards; knowledge of logistical procedures; and provides emergency medical services as needed.
- GS-11: Responds to incidents involving HAZMAT and WMD; assists in providing for the safety of law enforcement personnel and security of critical forensic evidence; implements operational strategies and contingency plans for site management and evidence handing; liaises with local emergency responders; implements safety procedures; coordinates with medical personnel to assure safety of personnel; assists in reviewing pending legislation and regulations concerning HAZMAT issues; assists in the development of SOPs and FOGs; assists in the development, revision, and presentation of educational systems; and serves as a training instructor. Must possess knowledge of a wide range of HAZMATs, including chemical, nuclear, and biological warfare agents, security requirements to protect HAZMAT evidence from loss, and its effects on personnel; knowledge of established emergency response procedures; thorough knowledge of emergency medical procedures and OSHA medical standards; and knowledge of logistical procedures.
- GS-12: Responds to incidents involving HAZMAT and WMD; assists
and provides input for training exercises; implements operational
strategies and contingency plans for site management and evidence
handling; maintains liaison with local emergency responders; coordinates
with medical personnel to ensure safety of on-site personnel; assists
in reviewing pending legislation and regulations concerning HAZMAT
issues; assists in the development of SOPs and FOGs; and reviews
and ensures the appropriate integration of new subject matter materials
into training activities. Must possess knowledge of a wide range
of HAZMATs, including chemical, nuclear, and biological warfare agents,
security requirements to protect HAZMAT evidence from loss, and its
effects on personnel; knowledge of established emergency response
procedures; thorough knowledge of emergency medical procedures and
OSHA medical standards; and knowledge of logistical procedures.
- GS-13: Develops operational strategies and prepares contingency plans for site management and evidence handling; provides advice and consultation to Bureau managers in assigned program area; reviews pending legislation and regulations concerning HAZMAT issues; assists in the development of SOPs and FOGs; and serves as training instructor.
EDUCATION
- Education may be substituted for experience as listed below when such provides applicant with knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform work of the position.
- Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
- GS-9: Must have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education or masters or equivalent graduate degree (such as LL.D. or J.D.).
- GS-12: Must have three years of progressively higher level graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Applicants must meet all the specialized experience in all the following areas:
- Operational experience with a fire service or law enforcement agency which included operational hazardous materials response.
- A combination of training or experience with respect to the Incident Command System operations (ICS), hazardous materials operations, confined space operations, trenching and excavation operations and public safety special operations.
- Certification in firefighting and emergency medical services.
- Work experience and training with hazardous materials such as chemical, biological or radiological detection, hazard analysis, sampling, evidentiary practices, over-packing, transportation, storage, and related safety issues.
PHYSICAL SECURITY SPECIALIST NUCLEAR
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is performed in offices and classrooms
- Work is also performed at sites of investigations where there is potential for exposure to hazardous materials (HAZMAT), including lethal chemicals, nuclear or biological agents, or radioactive materials
- Work may be conducted in confined spaces
- Work may require wearing protective gear while engaging in HAZMAT activity, which requires rapid walking, bending, stooping, lifting, crawling, and climbing
- Work may also require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, carrying of heavy objects, and collection and processing of evidence in a hazardous materials environment
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must be willing to travel as needed, often on short notice
DUTIES
- Serves as a Radiological and Nuclear Operations Specialist and technical authority for Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) incidents, operations, and training exercises
- Prepares contingency and operational plans for nuclear materials/WMD-related response and evidence recovery operations
- Deploys to potential crisis sites and national special events as part of a hazardous materials response team
- Assists the crime scene manager
- Maintains liaison with Department of Energy (DOE) personnel
- Provides input in developing strategic plans, budget, and policy development
- Monitors field-wide training
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-13: Must possess a thorough knowledge of the theories, principles, and applications of disciplines in the areas of engineering, operations, and physical science fields; and a thorough knowledge of nuclear operations and radiological controls to provide expert consultation and assessments of crime scenes, and a thorough knowledge of nuclear/WMD incidents and related evidence recovery operations. Provides expert technical advice to Bureau supervisors and managers; assists in developing policy and procedures that will apply to nuclear crisis management; knowledge of federal radiological response plans, including health an safety safeguards; complete medical and physical requirements in order to operate protective garments; conducts liaison nationwide with emergency response groups, which requires a high degree of oral and written communication skills.
