FORENSIC SCIENTIST SUPERVISOR (Firearms and Tool Mark Supervisor)

FORENSIC SCIENTIST SUPERVISOR (Firearms and Tool Mark Supervisor)

Salary

$108,866.00 - $118,957.00 Annually

Location

Towson, MD

Job Type

MERIT

Job Number

10.570 08-2026

Department

POLICE

Opening Date

08/10/2026

Closing Date

8/28/2026 4:30 PM Eastern

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Pay Schedule XII, Grade 8M, Regular Schedule: 35 hours per week

A vacancy exists in the Police Department, Division of Forensic Services.

A list of eligible applicants will be established based on the examination as outlined below.

Current and future vacancies occurring in any Office or Department of Baltimore County General Government may be filled from the list of eligible applicants.

All interested transfer and promotional candidates must apply at this time.

List all promotions and changes in job duties due to reclassification as separate work experience on your application. Applicants must include the dates of the promotions and reclassifications.

Note: Failure to complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application will result in your application not being considered. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications for a position. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time.

You MUST attach your transcript(s) and/or certification(s)/license(s) to your application. Unofficial copies are acceptable.

Failure to submit proof of Education and/or Certification(s)/License(s) will result in your application not being considered. Proof of education, certification(s) and/or license(s) must be submitted with each application.

Examples of Duties

Under minimal supervision, supervises the handling, analysis, reporting of analysis and/or the quality assurance of evidence as part of police and fire investigations in one or more units of the Forensic Services Section of the Baltimore County Police Department.

• Establishes and enforces procedures for the accountability and integrity of evidence and case records in one or more units of the Forensic Services Section.
• Develops and maintains unit specific manuals.
• Ensures proper training of employees.
• Establishes and enforces procedures for the analyses performed and results reported, and quality assurance thereof in one or more units of the Forensic Services Section.
• Supports the objectives of the Forensic Services Section regarding budget, human resources and productivity by monitoring progress and preparing associated documentation for one or more units of the Forensic Services Section.
• Monitors attendance and workflow to optimize the efficiency of work performed in one or more of the units of the Forensic Services Section.
• Maintains communication and networks outside of the Forensic Services Section in order to further the mission of the Section.
• Participates in professional forums, communicates with peers and customers in a professional manner.
• Cultivates a positive working environment by incorporating teamwork and wellness strategies for one or more units within the Forensic Services Section.

Examples of other Duties

• Performs other related duties as required.
• Supervises the development of unit specific training programs and coordinates the professional development of Forensic Services unit staff.
• Plans, coordinates, and supervises employees in one or more units within the division. Assigns, reviews, and evaluates the work of professional and support staff.

(NOTE: The duties and responsibilities listed above are for the purpose of determining a common set of minimum qualifications for all positions in this classification. They may not include all the essential duties of each position in the classification. Each position in this classification may not be required to perform all of the essential duties listed.)

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, genetics, medical technology, pharmaceutical science, or a related field (physical, natural, or forensic science).

OR

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in criminal justice, law enforcement, digital forensics, cyber security, high technology crime or a related field.

PLUS

Six years' experience in the comparative analysis or scientific evaluation of evidence, including providing testimony as an expert forensics witness in moot or criminal court.

(Possession of a Master's degree in chemistry, biology or a related field may be substituted for one year of the required experience. Possession of a Doctoral degree in chemistry, biology, or related field may be substituted for two years of the required experience.)

In accordance with accreditation requirements

May require additional casework (graduate or undergraduate level) covering the following subject areas: biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology and, if after July 1, 2020, shall have successfully completed coursework covering statistics and/or population genetics; plus six years' experience, which must include three years' of human DNA experience as a qualified analyst on forensic samples.

May substitute an Associate's degree in digital forensics, cyber security, or high technology crime or a related field; plus certification by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) for the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or equivalent; plus ten years' experience performing analysis of digital forensic evidence, including testifying in a criminal court as an expert witness, may be substituted for the educational requirement for some positions.

May require successful completion of professional level training (ANAB technical assessor training or equivalent) in quality assurance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Entry Level)

• Thorough knowledge of scientific principles and the rules of admissibility of evidence and chain of custody.
• Thorough knowledge of the theory and operation of chemicals, instruments and equipment used in a forensic laboratory.
• Thorough, discipline specific, technical knowledge of analytical and comparative methods and techniques for forensic sciences concerning identification, collection, analysis and preservation of physical and digital evidence.
• Thorough knowledge of ethical and quality assurance standards for forensic testing laboratories.
• Knowledge of criminal investigative procedures and the criminal justice system concerning the application of forensic science, including testifying.
• Knowledge of discipline specific regulations and resources.
• Knowledge of the organization and structure of law enforcement agencies and court systems.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Skill in supervising professional and support staff.
• Skill in handling physical evidence and applying correct methods and techniques for identification, collection and preservation of physical and digital evidence.
• Skill in conducting analyses, analyzing test data and drawing accurate conclusions in accordance with approved procedures.
• Skill in maintaining accurate records, preparing and presenting detailed documentation of analysis and results of analysis.
• Skill in preparing and conducting discipline specific technical training.
• Skill in risk management concerning integrity and ethics as they pertain to the application of forensic science.
• Skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to provide expert or other testimony in court.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to legally access appropriate State and Federal databases.
• Ability to evaluate and recommend changes in procedures, methods, and policies.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, law enforcement and legal system personnel.
• Ability to apply principles and practices of supervision and personnel management.
• Ability to apply principles and practices of budget and procurement.
• Ability to determine goals and objectives and work to accomplish them.

