Firearms Examiner

Posting Date

08/01/25

Application Deadline

Open Until Filled

Pay Range

MIN - MID - MAX
$27.50 - $36.25 - $45.00

Job Type

Unclassified

Department

Sheriff

About the Position

The Firearms Examiner collects, preserves, examines, and interprets physical evidence associated with specific criminal acts related to firearms and tool mark identification. The examiner prepares complex documentation and written reports and presents finding in criminal court. This position performs highly sensitive tasks that require compliance with law enforcement rules and regulations relating to forensic examinations and evidence gathering.

Position Qualifications

We recognize your time is valuable, so please apply if you meet the following qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or Criminalistics related field.

Experience

• Combined education and experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications on a year for year basis.

Other requirements

• Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license or have the ability to obtain by the time of hire.
• Training that may be provided on the job: FEMA NIMS – IS100 and 700, safety, payroll, PREA.
• Prior to hiring, the Sheriff's Office requires that all candidates pass an extensive background review, polygraph and psychological testing.

Our Preferred Candidate has

• Successfully completed a documented forensic firearm training program and/or demonstration of competency.
• Obtained a certification from the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).
• Two (2) years of experience in a forensic, science or engineering discipline.
• Specific education/training in shooting reconstruction, trajectory, firearms analysis or other related forensic firearms disciplines.
• Understands and practices firearm safety and proper handling techniques.
• Experience of microscopy.

Compensation is more than a salary with MCSO:

• Exceptional work-life balance: 4/10 and flex schedules available
• Ongoing training in firearms examinations
• Network in the AZ Firearms Examiners peer study group
• Be a part of an interdisciplinary team
• Enrollment in Arizona State Retirement System
• Paid sick and parental leave
• Access to on-site fitness and free Maricopa County gyms
• Learn more at Benefits Overview 

Essential Job Tasks                                                                                                                   

 (This is not an all-inclusive list of all job duties that may be required; employees will be required to perform other related duties as assigned.)

• Examines evidence using forensic techniques; prioritizes procedures and preserves appropriate samples for any subsequent forensic analysis.
• Maintains knowledge of the historical development of firearms and tool mark identification, to perform various types of evidentiary examination procedures (e.g. appropriate sample sizes, standards, control mechanisms, testing conditions).
• Examines firearms, ammunition and components, and related evidence.
• Test fires firearms for mechanical function, safety, accuracy etc.
• Designs and conducts research related to cases.
• Enters and searches data in NIBIN.
• Writes scientific examination reports, prepares courtroom testimony and demonstratives, testify in court, and discuss laboratory results with law enforcement and attorneys.
• Communicates in multiple formats with supervisors, MCSO staff, county employees, attorneys, and other experts in the field to exchange information regarding analyses of evidence.
• Consults and coordinates with forensic scientists, law enforcement, attorneys, forensic experts, and others regarding analysis, comparison, and identification of physical evidence.
• Inspects and evaluates equipment and standard operating procedures to determine compliance with standards, regulations, specifications, and guidelines.
• Works routinely with chemicals using personal protective equipment when appropriate and ensure safety protocols.
• Prepares mathematical and statistical computations, graphs, charts, and diagrams to complete and report scientific examinations.
• Determines characteristic ammunition and components used in shooting events and analyzing correlation