DNA Technical Leader

Posting Close Date: 

Applicants must submit their completed application by 11-22-2025 at 11:59 p.m. MST

Application and Special Instructions

As part of the application process, all applicants are required to submit a résumé, cover letter, AND provide transcripts at the time of the application. Applications that do not include all three documents by the closing date of the recruitment will be considered incomplete and will not receive further consideration for this recruitment.

SAVE THE DATES: Screening Panel Interviews will be held the week of December 8th, 2025.

Candidates must have a master’s degree in a biology-, chemistry- or forensic science-related area. The DNA Technical Leader must have successfully completed nine (9) credit hours of coursework in biology- or chemistry-related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis. The DNA Technical Leader must have successfully completed coursework in statistics or population genetics. The required coursework shall include at least one graduate level course.

At least 3 years of forensic human DNA laboratory experience obtained in a Forensic DNA casework laboratory as a qualified analyst (current or previous) on forensic samples.

Most current FBI-sponsored auditor training must be completed within 1 year of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment of this position.

The DNA Technical Leader must be currently or previously qualified analyst in each technology utilized in the laboratory, or have documented training in each technology utilized in the laboratory within one year of appointment.

Successful completion of a background check by the FBI is required for use of the CODIS database.

Terminal Operator Certification Level C – Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) must be obtained within six (6) months of hire and must be maintained throughout employment in this position.

Must provide a DNA sample for the staff database.

Completion of the ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board) Forensic Internal Auditor or External Assessor ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

Completion of the FBI’s DNA auditor training course.

Completion of 40 hours of continuing education and development specific to leadership, management and training, from the following providers American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD), Forensic Technology Center of Excellence (FTCoE), GAP Science, City of Tucson Ignite or equivalent.

Demonstrated experience with assisting with and/or performing validations in a forensic DNA setting.

Demonstrated experience with conducting internal audits.

Demonstrated experience with conducting external assessments.

Pre-Employment Medical Testing Requirements:
Respirator Physical
Hep B Vaccine/Titer
Non-NIDA Drug Test

ABOUT THIS JOB

Position Summary

The DNA Technical Leader position at the City of Tucson’s Police Department supervises and coordinates operations in an accredited forensic crime laboratory that specializes in forensic biology deoxynucleic acid (DNA) analysis.

Work is performed under the supervision of the Crime Laboratory Superintendent. This position exercises supervision over the DNA unit.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervises quality assurance and control programs, ensuring compliance with Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) and American National Standards Institute National Accreditation Board (ANAB) accreditation requirements. Evaluates non-conformance issues in programs, manages corrective actions, and ensures proficiency testing programs are implemented. Troubleshoots and resolves analytical, technical, and instrumentation issues, ensuring compliance with laboratory accreditation requirements, initiating, suspending, and resuming DNA analytical operations as needed. Reviews technical publications and presentations to remain current on advancements in DNA analysis and apply relevant policies and procedures.
• Researches and assesses new technologies, designs internal validation studies, and recommends implementation for use on forensic DNA casework. Approves technical specifications for maintenance, service, and outsourcing agreements. Reviews, approves, and implements the equipment calibration program, ensuring compliance to operational standards.
• Ensures optimized laboratory performance by assisting with the hiring, training, and coaching of employees. Assesses knowledge, skills, and abilities, and makes recommendations for disciplinary action. Evaluates and supervises employee performance, identifies opportunities and personnel issues, and facilitates resolutions. Develops training plans for DNA unit personnel, documents progress evaluations, and ensures necessary re-training. Reviews