- Applicants must meet the Selective Placement Factor listed below and have at least one year of specialized experience listed below that has equipped them with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience is related to the work of the position and is equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR
Applicants are required to have a thorough knowledge of nuclear engineering, operations, safeguards, and security; and health physics and radiological controls as they relate to incidents and crime scenes involving nuclear/radiological materials.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience in responding to incidents and/or operations involving nuclear/radiological materials, providing expert advice to all levels of management regarding policies and regulations involving nuclear incidents/operations, operational readiness and nuclear crisis management; experience in forming and maintaining liaison with professional groups/persons in the nuclear science/engineering/operations field.
PHYSICAL SECURITY SPECIALIST NUCLEAR
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14 and has no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is generally performed in an office setting
- Work is also performed at sites of investigations where there is potential for exposure to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) agents
- Work may be conducted in confined spaces
- Work may require wearing protective gear while engaging in HAZMAT activity, which requires rapid walking, bending, stooping, lifting, crawling, and climbing
- Work may also require long periods of standing, stooping, bending, carrying of heavy objects, and collection and processing of evidence in a hazardous materials environment
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must be willing to travel as needed, often on short notice
DUTIES
- Serves as a Nuclear Program Manager and technical authority for WMD incidents and operations involving nuclear/radiological materials
- Provides a high level of technical and administrative program management
- Develops annual and multi-year strategic program plans, budget and policy development, and provides input regarding staffing needs
- Provides justification for major equipment and facilities
- Serves as a recognized expert and advisor regarding nuclear/radiological incidents
- Directs forensic teams at site of incident
- Ensures protection and security of critical forensic evidence and its safe delivery
- Ensures safety of law enforcement personnel
- Participates in conference calls and threat assessments with the National Security Division and the Department of Energy (DOE)
- Devises agency-wide guidelines and policies that apply to nuclear crisis management
- Oversees work of subordinate specialists
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-14: Mastery of advanced knowledge in the theories, principles, and applications of several professional disciplines in engineering, management, operations and physical sciences, such as nuclear engineering, operations, safeguards and security, health physics and radiological controls as they relate to WMD incidents and crime scenes involving nuclear/radiological materials; and knowledge of nuclear operations and radiological controls to provide expert consultation assessments of crime scenes. Must possess detailed knowledge of federal radiological response plans, including health and safety standards; thorough knowledge of managerial principles, practices, and procedures in order to plan, organize, control, direct, and delegate work assignments to team members. Provides expert technical advice to Bureau supervisors; expert knowledge of nuclear and/or WMD incidents and related evidence recovery operations in order to coordinate with outside entities; Must be able to prepare clear, concise, well-organized reports, and technical procedures.
- Applicants must meet the Selective Placement Factor listed below and have at least one year of specialized experience listed below that has equipped them with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience is related to the work of the position and is equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR
Applicants are required to have a thorough knowledge of nuclear engineering, operations, safeguards, and security; and health physics and radiological controls as they relate to incidents and crime scenes involving nuclear/radiological materials.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience in responding to incidents and/or operations involving nuclear/radiological materials, providing expert advice to all levels of management regarding policies and regulations involving nuclear incidents/operations, operational readiness and nuclear crisis management; experience in forming and maintaining liaison with professional groups/persons in the nuclear science/engineering/operations field.
RESEARCH BIOLOGIST
Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances and neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
Positions are from the GS 12 through GS 14 salary range. Salary level is based on prior experience.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work is primarily sedentary.
- Some walking, bending, stooping and lifting is required. Occasionally long periods of time may be spent standing.
- Research is performed which requires regular and recurring contact with chemical substances, which are flammable and toxic. Appropriate safety precautions and protective clothing must be worn.
