Exam Bulletin - Senior Criminalist

Department of Justice

Exam Code: EX-4561

Examination Plans Included:

  • SENIOR CRIMINALIST - Open

Final Filing Date: Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.

Classification Details

SENIOR CRIMINALIST: $7,935.00 - $11,151.00 per Month

View the SENIOR CRIMINALIST classification specification.

Application Instructions

Upcoming Filing Cutoff Dates:

  • 9/18/2025

Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) must be received or postmarked by the filing date indicated above. Applications postmarked, personally delivered or received via interoffice mail after the filing date will be processed in the next group.

Do not submit applications to the California Department of Human Resources through fax or interagency mail.

If using the United States Postal Service for delivery, there is no guarantee that your application will be postmarked and arrive by the cut-off date. If your application does not have a postmark and arrives after the cut-off date, your application will be considered late and not be accepted into the examination unless you are able to provide clear evidence that it was submitted timely. Therefore, to ensure timely delivery of your application, it is recommended that you use either electronic delivery, parcel service, or certified mail. Using one of these options will provide proof the application was sent prior to the cut-off date. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.

Applications received after the cut-off date, regardless of the submission method, will be held to the next cut-off period unless timeline proof of submission can be provided.

Continuous Testing:

The testing office will accept examination packets continuously throughout the year; however, the packets will only be processed during the current administration period. Generally, this examination is administered BIANNUALLY, although this is subject to change based on testing needs. Applications will be reviewed to ensure the minimum requirements for participation in this exam are met. Possession of the entrance requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list.

Who Should Apply:

The information below will help you determine which classification(s) is(are) appropriate for you. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications as stated on this bulletin to compete in this examination.

Open and Open, Non-Promotional Examination(s):

  • SENIOR CRIMINALIST - Open

For all Classifications, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 6 months:

Exam Code(s):

    4561

For SENIOR CRIMINALIST, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 6 months:

Exam Code(s):

  • EX-04561

How To Apply:

Applications received without the required documents will be considered incomplete and may be rejected. To apply for this examination, please complete and return the following required documents:

  • Standard State Employment Application (Form STD 678): All applications must include "to" and "from" employment dates (month/day/year), time-base, duties performed, and applicable classification titles.
  • Official school transcripts (if applicable to meeting minimum qualifications): Candidates unable to obtain official transcripts before the cut-off date may submit unofficial transcripts for the examination process. However, candidates will be required to submit official transcripts upon appointment to a position.

Submit an Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) to apply for this examination.

Electronic applications can be submitted through your account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.

You may apply by mail to:

  • Department of Justice
    Testing and Selection Unit
    ATTN: Senior Criminalist Examination
    P.O. Box 944255
    Sacramento, CA 94244-2550

Indicate the Examination Code and Classification(s) on your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678).

You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:

  • Department of Justice
    Testing and Selection Unit
    1300 I Street, First Floor Lobby
    Sacramento, CA 95814
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    ATTN: Senior Criminalist Examination

Indicate the Examination Code and Classification(s) on your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678). All applicants must provide proof of identification. Accepted forms of identification are: 1) a photo identification card or 2) two forms of signed identification.

The following items must be submitted with your Examination/Employment Application form. Failure to submit these items may result in rejection of your application.

  • Transcript (Official or Unofficial)

Special Testing Arrangements:

If you require assistance or alternative testing arrangements due to a disability, indicate on your application that you need reasonable accommodation. You will be contacted by a representative of the testing department to make the necessary arrangements. If you have not been contacted by the time you receive notification of testing, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

If you are unable to submit your application or complete the test due to a disability, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

Minimum Qualifications

All applicants must meet the education and/or experience requirements as stated on this exam bulletin to be accepted to the examination.

00108478 - SENIOR CRIMINALIST

Either I

Two years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a Criminalist, Range C.

Or II

Experience: Four years of professional experience beyond the trainee level in a physical or biological science laboratory setting performing the duties of a chemist, biochemist or a related position. This experience must have included at least two years as a Criminalist having independent responsibility for making quantitative and qualitative analyses. (One year of postgraduate education in one of the physical or biological sciences may be substituted for one year of the required general experience.) Experience in California state service applied toward this requirement must include at least two years performing the duties of a Criminalist, Range C. and

Education: Equivalent to graduation from college with a major in one of the physical or biological sciences, including the equivalent of eight semester hours of general chemistry and three semester hours of quantitative analysis.

