FORENSIC SCIENCE REGIONAL LABORATORY MANAGER 53051

07/01/94 A

This is a managerial level class in the Forensic Science Management series responsible for managing the technical and administrative activities of a Division of Forensic Science regional laboratory. Positions in this class are responsible for managing all activities of the laboratory to include developing and implementing laboratory policies and procedures; directing forensic examination operations; recommending the allocation of staff and resources; and managing the fiscal and administrative activities of the laboratory. This class is distinguished from the Forensic Section Chief by the added responsibilities of managing a laboratory which is both geographically removed from the central office and of such size and complexity as to require the use of subordinate laboratory supervisors. It is distinguished from the Forensic Science Program Manager by the latter's responsibility for directing specialized forensic programs of statewide scope.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty, requiring the management and coordination of the functions of a forensic regional laboratory. The work typically involves directing laboratory operations; developing laboratory policies and procedures; providing evidential support and consultations to law enforcement officers and criminal justice agency representatives; approving and recommending the purchase of services, supplies, equipment, and petty cash expenditures; approving leases and contracts; developing estimates of budget needs; preparing statistical data on laboratory operations and expenditures; establishing and maintaining a quality assurance program; coordinating laboratory activities with central office staff; consulting with and providing advice to laboratory users regarding available services, interpretations of laboratory results, and problems associated with requests for services; supervising, training, and evaluating employees; developing employee performance standards; recommending hiring and disciplinary actions; and overseeing the maintenance of the laboratory building, grounds, and equipment.

Supervision Given: Supervises subordinate forensic laboratory supervisors.

Supervision Received: Receives administrative direction from the Forensic Science Assistant Director. Positions are expected to independently manage the assigned laboratory.

Scope: Plans, develops, and manages all aspects of a forensic regional laboratory. The effective management of the laboratory operations and staff affects the accuracy and reliability of forensic services provided to law enforcement officials, attorneys, and courts in the region served.

Impact of Actions: Effective performance assures laboratory compliance with federal and state laws. Work affects the accuracy, volume, and timeliness of forensics examinations; the transfer of information between laboratory and service users; compliance with safety, quality control, and examination procedures; and the laboratory's credibility.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with law enforcement officers and administrators; criminal justice agency representatives; attorneys; the general public; and other state agencies' personnel, to interpret results and to provide information on laboratory policies and procedures.

Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of forensic disciplines and regulations; laboratory operations; applicable federal, state, agency, and division policies and procedures; business administrative principles and practices, including personnel and budget management; and the criminal justice system and rules of evidence.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to administer laboratory operations; plan and develop scientific laboratory programs; interpret scientific and administrative concepts; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; interpret and communicate results of forensic examinations; and supervise personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

License or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university wit course work in chemistry, forensic science, or a related field.

Level and Type of experience: Responsible experience in forensic laboratory administration and operations, supervision of scientific personnel, forensic examination and analysis, and administration of forensic training programs.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in July, 1994, as a result of a Forensic Science compensation study.