DUTIES
- Serves as a specialist in a biological science field, such as human DNA analysis, plant and animal DNA analysis, molecular biology, molecular genetics, and immunology
- Performs specialized and fundamental research projects
- Reports results of research progress to peer review committee
- Reviews scientific publications
- Evaluates new instruments for biological analysis
- Trains other Laboratory personnel in use of equipment
- Writes lectures and prepares training materials
- Instructs personnel in forensic biology methods
- Serves as a member of a peer review committee
- Evaluates research reports presented to the committee
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen.
- All applicants must possess a doctoral degree in one or more of the following disciplines biological sciences, agriculture, molecular biology, immunology, chemistry, natural resource management, or a related discipline, such as natural or forensic science. Selectee may be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-12: Must possess professional knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of a specialty area of biological science as acquired through graduate training and several years of original practical work in research laboratories; technical knowledge and independent skill in the calibration and operation of sophisticated research instruments; professional knowledge of a variety of scientific disciplines which closely relate to specialty area; and knowledge of audio-visual aids, materials, and experience in media production in order to present difficult material in a clear and fundamental manner.
- In addition to a doctoral degree, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-11). Specialized experience is work in a biological science field that involves scientific inquiry or investigation. Education may be substituted for specialized experience if applicant has a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited education institution in the United States.
- GS-13: In addition to the above duties and responsibilities, must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-12). Must formulate and conduct a systematic attack on research problems of considerable scope and complexity; modifies and adapts standard methods and procedures of forensic biological analysis; performs experiments and evaluates findings; writes research reports; applies highly sophisticated instrumental analytical techniques to research projects; evaluates new instruments; acts in consultative capacity; and instructs other laboratory personnel in biological forensic research methods. Must possess a mastery of principles, theories, and practices of a specialty area of biological science to conduct research and serve as a laboratory technical authority; a professional knowledge of a variety of scientific disciplines; have a good knowledge of FBI field operations relating to the gathering and preservation of evidence, and the ability to conduct independent research based on superior professional credentials acquired through a doctorate degree in biological science and several years of post-doctorate experience and training. Possession of a master’s degree in a scientific field, several years of practical experience in the specialty area and documented contributions to the field at this level of work could supplant the requirement of doctoral education.
- GS-14: In addition to the above duties and responsibilities, serves as a leading research scientist; identifies areas of need or inadequacy in current analytical and interpretational protocols and proposes research study paths; comprehensively tests new methods to ensure their reliability and analytical limits; makes significant contributions to the scientific literature of the specialty area; serves as a technical authority in a biological science field; interacts closely with members of the Laboratory Division’s case working units to ensure research study aims will be tailored to needs and limitations of the units; organizes and manages the activities of supporting personnel; and provides assignments, guidance, and reviews work of subordinate scientists. Must possess mastery knowledge in one or more specialty areas of biological science sufficient to enable the selectee to carry out or direct, inherently complex or difficult studies; a high level of research ability and be able to interpret research findings; skill in effecting the integration of new methodologies; and mastery of scientific disciplines and knowledge of management and administrative principles. The proficiency to accomplish research at this level can be developed only through acquisition of a doctoral degree in a biological science discipline and several years of post-doctoral experience. However, possession of a master’s degree in a chemical, biological, or physical science, several years of practical experience in the specialty area, and documented contributions to the field at this level of work could supplant the requirement of doctoral education.
EDUCATION
- Applicants must possess a doctoral degree in one or more of the following disciplines: biological sciences, agriculture, molecular biology, immunology, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related discipline such as natural or forensic science.
- In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
- GS-12: Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as professional work in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology that involves scientific inquiry or investigation, or research-type exploratory development of a creative or advances scientific nature.
RESEARCH CHEMIST
Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-11, with promotional potential to a GS-14.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Work may involve regular and recurring exposure to chemical substances which are highly flammable and toxic
- Work requires walking, bending, stooping, and light lifting with occasionally long periods of standing
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must wear protective clothing
DUTIES
- Serves as a specialist in chromatographic, spectrographic, instrumental or biochemical analysis
- Performs specialized and fundamental research projects
- Modifies and adapts standard methods and procedures of forensic chemical analysis
- Writes research reports
- Applies highly sophisticated instrumental analytical techniques to chemistry research
- Maintains liaison with scientific community
- Provides instruction
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
Job requirements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- GS-11: Professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, practices and established methodology; skill in operating and calibrating analytical instruments; ability to interpret analytical data; skill in modifying standard procedures and methods; experience in utilization of various analytical instruments; and possess a doctoral degree in chemical science.
- GS-12: In addition to the above requirements, formulates and conducts a systematic attack on research problems of considerable scope and complexity; modifies and adapts standard methods and procedures of forensic chemical analysis; performs experiments and evaluates findings; writes research reports; applies highly sophisticated instrumental analytical techniques to chemistry research projects; provides training; occasionally serves as a member of the Research Council; and is responsible for reviewing proposed research projects. Must possess professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, practices and established methodology sufficient to perform a full range of duties; and ability to conduct independent research based on superior professional credentials acquired through a doctoral degree in a chemical science and several years of experience in a chemistry laboratory.
- GS-13: In addition to the above requirements, serves as a specialist in chromatographic, spectrographic, and spectrometric instrumental analysis in the laboratory; performs specialized and fundamental research projects; modifies and adapts standard methods and procedures of forensic chemical analysis; devises alternative methods or procedures; performs experiments and evaluates findings; reports research findings of research projects to the Laboratory Research Council; reviews current scientific publications relevant to the Laboratory’s analytical methods; instructs crime laboratory personnel; reviews current methods and procedures to determine deficiencies or needed improvements; and evaluates new instruments in chemical analysis. Must possess a mastery of principles, theories, and practices of chemistry; knowledge of FBI regulations; and the ability to conduct independent research based on superior professional credentials acquired through a doctorate degree in chemistry and several years of post-doctorate experience and training.
- GS-14: In addition to the above requirements, serves as leading research scientist; conducts studies either independently or as the leader of a research team; serves as a member of peer review groups; serves as a technical authority; keeps the appropriate case working unit personnel informed of research study progress; organizes and manages the activities of supporting personnel; manage progress of extramural research contracts; and trains other personnel in use of new equipment. Must possess a mastery of a specialty area of chemistry or related field; interpret research findings; an understanding of case management; mastery of scientific disciplines and knowledge of management principles; ability to lead other professional personnel; and a proficiency to accomplish research through acquisition of a doctoral degree in chemistry or related science and several years of post-doctoral experience supported by documented contributions to the field.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must possess a doctoral degree in one or more of the following disciplines: biological sciences, agriculture, molecular biology, immunology, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related discipline such as natural or forensic science.
- All applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
- GS-11: Applicants must have Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as professional work in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology that involves scientific injury or investigation, or research-type exploratory development of a creative or advanced scientific nature.
SUPERVISORY CHEMIST INSTRUMENT MANAGER
Chemistry Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in an office setting.
DUTIES
- Oversees the Instrument Operation and Support Subunit
- Is responsible for overall management of the instrument program
- Ensures overall management of the unit’s complex scientific instruments, including repair and maintenance
- Determines instrument and equipment needs of the unit and justifies the expenditures
- Assigns work and delegates responsibility among subordinates
- Reviews completed work for compliance
- Evaluates personnel and recommends awards and disciplinary action
- Prepares written communications
- Participates in and/or organizes conferences, workshops, and seminars
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-14: Responsible for all instrument documentation and service records; writes manuals and protocols. Serves as lead developer, programmer, and manager of the unit’s instrument database; is responsible for all instruments in the unit; serves as an expert in the use of various scientific techniques; conducts applied research projects; trains unit examiners and chemists in the operation and care of all instrumentation; and assists in training other personnel as necessary. Serves as the contact point for unit to refer cases of instrument performance problems and malfunction; attends scientific meetings and training courses; and presents technical papers. Must possess knowledge of the principles of chemistry, demonstrated by the combination of education and competence in the field; highly advanced skill and professional knowledge in the troubleshooting, repairing, and operation of complex analytical instrumentation; thorough knowledge of and skill in operation, programming, and maintenance of a wide variety of computer hardware, software, and operating systems; and skill in computer database development; and a general mastery of the principles, theories, and practices of analytical chemistry.
