Exam Bulletin - Criminalist Supervisor

Department of Justice

Exam Code: EX-4619

Examination Plans Included:

  • CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR - Open

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

Bulletin Updates

  • Any editable section on the Exam Bulletin has been updated.
  • Any editable section on the Exam Bulletin has been updated.

Classification Details

CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR: $9,093.00 - $12,480.00 per Month

View the CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR classification specification.

Application Instructions

Upcoming Filing Cutoff Dates:

    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):

    • CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR - Open

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

    Exam Code(s):

      4619

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

    Exam Code(s):

    • EX-04619

    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.
    • Training and Experience Narrative Responses
    • Signed Affirmation Page Training and Experience Narrative Affirmation

    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: Criminalist Supervisor 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: Criminalist Supervisor 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.

    • Other - Training and Experience Narrative Affirmation Page - Please refer to the link in the "How to Apply" section of the examination bulletin
    • Other - Training and Experience Narrative Responses - Please refer to the instructions in the "Training and Experience Narrative" section of the examination bulletin
    • 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.

    00108477 - CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR

    Either I

    One year of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a Senior Criminalist.

    Or II

    Experience: Broad and extensive (more than five years) of professional experience in a physical or biological science laboratory setting performing the duties of a chemist, biochemist or a related position. (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 one year performing the duties of a Senior Criminalist. 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: Broad and extensive (more than five 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 may be substituted for two years of the required experience.) Experience in California state service applied toward this requirement must include at least one year performing the duties of a Senior Criminalist. 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.

    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.

    “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

    00108477 - CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR

    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 working supervisor level where incumbents are responsible for directing the work of a minimum of four Criminalists and/or laboratory technicians/assistants within: (1) a field office engaged in various criminalistic disciplines, (2) the California Criminalistic Institute engaged in organizing and providing forensic research, application, advanced casework, training and methodology development in one specialized criminalistic discipline, or (3) a forensic laboratory engaged in independent research as well as the design and direction of complex research projects and training programs. Staff at this level may also be assigned the most difficult advanced forensic casework and courtroom testimony with wide discretion and independence of action.

    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 ReportWith Application100%

    Components that are due with your application will be scored and will count toward your final examination result. Failure to submit these items may result in disqualification or elimination from the examination.

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

    Training and Experience Narrative - 100 %

    The Training and Experience Narrative consists of job-related questions for which candidates must submit typed responses. A panel of subject matter experts will evaluate competitor responses to each question using job-related rating and scoring criteria. Examinations will be scored only for those candidates who meet the minimum qualifications. Candidates are not to receive any coaching or assistance and supervisors are not to review, edit or make suggestions. The questions are provided at the end of this examination bulletin.