Or III

Experience: Four years of professional experience in a physical or biological science laboratory setting performing independent research related to Forensic Science. (Possession of a master's degree in a physical or biological science may be substituted for one year of experience and possession of a Ph.D. in a physical or biological science for two years of the required experience.) Experience in California state service applied toward this requirement must include at least two years performing the duties of a Criminalist, Range C. and

Education: Equivalent to graduation from college with a major in one of the physical or biological sciences, including the equivalent of eight semester hours of general chemistry and three semester hours of quantitative analysis.


Definition of Terms: 

“Performing the duties of…” means the applicant must have been appointed to and working in the classification for the specified amount of time (or on a training and development (T&D), limited term, or approved out-of-class assignment to the class).

“Equivalent to graduation from college…” means possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited or approved four-year academic institution.

“Professional experience beyond the trainee level…” means experience obtained after receipt of a college degree or its equivalent with a major in one of the physical sciences or biological sciences, as a practitioner in an organized body of scientific knowledge and are authorized to do the work with minimal supervision.

“Related position…” means positions in the disciplines of biology, chemistry (any type), biochemistry, physics, geology, mineralogy, petrology, chemical engineering, microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, criminalistics, forensic science, genetics, entomology, ecology, pharmacology.

Position Description

00108478 - SENIOR CRIMINALIST

Criminalists conduct examinations of crime scenes for physical evidence, and in complex cases make all types of chemical analyses such as alcohol determinations, toxicological analyses of foods and body viscera and fluids; test for drugs and explosives, and various types of microchemical tests; make the difficult microscopic, chemical, and serological tests on blood and other physiological fluid stains; identify and compare hair, fibers, soil, paint, glass, building materials and other substances in forensic cases; make visual, microscopic and other technical examinations and comparisons of tool marks, firearms and other weapons, bullets, cartridge cases and ammunition; make casts; make and develop photographs and photomicrographs using black and white and color films; use complex measuring, recording and testing instruments and devices; prepare evidence and exhibits and testify in court as expert witnesses; assist local law enforcement officers and prosecutors in analyzing and interpreting evidence; write reports and correspondence; give instruction in this field at peace officer training schools; and provide forensic research, application, advanced casework, methodology development, and training to State and/or local forensic scientists and law enforcement agencies.

This is the full journey level of the series. Incumbents are assigned to the more complex Criminalist analyses. They may act as leadpersons to coordinate the work of lower level Criminalists. Incumbents may also be assigned to provide training, application, methodology development, and research related to the field of criminalistics.

Positions exist in Butte, Contra Costa, Fresno, Humboldt, Riverside, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Santa Barabara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, and Sonoma counties.

SPECIAL PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: 


Tact, patience, and keenness of observation.

Examination Information

This examination consists of the following component(s):

Component OrderComponent TypeComponent DuePercentage of Final Score
1Supplemental ReportAfter Acceptance100%

A final score of 70% must be attained to be placed on the eligible list.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE (T&E) QUESTIONNAIRE - 100%

The Training and Experience (T&E) questionnaire consists of job-related questions designed to assess an applicant’s education, training, and experience with performing relevant job duties, as well as the possession of job-related knowledge, skills, and abilities. The exam will be scored using objective, point-based scoring criteria. The exam will be conducted online through a third-party testing platform utilized by the Department of Justice.

The Training and Experience Questionnaire will be administered online typically via a personal computer. A notice for the examination will be sent to your CalCareers account two weeks prior to the test dates listed below. The notice will include information on the process for completing the examination online. If you have not received your notice within two weeks of the dates listed below, please reach out to TSU@doj.ca.gov for assistance. TSU will not contact candidates to ensure their notices were received. It is the responsibility of all applicants to check CalCareers for notices sent prior to the examination administration.The link for the online Training and Experience Questionnaire will be sent the morning of the exam to the email address listed on your application.

If you require reasonable accommodation for the exam, please select yes from the dropdown menu under “General Questions” in the electronic application package in CalCareers. For mail in and drop off applications, please check the box for question #10 on the STD 678 "Standard Application" submitted as part of your application package. You will be notified electronically or in writing to determine next steps and what assistance can be provided.

Test Date: 

It is anticipated that the test will be conducted online during the week of October 27th or November 3rd, 2025. 

In addition to evaluating the applicant's relative knowledge, skill and ability as demonstrated by quality and breadth of education/experience, emphasis in each test component will be on measuring competitively, relative to job demands, each applicant's:

KNOWLEDGE OF: 

  1. Basic chemistry for use in forensic analysis.
  2. Appropriate uses of chemicals used in evidence collection and analysis including interactions, risks, and disposal methods.
  3. Basic chemical extraction and physical separation techniques used in forensic science.
  4. Basic biological principles and properties including molecular and cellular structure and function.
  5. Basic biological principles and properties involving physiological and anatomical structures and processes. 
  6. Systematic approach, scientific methods, and techniques used to process crime scenes and analyze evidence.
  7. Techniques, equipment, tools, principles, and methods for assessing biological evidence such as bodily fluids, hairs, and tissues.
  8. Contamination prevention protocols and procedures pertaining to forensic analysis to ensure integrity of evidence.
  9. Effects of weather or other environmental factors on potential forensic evidence.
  10. Differences between class and individual characteristics.
  11. Presumptive and confirmatory tests and the differences between them.
  12. Basic statistical procedures and concepts used in research and laboratory work. 
  13. Basic mathematics and its application to analyzing and interpreting forensic data.
  14. Intermediate mathematics and their application to the analysis and reporting of forensic and crime scene analyses.
  15. Applicable laws, rules, and regulations governing evidence collection to ensure the integrity of evidence.
  16. English language including syntax, grammar, and spelling as required to complete required paperwork. 
ABILITY TO:
  1. Analyze and correctly interpret forensic evidence to draw valid and defensible conclusions.
  2. Determine the appropriate sequence to follow when analyzing evidence. 
  3. Communicate information and ideas in writing in a clear, articulate manner appropriate to professional, legal, or scientific audiences.
  4. Correctly combine chemicals into reagents or precursors to perform specific analyses. 
  5. Read and understand written information that is fundamental to the field of forensic science. 
  6. Think critically using logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  7. Combine pieces of information to form general conclusions.
  8. Make oral presentations to groups, with in consideration of the audience and nature of the information, to communicate information in a variety of settings. 
  9. Monitor and assess one’s own performance to make necessary improvements.
  10. Communicate in a courteous, professional manner with a variety of individuals to exchange information.
  11. Attend and engage in training regarding procedures, techniques, or approaches to the analysis of forensic evidence to further develop skills.
  12. Testify in court regarding one’s qualifications and the methods used in the course of an analysis as well as the strengths and weaknesses of those methods.
  13. Work cooperatively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and capabilities.
  14. Accept constructive criticism regarding work products and practices in order to continually improve work performance.
  15. Conduct oneself in a professional manner under a variety of circumstances.
  16. Use a word processing program to create written documents and reports of findings from forensic analyses.
  17. Use spreadsheet software to enter, organize, compute, and display data. 
  18. Use communication and computer software programs to exchange information with a variety of individuals. 
  19. Use the internet or other electronic means to conduct background research related to sample processing or forensic analysis.
  20. Comprehend and follow crime scene and laboratory safety protocols.
  21. Organize and prioritize one’s workload to meet established deadlines and ensure the most important tasks are completed in an accurate and thorough manner.
  22. Sort, arrange, and organize case files and documents.
  23. Work productively as a member of a team in order to achieve work goals.
  24. Apply sound judgment and knowledge to determine the best course of action from a set of alternatives.
  25. Maintain composure during stressful situations.
  26. Review the work of other staff and provide constructive feedback.
  27. Learn new processes, techniques, or rules to develop skills on the job.
  28. Maintain focus for extended periods of time when conducting forensic analyses or other assignments.
  29. Collect evidence via different physical means (e.g. sit, stand, and crouch) for forensic analyses.
  30. Manipulate small objects such as small laboratory equipment and small pieces of forensic evidence.
  31. See and differentiate relevant details at close range, corrected or uncorrected.
  32. Match or distinguish between various colors, shades, and brightness levels when visually inspecting physical evidence and testing.
  33. Identify other forms and sources of forensic evidence and how they impact the approach to examination and processing.
EXHIBITS:
  1. Integrity by refraining from unethical or immoral behavior.
  2. Strong work ethic in completing tasks and displays dedication to providing a high quality of work.
  3. Willingness to take initiative to seek out or accept work assignments and/or resolve problems.

Eligible List Information

A Departmental Open eligible list for the SENIOR CRIMINALIST Classification will be established for:

  • Department of Justice

The names of successful competitors will be merged onto the eligible list(s) in order of final score regardless of test date. Eligibility expires 24 months after it is established. Applicants must then retake the examination to reestablish eligibility.

Veterans' Preference will be granted for this examination. Veterans' Preference is an assistance program for veterans, veteran widows and widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans who seek employment with the state. Veterans' Preference is also extended to currently serving military members nearing their retirement or separation date.