In addition to new employee training provided by Baltimore County, employees will be provided information and or training specific to the Forensic Services Section of the Baltimore County Police Department, including but not limited to the following: ethics, safety, quality assurance and laboratory management information system. As applicable, prior to performing casework, the employee will be provided a documented training program to ensure they have the opportunity to gain the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities to perform their assigned task(s).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Full Performance)

• Ability to provide expert or other testimony in court.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to legally access appropriate State and Federal databases.
• Ability to apply discipline specific technical knowledge of handling physical evidence and applying correct methods and techniques for identification, collection and preservation of physical and digital evidence.
• Ability to apply methods of analysis, analyze test data and draw accurate conclusions in accordance with approved procedures.
• Ability to maintain accurate records, prepare and present detailed documentation of analysis and results of analysis.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, law enforcement and legal system personnel.

Character Requirements

All applicants must be of good moral character and emotionally stable, as determined by a comprehensive background investigation, polygraph examination, and drug test. Employees are subject to periodic drug testing.

Licenses and Certificates

Possession of a valid driver's license, equivalent to a non-commercial, class C Maryland driver's license is required at the time of appointment.

Digital: Certification through the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) as a Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) is required at the time of appointment.

Chemistry: Certification from the Maryland Department of Health is required to analyze controlled dangerous substances.

Proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education

Applicants are required to submit proof of licenses, certifications and education beyond high school to meet the required and preferred qualifications of the position. Diplomas or transcripts must show the applicants major field of study. Copies and unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

Failure to submit proof of Licenses, Certifications and Education will result in your application not being considered. Proof of licenses, certifications, and/or education must be submitted with each application.

Proof of Degree Equivalency

Applicants who have obtained a degree from outside the United States of America are required to submit degree equivalence documentation from World Education Services, Inc. (www.WES.org).

Mail or deliver documents to:

ATTN: Forensic Scientist Supervisor (Firearms and Tool Mark Supervisor)

Office of Human Resources

Baltimore County Government

308 Allegheny Ave.

Towson, MD 21204

You MUST attach your transcript(s) and/or certification(s)/license(s) to your application. Unofficial copies are acceptable.

EXAMINATION PROCEDURE

Applicants will be qualified based on an evaluation of their training and experience, as stated on their application, which includes answers to the supplemental questions. Applicants must state the dates and duties of past and present experience clearly and completely for evaluation purposes.

Conditions of Employment

On appointment to this classification, an employee must provide a DNA sample to be maintained for quality assurance purposes by way of buccal swab of the inside of the employee's mouth or current standardized collection procedure to be performed by qualified police department personnel. Provision of the DNA sample is a condition of employment and shall only be used for law enforcement purposes as a forensic laboratory or for purposes of human remains identification and request, but only to the extent that the genetic information is used for analysis of DNA identification markers for quality control to detect sample contamination. It shall be maintained and disclosed only in a manner consistent with law, separate from the employee's personnel file as a confidential medical record, and will not be used for any other purpose. See 75 Fed. Reg. 68912, 68936 (November 9, 2010), 42 U.S.C. 2000ff-1(b)(6), 29 CFR 1635.8(b)(6), as amended. Provision of the DNA sample is a bona fide occupational qualification reasonably necessary to the normal operation of the police department. Failure to provide the DNA sample would prevent performance of an essential job function. Employees in this classification may be assigned to a work shift which includes nights, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. Employees in this classification are subject to call to duty in emergencies and may be required to work overtime as needed.

For all discipline specific: Other licenses and certifications may be required within a year of appointment and must be maintained thereafter to retain employment.

Physical and Environmental Conditions

The work of this classification frequently requires walking and standing, lifting, carrying, or dragging equipment and evidence of various sizes and shapes, traveling between work sites, and exposure to adverse weather conditions, toxic chemicals, bio-medical hazards, such as blood and other body fluids, and other hazardous conditions. Some situations will require climbing ladders, working at heights, or accessing confined spaces.

Medical Examination and Employment Background Investigation

Applicants selected for employment with Baltimore County must successfully complete a physical examination, drug screening and employment investigation, including, but not limited to criminal background, education certification and fingerprinting checks.

Employment Benefits for Full-Time, Merit or Classified Employees

Baltimore County General Government offers the following benefits to full-time,merit or classified employees. Some benefits vary for sworn employees of the Police and Fire Departments. New employees are eligible for benefits upon hire, unless noted otherwise.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Baltimore County is an equal opportunity employer and encourages minority, female and disabled applicants.

Smoke free workplace

All Baltimore County offices are smoke free.