    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, including composition, structure, chemical properties, and interactions for use in forensic analysis.
    2. Basic chemical extraction and physical separation techniques used in forensic science.
    3. Basic biological principles and properties including molecular and cellular structure and function.
    4. The systematic approach, scientific methods, and techniques used to process crime scenes and analyze evidence.
    5. The techniques, equipment, tools, principles, and methods for assessing biological evidence such as bodily fluids, hairs, and tissues.
    6. Contamination prevention protocols and procedures pertaining to forensic analysis to ensure integrity of evidence.
    7. Applicable laws, rules, and regulations governing evidence collection (e.g., handling, storage, and chain of custody) to ensure the integrity of evidence.
    8. The English language including syntax, grammar, and spelling as required to complete and review paperwork (e.g., reports, exhibits, and correspondence).
    9. Current developments, recent literature, and scientific working groups (e.g., OSAC, NIST, and SWGDAM) in the field of forensic science.
    10. Crime scene and laboratory safety protocols.
    11. The requirements set forth by the ISO 17025/ANAB AR 3125 and FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) pertaining to accreditation to maintain compliance.
    12. The Quality Management System (QMS) to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.
    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 (e.g., which analysis may be employed first so its application does not adversely impact downstream analyses).
    3. Communicate information and ideas in writing in a clear, articulate manner using appropriate tone, vocabulary/nomenclature, and grammar appropriate to professional, legal, or scientific audiences.
    4. Read and understand written information that is fundamental to forensic science (e.g., professional/scientific journals, procedure manuals, court rulings/precedents, equipment manuals, and safety information related to chemicals and equipment).
    5. Think critically using logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses
      of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
    6. Combine pieces of information to form conclusions.
    7. Interpret written procedures and implement them.
    8. Make oral presentations to groups, taking into account the audience and nature of the information, to communicate information in a variety of settings (e.g. training and meetings).
    9. Monitor and assess one’s own performance to make necessary
      improvements.
    10. Communicate in a courteous, professional manner with a variety of individuals (e.g., law enforcement, attorneys, and court staff) in order to exchange information or accept work.
    11. Attend and engage in training regarding procedures, techniques, or approaches to the analysis of forensic evidence to further develop skills.
    12. Coordinate training to new staff on the procedures, techniques, or approaches to the analysis of forensic evidence and other laboratory processes.
    13. Verbally provide professional consultation, or informed opinions before professional, scientific or legal audiences or proceedings.
    14. Work cooperatively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and capabilities on a one-on-one basis.
    15. Conduct oneself in a professional manner under a variety of circumstances.
    16. Organize and prioritize staff workload to meet established deadlines and ensure the most important tasks are completed first.
    17. Apply sound judgment and knowledge to determine the best course of action from a set of alternatives.
    18. Delegate and monitor work assignments to appropriate staff levels to ensure they meet quality, quantity, and timeliness standards.
    19. Learn new processes, techniques, or rules to develop skills on the job.

    Eligible List Information

    A Departmental Open eligible list for the CRIMINALIST SUPERVISOR 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.

    Training and Experience Narrative

    Training and Experience Narrative

     

    GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

    This Training and Experience Narrative is the sole component of the Criminalist Supervisor examination. The Narrative will be rated by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) using predetermined rating criteria. To be placed on the eligibility list a minimum score of 70% must be received on this component. Read the instructions carefully before completing this examination; failure to do so may result in an inability to process your Training and Experience Narrative and disqualification from this examination.

     

    • This Training and Experience Narrative consists of 4 questions.
    • You must type your responses to these questions.
    • Your response to each question may only consist of 1 sheet of paper, single spaced, in 12-point Times New Roman font, with a 1-inch margin on all sides of the page. The maximum number of pages you should complete for this Training and Experience Narrative is 4 pages. Responses that do not meet this criteria may not be rated and may result in disqualification from this exam.
    • You must write the question number you are responding to in the top left corner of each page. You may hand write this number, however it must be clearly legible.
    • Please keep your answers concise, but be sure to answer all questions completely and accurately. Providing specific information will allow the SMEs to properly evaluate your qualifications. Omitted information cannot be considered and will not be assumed.
    • The exam submitted should solely be your work. Candidates are not to receive any coaching or assistance and supervisors should not review, edit, or make suggestions to the Training and Experience Narrative responses.


    Training and Experience Narrative Questions:

    Question #1

     

    Please provide a detailed description of any relevant training, education, and/or experience you have in forensic science or other closely related fields that has prepared you to assume the duties and responsibilities of a Criminalist Supervisor. The training, education, and/or experience may apply to the areas of research, casework, technical expertise, or other relevant areas applicable to the role of Criminalist Supervisor.

     

    Question #2

     

    Please describe your experience designing and directing projects in forensic science or another professional field. In your response, please include specific examples and provide a detailed description of the role and responsibilities you held in the project(s), any challenges you encountered, and the project’s ultimate outcome.

     

    Question #3

     

    Please describe your experience successfully maintaining laboratory accreditation standards. In your response, please include specific examples of your experience as it relates to the areas of quality control and/or quality assurance and your understanding of accreditation standards.

    Question #4


    As a Criminalist Supervisor, you will be responsible for developing a team of Criminalists to accomplish laboratory and departmental goals. Please describe an example from your professional career where you mentored or provided guidance to another colleague. In your response, provide a detailed description of your communication and guidance, and the overall outcome of the situation.

     

    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 this process 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: Criminalist Supervisor 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)