Firearms Examiner

Highlights:

• Conduct complex firearms and toolmark examinations that directly support federal criminal investigations and the pursuit of justice.
• As a Firearms Examiner, you will serve as a subject matter expert whose findings may be used in criminal prosecutions and court proceedings.
• Work alongside experienced forensic professionals supporting the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) mission.
• Work in a fully operational, accredited forensic laboratory utilizing industry-standard methodologies and advanced examination equipment.
• Utilize specialized forensic equipment, including comparison microscopes, stereomicroscopes, forensic imaging systems, and ballistic identification databases.
• Analyze a wide variety of evidence, including firearms, fired bullets, cartridge cases, toolmarks, gunshot-related evidence, and serial number restorations.
• Contribute investigative leads through the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
• Gain exposure to multiple forensic disciplines and collaborate with laboratory personnel, investigators, prosecutors, and law enforcement partners.
• Develop expertise in firearms identification, toolmark examinations, serial number restoration, and related forensic disciplines.
• Be part of a company that offers numerous forensic science opportunities, professional development, and career growth.

Typical Day:

A typical day may involve examining firearms and ballistic evidence, conducting microscopic comparisons of bullets and cartridge cases, restoring obliterated serial numbers, entering and reviewing evidence, preparing forensic reports, and documenting findings that may ultimately be presented as expert testimony. Every case presents unique challenges and opportunities to apply scientific analysis in support of public safety and the administration of justice.

Tasks:

• Receive, inventory, document, and maintain chain-of-custody for firearms-related evidence.
• Examine and analyze firearms, fired bullets, cartridge cases, toolmarks, and other physical evidence using validated forensic techniques.
• Conduct microscopic comparative examinations to identify or eliminate firearms as the source of evidentiary items.
• Test firearms for functionality, operability, and safety.
• Perform serial number restoration examinations on firearms and other evidence.
• Conduct firearms and toolmark identification examinations in accordance with laboratory policies, procedures, and accreditation standards.
• Utilize forensic imaging systems and specialized laboratory equipment to document examinations and findings.
• Enter and analyze ballistic evidence utilizing forensic databases.
• Prepare detailed technical notes, examination documentation, and forensic laboratory reports.
• Provide expert testimony regarding forensic examinations and conclusions when required.
• Maintain compliance with quality assurance requirements, accreditation standards, and laboratory procedures.
• Assist with casework management and efforts to reduce laboratory backlogs.

Required Qualifications:

• At least one (1) year of laboratory experience as a firearms examiner
• Ability to obtain and maintain the required USPIS security clearance.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully complete training, examinations, and competency assessments.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree; preferably in a scientific discipline with at least twenty-four (24) credit hours in the Physical Sciences
• Experience conducting firearms and toolmark examinations.
• Knowledge of firearms identification principles and microscopic comparison techniques.
• Familiarity with serial number restoration methodologies and ballistic evidence examination.
• Experience preparing forensic reports or providing courtroom testimony.
• Knowledge of laboratory accreditation standards and quality assurance practices.

Shift Information:

• Full-Time
• Day Shift (normal working hours falling between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.)

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship required.

Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a USPIS security clearance required.

Location: Dulles, VA

Ideal Innovations, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer:

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.

Ideal Innovations, Inc. is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

Bachelors of Forensic Science (preferred)

Ability to obtain and maintain the required USPIS security clearance. (required)
Ability to work independently while maintaining a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. (required)
Excellent verbal and written communication skills. (required)
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. (required)
Demonstrated ability to successfully complete training, examinations, and competency assessments. (required)
1 years: Experience working in an accredited forensic laboratory. (required)