You are not eligible for Veteran's Preference if you are:

  • A veteran who has been dishonorably discharged or released.
  • A veteran, widow or widower of a veteran, or spouse of a 100 percent disabled veteran who currently has permanent civil service status. (Permanent civil service status is the status of an employee who is lawfully retained in his/her position after completion of the applicable probationary period. This does not include limited term).

Veterans' Preference is codified in Government Code Sections 18973 – 18979.

Veteran status is verified by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Directions to apply for Veterans' Preference are on the Veterans' Preference Application (Std. Form 1093), which is available at www.CalCareers.ca.gov, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Career Credits are not granted for examination(s) administered on an Open basis or a Promotional basis.

Additional Examinations

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

Under Section 432.7(e) of the Labor Code, persons seeking employment with the Department of Justice may be asked to disclose arrest or detention information regardless of whether or not the arrest or detention resulted in conviction, referral, or participation in diversion programs prior to appointment. Department of Justice regulations may require, as a minimum, pre-employment investigations consisting of fingerprinting; inquiry to local, State, and national files to disclose criminal records; verification of minimum qualifications (i.e., college transcripts); financial status; previous employment background; and personal interviews to determine applicant’s suitability for employment.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION:

Pursuant to Government Code Section 12940 (e) (3), persons appointed to this class shall undergo a medical examination to determine that he or she can perform the essential functions of the job safety and effectively. The medical examination also includes a back x-ray, visual acuity, and color vision tests.

DRUG TESTING REQUIREMENT:

Applicants for positions in this class series are required to pass a drug screening test.

Appeal Information

Candidates may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board (SPB) within 30 days of the postmarked date of any decision notice (e.g., Minimum Qualifications denial, exam results). Examination appeals are required to meet one of the following grounds to be accepted by the State Personnel Board; (1) fraud; (2) discrimination; (3) erroneous interpretation or application of minimum qualifications (MQs); or (4) a significant irregularity in the examination process. Appeals can be filed online at the website above or mailed to Appeals Division, State Personnel Board, 801 Capitol Mall, Sacramento, CA 95814-4806. Please refer to SPB's website for more information at  https://www.spb.ca.gov/appeals/appeals.aspx

Testing Departments

  • Department of Justice

Contact Information

Questions regarding this examination should be directed to:

Department of Justice
Testing and Selection Unit
ATTN: Senior Criminalist Examination
1300 I Street, Suite 720
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 210-6021
Fax: (916) 445-1218
TSU@doj.ca.gov

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice). TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

Drug Free Statement

It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free State work place. Any applicant for State employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective, because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing civil service, and the special trust placed in public servants.

General Information

Examination and/or Employment Application (STD 678) forms are available at the California Department of Human Resources, local offices of the Employment Development Department, and through your CalCareer Account (www.CalCareers.ca.gov).

If you meet the requirements stated on this examination bulletin, you may take this examination, which is competitive. Possession of the entrance requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list. Your performance in the examination described in this bulletin will be rated against a predetermined job-related rating, and all applicants who pass will be ranked according to their scores.

Department of Justice reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and all applicants will be notified.

General Qualifications: Applicants must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and a state of health consistent with the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class. A medical examination may be required. In open examinations, investigation may be made of employment records and personal history and fingerprinting may be required.

Eligible Lists: Eligible lists established by competitive examination, regardless of date, must be used in the following order: 1) sub-divisional promotional, 2) departmental promotional, 3) multi-departmental promotional, 4) service-wide promotional, 5) departmental open, 6) open. When there are two lists of the same kind, the older must be used first. Eligible lists will expire in one to four years unless otherwise stated on the bulletin.

High School Equivalence: Equivalence to completion of the 12th grade may be demonstrated in any one of the following ways: 1) passing the General Education Development (GED) Test; 2) completion of 12 semester units of college-level work; 3) certification from the State Department of Education, a local school board, or high school authorities that the competitor is considered to have education equivalent to graduation from high school; or 4) for clerical and accounting classes, substitution of business college work in place of high school on a year-for-year basis.

Accepted applicants must provide proof of identification at each in-person test session. Acceptable identification consists of a photo identification card or two forms of signed identification.
Application Methods:
Electronic (Your CalCareer Account)
By Mail
In Person (see bulletin for details)
Alternate Application Process

While we recommend that you utilize your CalCareer Account to take advantage of all the tools available, you may choose to apply for this examination without using your account. In this case, print and complete the Exam Application Package Checklist and include it if you submit a hard copy application.

Exam Application Package Checklist

Blank Application Form (STD678)

Accommodation Request (STD679)