Drug free workplace

Baltimore County provides a drug free workplace. Prospective employees are required to submit to urinalysis drug testing as part of the pre-employment physical examination.

Salary

Annual Salary review - Step increases may be granted on anniversary date based on satisfactory job performance

General Increases - Cost of living increases and adjustments may be granted as legislated.

Longevity Increases - In accordance with the specific pay schedule, a full-time merit or classified employee may receive a longevity increase, equivalent to one step, upon completion of a certain number of years of classified service with the County.

Employee Assistance Program

Our Employee Assistance Program provides confidential and professional assessment and referral assistance for employees and eligible dependents in the household who are experiencing personal problems that may be affecting work performance, job satisfaction, or overall quality of life.

Health Insurance

Health Insurance benefits elected become effective the first day of the month following the date of hire if the employee has completed online enrollment prior to that date. New employees must enroll within thirty (30) calendar days of hire. Plans offered include:

Medical, Prescription, Dental and Vision insurance.

Flexible Spending Accounts

Opportunity to set aside pre-tax dollars, through payroll deduction, for eligible unreimbursed medical care expenses and/or dependent care costs.

Life Insurance

Employees may elect basic term life insurance for themselves equal to one time the employees annual salary, rounded to the next higher $1,000. Employees contribute a portion of the premium through monthly payroll deductions. The County also offers an Additional/Employee paid Life Insurance plan with coverage up to $100,000.

Retirement

Employees are required to participate in the Baltimore County Employees Retirement System (ERS), with very limited exceptions.

Paid Leave

Paid benefits listed below vary depending upon the Classification.

Sick Leave

Vacation Leave

Personal Leave

Holidays

Bereavement Leave

Jury Leave

Military Leave

Baltimore County Employees Federal Credit Union

Membership in Baltimore County Employees Federal Credit Union offers a full range of savings programs, loans, checking, direct deposit, payroll deduction, savings bonds, and other financial services.

Direct Deposit

Payroll through direct deposit to the financial institution selected by employee is required.

Educational Assistance

70 to 80 percent tuition reimbursement following successful completion of pre-approved courses related to position. Amount of reimbursement and fiscal year dollar limitations vary with bargaining group.

Deferred Compensation

Nationwide Retirement Solutions offers a 457 retirement plan allowing for payroll contributions of tax deferred dollars to investment options of your choice.

Disclaimer

This is only a summary of benefits and policies in Baltimore County. Any benefit or policy may be changed at any time at the discretion of the administration. This summary does not constitute an express or implied contract, nor does it constitute a guarantee that your employment relationship will continue for any specified period of time or end only under certain conditions.

01

The purpose of the supplemental questions listed below is to further evaluate your experience and education to determine your eligibility for this job classification. Answer each question accurately and thoroughly. The experience you indicate in your responses to the supplemental questions must also be described, in detail, on the Work History section of this application. If you cite experience in your response that is not included on the Work History section of this application, your application may be considered incomplete and you may not receive further consideration for this position. Questions with text answers require you to include the name of the employer/organization and dates of the specific experience.

• I have read and acknowledge the above instructions.

02

Failure to complete all fields of the "Work Experience" section of the application will result in your application not being considered. A resume will not be considered in determining your qualifications for this position. Applicants selected for an interview may provide a resume at that time.

• I have read and acknowledge the above statement.

03

Are you currently a merit (full-time), non-merit (part-time), or temporary employee of the Baltimore County General Government? Employees of Baltimore County Public Schools, Baltimore County Public Library, Baltimore Countys court systems or Baltimore County Community College and employees of temporary services used by the County are not considered employees of the Baltimore County General Government.

• yes
• no

04

The position you are applying for requires proof of education and/or licenses beyond high school in order to qualify. You must submit this proof as instructed on the job posting. If you do not submit the transcript(s) or license(s) by the closing date, your application will not be considered further.

• I have read and acknowledge the above instructions.

05

Do you have at least six (6) years of experience in the scientific analysis of forensic evidence or in the discipline of firearms and toolmarks, including authoring forensic reports and providing testimony as an expert forensic witness in moot or criminal court?

• Yes
• No

06

Provide specific example(s) of the experience you cited in the previous question. Include the employer(s) and date(s) you performed these duties. Be certain that this experience is also described, in detail, on the Work History/Experience section of this application. If you chose "No" in the previous question, respond by entering N/A to this question.

07

Have you obtained casework authorization in firearm comparison, NIBIN entry and correlation and other firearms related analyses?

• Yes
• No

08

Provide specific example(s) of the experience you cited in the previous question. Include the employer(s) and date(s) you performed these duties. Be certain that this experience is also described, in detail, on the Work History/Experience section of this application. If you chose "None of the above" in the previous question, respond by entering N/A to this question.

09

Licenses and certifications required to perform the duties of the position must be maintained throughout your employment with Baltimore County Government. Are you willing and able to accept these conditions of employment?

• Yes
• No

10

Employees in this classification are subject to call to duty in emergencies and may be required to work overtime as needed. Are you willing and able to accept this condition of employment?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer Baltimore County

Address 308 Allegheny Avenue

Towson, Maryland, 21204

Phone 410-887-3135

Website http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov