Job Role Description

Medical > Forensic Analyst

Salary National Average

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59980.0000 84230.0000 109710.0000

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Short Description:

A Forensic Analyst, also known as a Forensic Scientist or Forensic Examiner, is a professional who plays a crucial role in the investigation of crimes. They use scientific techniques and methods to collect, analyze, and interpret physical evidence from crime scenes to assist law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system in solving cases and establishing facts.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Collect, preserve, and document physical evidence from crime scenes, ensuring its integrity and chain of custody.
  • Analyze various types of evidence, such as DNA, firearms, drugs, toxicology, and trace evidence, using specialized laboratory equipment.
  • Document findings and prepare detailed reports for use in criminal investigations and legal proceedings.
  • Provide expert testimony in court, explaining scientific findings and their relevance to a case.
  • Collaborate with law enforcement, detectives, and other forensic professionals to piece together the circumstances of a crime.
  • Maintain and calibrate forensic equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results.
  • Stay current with advancements in forensic science and technology to enhance investigative methods.
  • Participate in cold case investigations and the identification of missing persons.
  • Assist in identifying unknown victims and suspects through forensic analysis.
  • Work in accordance with established forensic protocols, ethical standards, and legal requirements.

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's or master's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field; some positions may require a Ph.D.
  • Analytical: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for the precise analysis of evidence.
  • Forensic Software: Proficiency in using specialized laboratory equipment and forensic software.
  • Forensic Techniques: Knowledge of forensic techniques, protocols, and best practices.
  • Communication: Excellent communication and report-writing skills for presenting findings in a clear and understandable manner.
  • Attention to Detail: Ability to handle and document evidence with strict attention to detail.
  • Scientific Data: Expertise in the interpretation of scientific data and its application to criminal investigations.
  • Compliance: Compliance with ethical and legal standards in the field of forensic science, including maintaining the chain of custody and ensuring the quality and reliability of results.

Job Zones

  • Title: Job Zone Five Extensive Preparation Needed
  • Education: Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
  • Related Experience: Extensive skills, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. 
  • Job Training: Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, or training.
  • Job Zone Examples: These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. 
  • Specific Vocational Preparation in years: 4-7 years preparation (8.0 and above)

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