EDUCATION
- Applicants must meet either (A) successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelors degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 hours of physics or (B) a combination of education and experience with course work equivalent to a major as shown in (A) above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- In addition to the above, all applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Applicants must also have two full years of progressively higher level graduate education, or masters, or equivalent graduate degree in one of the above disciplines or a bachelors degree.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform work in the occupation, and is comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of a full 4-year course of study with a major in the appropriate field.
Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if the applicant can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
- Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is defined as experience which is in or directly related to work in a laboratory environment by (1) performing complex analyses utilizing a wide range of analytical methods, including sophisticated instrumentation in general chemistry (2) professional knowledge of chemical principles, theories, concepts, and practices and, (3) experience applying established scientific and administrative analytical techniques to provide accurate technical information.
SUPERVISORY BIOLOGIST FORENSIC EXAMINER
DNA Analysis Unit 1
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in an office setting
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
GS-14: Duties and responsibilities for this position require the employee to plan, manage, direct, and coordinate forensic science activities in a highly specialized field; directs and coordinates scientific and highly technical work, which impacts the law enforcement community; work managed directly effects the Laboratory’s ability to conduct forensic examinations of evidence and the outcome of law enforcement investigations throughout the world; provides daily work assignments to subordinates; establishes priorities and sets deadlines; makes decisions regarding priorities; identifies training needs of employees and arranges for such training; researches and implements ways to improve productivity within the Unit; resolves employee grievances or serious employee problems; and prepares employee evaluations and recommends personnel actions.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must either (A) successfully complete successfully complete of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor (or higher) degree in biological science, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related discipline appropriate to the position or (B) a combination of education and experience equivalent to one of the majors shown in (A) above plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities requires to perform work in the occupation.
- Applicant must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
SUPERVISORY BIOLOGIST DNA PROGRAM MANAGER
DNA Analysis Unit 1
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-14, with no promotional potential.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in an office setting
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
GS-14: Duties and responsibilities for this position require the employee to serve as supervisor and program manager of the Unit’s Quality Assurance Program (QA) operations. Responsible for overall management of the QA Program, including future planning, staffing, budgeting, scheduling, and evaluation, and coordination of program activities; directs and coordinates highly technical work; develops major aspects of key forensic science policy and program development for the FBI; has primary responsibility for planning, organizing, training, and directing a variety of QA functions for the Unit; ensures all aspects of the Division’s QA, quality control, and safety practices are followed by Unit staff. Work conducted effects the outcome of law enforcement investigations worldwide. Employee coordinates all Unit activities in support of the QA and safety programs; plans and directs programs for evaluation of QA and quality control systems in use within the Unit; directs and schedules periodic QA audits; coordinates, directs, and reviews Unit standard operating procedures; responsible for managing and supporting Unit’s evidence management functions; coordinates and directs proficiency testing for Unit personnel; ensures all administrative, budgetary, equipment, and space needs are met for the programs; manages all contracts and contract employees within the programs; assigns work and reviews work for completeness; prepares employee evaluations; recommends disciplinary actions as necessary; and prepares written communications.
EDUCATION
- All applicants must either (A) successfully complete successfully complete of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor (or higher) degree in biological science, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or a related discipline appropriate to the position or (B) a combination of education and
experience equivalent to one of the majors shown in (A) above plus appropriate experience or additional education.
- The quality of the combination of education and experience must be sufficient to demonstrate the applicant possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities requires to perform work in the occupation.
- Applicant must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level.
- Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements if you can show the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States.
