Public defender Jobs in Lubbock, TX

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

: Perform advanced (senior level) managerial work administering the activities of an agency’s business function, division, or laboratory section. Establish and maintain all laboratory records in accordance with specifications. Train, supervise, and evaluate employees in the respective forensic science discipline. Plan the work of the section, determining optimal utilization of resources and staffing within allocated operating and travel budgets. Work is performed under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Laboratory Section Supervisor II supervises approximately 10 to 20 employees.

The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position.

Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES :

1. Evaluate the work product by reviewing laboratory reports and work records; ensure quality work is performed, accurate reports are issued, and all quality assurance measures are being met.

2. Direct personnel to achieve section goals and fulfill user needs.

3. Assign casework.

4. Liaise and communicate with area law enforcement personnel and prosecuting attorneys to ascertain and ensure section meets user needs.

5. Oversee and ensure evidence is properly inventoried and secured, per strict guidelines; includes receipt, destruction, and return of evidence.

6. Provide input to management team for long range planning of the section, including the selection of new capital equipment, changes in needs for resources, and changes in objectives for the section.

7. Ensure that the section facility and equipment are adequately maintained.

8. Train and develop employees; and participate in interview / selection activities.

9. Oversee the procurement of equipment and supplies; ensure safety training is completed annually in compliance with state and federal law and that employees adhere to safety procedures.

10. Research and monitor new advances and techniques in forensic examination; keep staff apprised of same and adjust procedures accordingly.

11. Provide monthly laboratory activity information, as specified.

12. Coordinate the scheduling of laboratory staff for court appearances.

13. Attend work regularly and observe approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.

14. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS :

Education – Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with courses in Physical science, Forensic Science, Chemistry or related fields.

Experience  – A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience as a Forensic Scientist III (within DPS) or a minimum of six (6) years’ work experience as a Forensic Scientist in the fields of : Friction Ridge, Firearms & Toolmarks, Seized Drugs, Toxicology or Materials (Trace) in a Crime Laboratory.

Licensure and / or Certification - Must possess a valid driver license from state of residence.

Regulatory knowledge – Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to applicable departmental rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Forensic Science – Thorough knowledge of principles, techniques and procedures of related forensic science discipline; of understanding of identification principles. Knowledge of safety procedures for handling hazardous chemicals; of proper evidence handling procedures. Skill in use of laboratory equipment and materials. Ability to :

• Coordinate the handling of evidence between sections;
• Recommend improvements in methodology and equipment to management;
• Communicate findings, orally and in writing, in a clear, concise and effective manner;
• Conduct microscopic examinations requiring accuracy and concentration when relevant;
• Conduct testing used in examination of evidence;
• Testify in court as an expert witness.

Leadership Skills – Must have or be capable of learning leadership skills, e.g. supervision and performance evaluation of personnel, management and care of property and equipment, and training / mentoring new personnel.

Interpersonal Skills - Ability to work effectively with crime laboratory, legal, and law enforcement personnel.

Organizational and Prioritization Skills – Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism.

Presentation / Communication Skills – Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations to a variety of audiences and / or individuals.

Research and Comprehension – Must demonstrate ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information, and be able to utilize and / or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner.

Analytical Reasoning / Attention to Detail – Must demonstrate an ability to examine data / information, discern variations / similarities, and be able identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems.

Technology – Must possess appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems and be able to learn new software / systems. Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).

Confidentiality and Protected Information – Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations, and adhere to applicable laws / statutes / policies related to access, maintenance and dissemination of information.

Safety – Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results / risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices.

Travel and / or Schedule – Availability for after-hour and weekend work, on occasion, may be required.

PHYSICAL and / or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS :

The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and / or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

State of Texas Benefits and Retirement Information :

Current DPS employees who submit applications for posted DPS positions shall notify their immediate supervisor in writing.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in the same salary group and state title as their current position will be transferred with no salary change.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in their current salary group with a new state title may receive an increase of no more than 3.4% over their current salary regardless of posted salary.

Salary is contingent upon qualifications and is subject to salary administration and budgetary restrictions.

DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICATIONS WE DO NOT ACCEPT TELEPHONE CALLS. ONLY CANDIDATES SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED.

State of Texas retirees may be rehired for full-time, non-commissioned positions only under very specific circumstances.