Working Conditions
The working conditions of a Forensic Firearm Examiner is quite strenuous. At many times, the examiner is not needed on the crime scene, depending upon the situation. Examination are not emotional in many cases because the bulk of the examination is done within the crime lab. You must be physically aware of all aspects with being a Firearm Examiner. You must be conscious of the safety being on the weapon, how it was used, how it was damaged, and all other aspects of handling firearms.
- Identifies and restores serial numbers and identifying marks by employing various processes such as chemical etching, polishing, electrolytic, or magnetic particle separation.
- Prepares reports on all examinations of evidence which include description of weapon or ammunition, results of test firings and/or comparisons and other forensic tests.
- Provides expert testimony in court regarding the results and conclusions of tests on and comparisons of ballistics and tool marks attends pre-trial conference and explains how conclusions were drawn.
- Conducts residue tests and experimental research into specialized areas of firearms and ammunition.
- Responds to crime scenes; inspects evidence; makes determinations of firearm caliber and trajectory; performs crime scene reconstruction as it pertains to ballistics.
- Keeps abreast of new developments and current practices in the field of forensic science.
- Participates in continuous training program in areas related to firearms identification and examination; does extensive reading in professional journals and magazines.
- Conducts training and informational sessions to students at Police Academy or law school, District Attorney’s or Medical Examiner’s office; prepares Power Point presentations, charts, graphs and statistics which demonstrate and support information being provided.
- Performs related work as required.