VISUAL INFORMATION SPECIALIST
Special Projects Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-11, and has promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must successfully complete training
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Work requires sitting at a computer or drafting table
- Work may require physical exertion with moderate everyday risks or discomforts typical of crime scenes, including wearing of protective clothing
- Must work outdoors in high and low temperature extremes and in adverse weather
- Must wear special clothing when working in areas occupied by snakes or insects
- Must endure long periods of walking, standing, and bending
- Lifting of moderate weight is required
DUTIES
- Plan, design, develop and coordinate the production of two dimensional visual materials, such as illustrations, photographs, maps, charts, artist conceptions, and combinations thereof for trial use
- Make detailed, fact-finding surveys at crime scenes
- Interview witnesses, officials, and law enforcement officers
- Sketch crime scenes and surrounding areas
- Design and develop imaginative and creative visuals for use as briefing aids in top level Bureau conferences, White House briefings, Congressional hearings, and conferences with other government agencies
- Must present court testimony as necessary
- Meet with outside vendors or attend trade shows
- Prepare artist composites
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-12: Plan, design, develop and coordinate the production of two dimensional visual materials, such as illustrations, photographs, maps, charts, artist conceptions, and combinations thereof for trial use; meet with case agents and attorneys; plan and conduct detailed fact-finding surveys at crime scenes; interview witnesses, officials, and law enforcement personnel; interview witnesses who may be under hypnosis; coordinate and oversee work of lower grade employees; take measurements and make sketches of crime scenes; direct photographic coverage; prepare difficult visual materials in final form; prepare correspondence; testify in legal proceedings; design and develop imaginative and creative visuals for use as briefing aids in top level Bureau conferences, White House briefings, Congressional hearings, and conferences with other government agencies; and meet with vendors; participate in research studies; and assemble composite facial reconstruction of unknown subjects. Must also possess extensive knowledge of design concepts, visual materials and components; skill in interviewing; knowledge of layout and artistic design of charts, presentations, and publications; have knowledge of rules of evidence and courtroom procedures to qualify as an expert witness; and possess comprehensive knowledge of computer graphic technology.
- GS-13: Serves as an authoritative specialist; works with anthropologists, medical examiners, and doctors to identify remains; provides training; prepares images of missing children and fugitives; prepares composite images; provides expertise and guidance to case agents and attorneys; and oversees sensitive Bureau publications. Must also possess in-depth and extensive knowledge of composite art and interview techniques; human facial and skeletal structures; two and three dimensional facial reconstruction procedures and techniques; aging processes; manual and automated reconstruction methodologies; photographic retouching; illustrating procedures, techniques, and methods; graphic arts; typography, crime scene diagramming; mechanical/engineering drawing; must have thorough knowledge of Bureau regulations, policies, and procedures as they pertain to work assignments and travel related functions; must possess a thorough knowledge of proper crime scene analysis procedures relative to locating, plotting, and marking of physical evidence; obtaining documentable crime scene photography and handling of evidence related to skeletal remains; ensure compliance with applicable Bureau and Department of Justice regulations plan, design, develop and coordinate the production of two and three dimensional visual materials, illustrations, photographs, maps, charts, artist conceptions, and combinations thereof for trial use; possess knowledge of financial crime methodologies, investigations, and prosecutions; knowledge of animation creation, theory, function, and application, as well as knowledge of video creation and production techniques; and in-depth knowledge of architectural requirements and standards, architectural and engineering drawing, architectural symbols and the ability to analyze architectural blueprints.
EDUCATION
Education may be substituted for experience at the GS-11 level only, if the applicant has completed 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education or possesses a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree with major study in commercial art, fine arts, art history, industrial design, architecture, drafting, interior design, photography, visual communications, or other fields related to the position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
Specialized experience is outlined below:
- GS-9: Applicant must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 level. Experience must be in the actual type of work for which application is made. Unpaid experience is creditable, provided the work done was of a quality level and demonstrated the ability required for the position.
- GS-12: Applicant must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level. See definition of specialized experience below.
- GS-13: Applicant must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level. See definition of specialized experience below:
Specialized experience is defined as experience in the digital manipulation/retouching of photographs; handling requests for 2-D and 3-D facial reconstructions; preparation of artist composite drawings; preparation of digital facial age progressions; preparation of hand drawn or digital post mortem facial images; conducting witness/victim interviews; layout and design of publications; procedures and processes of off-set printing, both two and four color; creation of computer imagery; and electronic and digitally interactive presentations. Must possess a working knowledge of a majority of the following software programs: Adobe Photoshop; Macromedia FreeHand; Adobe Illustrator; 3-D StudioMax or Maya; Internet Explorer/Netscape; Macromedia Dreamweaver; Macromedia Fireworks; Macromedia Flash; Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word), and WordPerfect. Applicant must be able to use this knowledge and experience to successfully communicate information compiled and/or created.
