Exam Bulletin - Criminalist Manager

Department of Justice

Exam Code: EX-4665

Examination Plans Included:

  • CRIMINALIST MANAGER - Open

Final Filing Date: 10/27/2025

Classification Details

CRIMINALIST MANAGER: $11,040.00 - $13,828.00 per Month

View the CRIMINALIST MANAGER classification specification.

Application Instructions

Final Filing Date: 10/27/2025.

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 not be accepted.

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

If using delivery methods that do not have certified delivery confirmation, there is no guarantee that your application will be postmarked and arrive by the cut-off date. If your application is electronically submitted or received in hardcopy without 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.

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 MANAGER - Open

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 Application (Form STD 678): All applications must include "to" and "from" employment dates (month/day/year), time-base, 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: Criminalist Manager 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 Manager 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.

00108467 - CRIMINALIST MANAGER

Either I

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

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. This experience must have included at least two years as a supervising criminalist. (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 Criminalist Supervisor. 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. This experience must have included at least two years in the design and direction of scientific research. This experience must also have included at least two years of supervision. (Possession of a master's degree in a physical or biological science may be substituted for one year of general experience and possession of a Ph.D. in a physical or biological science may be substituted for two years of the required general experience.) Experience in California state service applied to this requirement must include at least one year performing the duties of a Criminalist Supervisor. 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 the equivalent of completing four years of college (120 semester units or 180 quarter units) from an accredited college or university.

“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

00108467 - CRIMINALIST MANAGER

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.

Plans, organizes and directs the criminalistic program in an assigned area of the State. Incumbents at this level must supervise two or more Criminalist Supervisors. May also direct complex and sensitive forensic science projects which have a significant impact on the Bureau or the field of criminalistics.

Positions exist in Contra Costa, Fresno, Riverside, Sacramento, San Joaquin, 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
1WrittenAfter Acceptance100%

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

Although the bulletin for this examination is listed as Written weighted at 100%, the examination includes two components illustrated below. Applicants who successfully apply and are determined to meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to participate in a Written Exercise. A final score of 70% must be attained on the Written Exercise in order to participate in the oral Qualifications Appraisal Panel (QAP). The details for both components of this examination are listed below:



WRITTEN EXERCISE - 40%

The Written Exercise consists of candidates responding to a job-related prompt, in writing. Responses will be evaluated by a panel of Subject Matter Experts using standardized, job-related scoring criteria. Examinations will only be administered for those candidates who meet the minimum qualifications. The Written Exercise will be conducted online through a third-party testing platform utilized by the Department of Justice.

The Written Exercise 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 Written Exercise will be sent the morning of the exam to the email address listed on your application.

Test Date:

It is anticipated that the Written Exercise will be conducted online during the week of December 1 or December 8, 2025




QUALIFICATIONS APPRAISAL PANEL (QAP) - 60%

The QAP consists of an oral interview that will include of pre-determined, job-related interview questions. Each competitor will be allowed time prior to the QAP to review the questions. A panel of subject matter experts will evaluate each competitor’s QAP responses using pre-determined scoring criteria.

Test Date:

It is anticipated that the QAP will be conducted the weeks of January 5, January 12 and/or January 19, 2026. The oral interview will be conducted remotely. Prior to the test administration, applicants will receive a notice to appear approximately two weeks before the test date with additional information.

Applicants must receive a minimum score of 70% on the Written Exercise in order to proceed to the next phase of the examination process, the Qualifications Appraisal Panel. To obtain a position on the eligible list, applicants must receive a minimum score of 70% on each component.

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. Applicable laws, rules, and regulations governing evidence collection (e.g., handling, storage, and chain of custody) to ensure the integrity of evidence.
  2. Basic chemistry, including composition, structure, chemical properties, and interactions for use in forensic analysis.
  3. Contamination prevention protocols and procedures pertaining to forensic analysis to ensure integrity of evidence.
  4. Crime scene and laboratory safety protocols.
  5. Current developments, recent literature, and scientific working groups (e.g., OSAC, NIST, and SWGDAM) in the field of forensic science.
  6. Facility management procedures and practices to maintain a secure, functional, and adequately equipped laboratory.
  7. General laboratory operational procedures.
  8. Guiding ethical principles (e.g., CAC Code of Ethics) to maintain a high degree of ethical standards.
  9. Performance management systems and processes (e.g., probationary reports, employee work plans, annual performance appraisals, and feedback systems) to develop staff and improve productivity.
  10. Sample selection techniques and the effects they have on the interpretation of forensic evidence.
  11. Statistical procedures and concepts used in research and laboratory work (e.g., descriptive statistics, difference tests, correlations, Gaussian probability distributions, and measurement of uncertainty).
  12. Strategic planning methods and practices to contribute to the mission and vision of the organization.
  13. The appropriate uses of chemicals used in evidence collection and analysis including interactions, risks, and disposal methods.
  14. The principles and practices of employee supervision and leadership to develop and guide staff while maintaining morale and productivity.
  15. The requirements set forth by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 17025/ANAB AR3125 and FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) pertaining to accreditation to maintain compliance.
  16. The steps of progressive discipline to appropriately counsel staff, manage performance, and mitigate poor work behaviors.
  17. The systematic approach, scientific methods, and techniques used to process crime scenes and analyze evidence.
SKILL IN:
  1. Exercise attention to detail.
ABILITY TO:
  1. Analyze and correctly interpret forensic evidence to draw valid and defensible conclusions.
  2. Attend and engage in training regarding procedures, techniques, or approaches to the analysis of forensic evidence to further develop skills.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Coordinate training to new staff on the procedures, techniques, or approaches to the analysis of forensic evidence and other laboratory processes.
  6. Delegate and monitor work assignments to appropriate staff levels to ensure they meet quality, quantity, and timeliness standards.
  7. Determine the appropriate methodology or technique for use in processing crime scenes or analyzing specific types of evidence.
  8. Interpret written procedures and implement them.
  9. Lead and motivate staff towards a desired goal.
  10. Learn new processes, techniques, or rules to develop skills on the job.
  11. Maintain and coordinate facility-related projects.
  12. Maintain composure during stressful situations (e.g., testifying in court, dealing with difficult employees, managing caseload).
  13. 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).
  14. Organize and prioritize staff workload to meet established deadlines and ensure the most important tasks are completed first.
  15. Review the work of staff and provide constructive feedback.
  16. Successfully complete multiple projects simultaneously within appropriate timeframes while maintaining a quality work product.
  17. Think critically using logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  18. Verbally provide professional consultation, or informed opinions before professional, scientific or legal audiences or proceedings.
  19. Work cooperatively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and capabilities on a one-on-one basis.
  20. Work efficiently to manage “rush” or urgent projects with a quick turnaround.

Eligible List Information

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

  • Department of Justice

The list(s) will be abolished 12 months after being established, unless the needs of the State and conditions of the list(s) warrant a change in this period.

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 this process at 

Testing Departments

  • Department of Justice

Contact Information

Questions regarding this examination should be directed to:

Department of Justice
Testing and Selections Unit
ATTN: Criminalist Manager 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)