FORENSIC SCIENCE PROGRAM MANAGER 53052

07/01/94 A

This is a managerial level class in the Forensic Science Management series that directs daily technical and administrative operations and develops and administers specialized forensic programs that have unusual scientific or legal complexity, impact, and scope in the Division of Forensic Science. Positions in this class direct special statewide programs, such as the DNA program or breath alcohol program, and are responsible for planning and developing program services, evaluating programs, serving as state authority in program areas, developing regulations, and identifying and resolving potential legal challenges in program policies, procedures, operations; and oversee statistical evaluations, personnel transactions, budgetary reviews, and laboratory liaison activities. This class is distinguished from the Forensic Science Regional Laboratory Manager by its responsibility for directing specialized forensic programs of statewide scope.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty, requiring the application of scientific and administrative principles and practices to a complex program area in the central forensic laboratory. Positions in thais class typically evaluate program statistics; review and analyze technical and administrative programs; perform operational and strategic planning; review budgets; plan and coordinate the development of program services; oversee the resolution of operating problems; review proposed legislation to determine its effect on programs; assign program personnel as required; implement standards of conduct; approve purchases; supervise, train, and provide technical and administrative guidance to section chiefs; and recommend and implement changes in physical facilities, equipment, supplies, and personnel. These positions also serve as technical and administrative liaison with user agencies to convey information or resolve problems; serve as backup to the assistant division director; supervise research and evaluation of new methods and equipment; evaluate national and international programs; supervise program proficiency testing activities; supervise safety and security activities; develop and administer weekend, holiday, and emergency assignments; implement state and agency policies and procedures; and respond to general inquiries from court officials and the news media.

Supervision Given: Supervises scientific, technical, and office support personnel, including laboratory section chiefs and supervisors.

Supervision Received: Receives administrative direction from the Forensic Science Assistant Director, who provides guidance on general policy and priorities and is informed of program activities.

Scope: Work affects the technical and administrative operations of complex statewide law enforcement programs. Program services have a long-term effect on criminal court cases.

Impact of Actions: The work has a long-term effect on the validity and reliability of testing services, analyses, and research related to criminal investigations and law enforcement, and on the integrity and public perception of the programs administered.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with the general public; law enforcement officers and administrators; criminal justice agency representatives; attorneys; vendors and contractors; federal and state agencies; private industry; the Office of the Attorney General; academic institutions; and federal, state, and municipal forensic laboratories. Contacts involve providing information about technical and administrative policies and procedures, discussing related legislation or legal controversies, evaluating programs, and responding to general inquiries.

Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of forensic disciplines, scientific theory, principles, and practices, and laboratory operations in the program area directed; applicable federal, state, agency, and division policies and procedures; the criminal justice system and rules of evidence; and business administration principles and practices, including human resource and budget management.

Skills: None identified for this class.

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

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

License or Certification: None identified for this class.

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

Level and Type of Experience: Extensive experience in forensic laboratory administration and operations; supervision of scientific personnel; scientific testing and analysis; and administration of 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.