VISUAL INFORMATION SPECIALIST EXHIBITS
Special Projects Unit
Applicants are thoroughly investigated prior to FBI employment. The background investigation could take up to one year and encompasses contacting former and current employers, references, social acquaintances, neighbors, as well as reviewing school, credit, arrest, medical, and military records. The investigation also includes a polygraph examination and a drug test. The information is then assessed at FBI Headquarters for a final decision as to offering employment.
This position is a GS-11, and has promotional potential to a GS-13.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Must successfully complete training
- Must be willing to work irregular and/or odd-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Must work with moderate everyday risks or discomforts typical of crime scenes
- Must work crime scenes which involve exposure to insects, snakes, traffic and high crime
- Must work outdoors in high and low temperature extremes and in adverse weather
- Must wear bulky clothing to avoid exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Must endure considerable physical exertion while surveying terrain or while climbing structures, as well as long periods of walking, standing, and bending
DUTIES
- Serves as an assistant to a Visual Information Specialist
- Plans, designs, and develops complex three dimensional exhibits and trial models for use in criminal cases
- Meets and interviews law enforcement officials and witnesses
- Reviews work of and assists in the training of lower grade specialists
- Sketch crime scenes and surrounding areas
- Plans, designs, and fabricates surveillance equipment concealment devices
- Plans, designs, develops, and constructs two and three dimensional exhibits and special equipment
- Designs and constructs awards
- Maintains cost statistics and inventory
- Must present court testimony
- Must travel as required
REQUIREMENTS
- Must be a United States citizen
- GS-11: Knowledge of structural design concepts; knowledge of production processes; knowledge of and skill in using wood, plastic, and metal shop fabrication equipment; knowledge of geometry and trigonometry; knowledge of shop safety; knowledge of basic architectural standards and skill in architectural drawing; knowledge in reading architectural, engineering and topographic blueprints; skill in interviewing witnesses, and writing skills
- GS-12: Plans, designs, and develops trial models; travel as required; meets with law enforcement officials and attorneys; interview witnesses and investigative personnel; take appropriate measurements, sketches, and notes; coordinates and oversees production of trial models; testify as an expert witness; plans, designs, and fabricates complex surveillance equipment concealment devices; conducts research; designs unique and special awards for high ranking officials; develops original designs; plans, designs, and develops highly technical special equipment for the Evidence Response Team Unit (ERTU) and the FBI Laboratory; reviews lower grade specialists work; provides training; and attends trade shows and technical conferences
- GS-13: Serves as an authoritative expert in planning, design, and development of the most complex and unique three dimensional products; travel as necessary; plans, designs, and develops trial models; works as a technical expert in the field of crime scene reconstruction; interviews crime victims; FBI personnel, witnesses, and prosecutors; works with the ERTU; oversees commercial survey teams; determines best design and fabrication methods to portray the crime scene as evidence in court; designs and fabricates explosive device models; assures quality standards are maintained; composes correspondence; testifies as an expert witness; designs and develops three-dimensional scale models; plans and designs one-of-a-kind equipment for the FBI; develops concealment devices; design, fabricate, and present exhibits at conferences; coordinates the use of vendor services; assists management in compiling and recording work performance statistics; provides training, guidance, oversight and assistance to lower level specialists; participates in New Agent and in-service training.
EDUCATION
Education may be substituted for specialized experience as outlined below:
- GS-11: Must have three full years of progressively higher level graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a related field, such as commercial art, industrial design, architecture, drafting, interior design, photography, or visual communication.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE
All applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. Specialized experience is defined as experience in digital collection methods, such as surveying and equipment used to plan, coordinate and produce Computer Aided Design (CAD) drawings and/or 3-D physical scale models; a wide range of exhibit design and fabrication shop industrial equipment concepts, principles, and practices, CAD and computer graphic programs.
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