DPS - CLD - Forensic Genealogist - 0606

PLEASE NOTE: All applications must contain complete job histories, which includes job title, dates of employment, name of employer, supervisor's name and phone number and a description of duties performed. If this information is not submitted, your application may be rejected because it is incomplete. Resumes do not take the place of this required information.

SUBMITTED THROUGH WORK IN TEXAS: Work In Texas (WIT) applicants must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the posting. In order to complete the supplemental questions please go to CAPPS Recruit to register or login and access your profile. Go to CAPPS Recruit to Sign In https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Performs highly complex (senior-level) research and analysis. Assists local law enforcement with criminal investigations involving violent crimes with a primary focus on cold cases by using genealogical research and genetic genealogy databases to identify persons of interest. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

The following Military Occupational Specialty codes are generally applicable to this position. https://hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_PlanningResearchandStatistics.pdf
Applicants must fully complete the summary of experience to determine if minimum qualifications are met.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Conduct independent forensic genetic genealogy research to identify unknown subjects. Evaluate DNA results and viability of matches using
genealogical databases. Construct family trees and conduct descendancy research to determine potential leads and targets. 

2. Prepare detailed case files, genealogy investigation reports, affidavits, and support packets, adhering to internal standards and accreditation
guidelines. Provide written reports summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommended next steps. Maintain case tracking tools.

3. Communicate investigative leads, case status, and research findings with law enforcement and other stakeholders. Collaborate with laboratory
personnel and law enforcement in ongoing investigations.

4. Perform peer and technical reviews of reports prepared by other genealogists. Ensure compliance with internal SOPs, lab policies, and legal/ethical
standards.

5. Provide education or training to law enforcement agencies. Represent the agency at conferences and meetings.

6. Develop and provide training for internal DPS staff.

7. Develop and revise internal policies and procedures for the genealogy unit.

8. Prepare discovery materials and provide expert testimony in court or administrative hearings as needed.

9. Participate in internal and external auditing.

10. May serve as subject matter expert for major crimes and/or cold case review.

11. Contribute recommendations for training, tools, software, and process improvements. Participate in working groups or task forces.

12. Attend work regularly and observe approved work hours in accordance with agency leave and attendance policies.

13. Perform other duties as assigned.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS:

Education – High School Diploma/equivalent required. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a Bachelor’s degree with Major or coursework emphasis in Genealogy, science, or related field is preferred. 

Experience – Minimum of three (3) years’ professional experience in forensic investigative genetic genealogy, including building family trees and working with law enforcement required. Must be proficient in the use of genetic genealogical databases and familiarity with DOJ Interim Policy and ethical standards. Experience working on cold cases, with underrepresented populations, and handling cases involving misattributed parentage, endogamy, or pedigree collapse is preferred. Experience testifying in court or participating in legal proceedings is preferred.

Substitution Note: Additional work experience of the type described or other related education may be substituted for one another on a year-for-year basis.

Licensure and/or Certification – Completion of a recognized Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy (FIGG) certificate or training program is preferred. Driving is required, must possess a valid driver license from state of residence. 

Regulatory knowledge – Working knowledge of, or the ability to rapidly assimilate information related to TXDPS, State and Federal regulations, legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures.

Technology – Proficiency with Microsoft Office and appropriate levels of proficiency with utilized software and systems (e.g. CAPPS, SharePoint) and be able to learn new software/systems. Proficiency with genetic genealogical databases such as GEDMatch Pro, FamilyTreeDNA, and DNA Painter, and charting/diagramming programs.

Interpersonal Skills – Must demonstrate an ability to exercise poise, tact, diplomacy and an ability to establish and maintain positive, working/professional relationships with internal/external customers. Must demonstrate DPS’ core values: Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Teamwork.

Organizational and Prioritization Skills – Must be organized, flexible, and able to effectively prioritize in a multi-demand and constantly changing environment; able to meet multiple and sometimes conflicting deadlines without sacrificing accuracy, timeliness or professionalism.

Presentation/Communication Skills – Must be able to construct and deliver clear, concise, and professional presentations and/or communications to a variety of audiences and/or individuals.

Research and Comprehension – Must demonstrate ability to quickly and efficiently access relevant information and be able to utilize and/or present research and conclusions in a clear and concise manner.

Analytical Reasoning/Attention to Detail – Must demonstrate an ability to examine data/information, discern variations/similarities, and be able identify trends, relationships and causal factors, as well as grasp issues, draw accurate conclusions, and solve problems.

Confidentiality and Protected Information – Must demonstrate an ability to responsibly handle sensitive and confidential information and situations and adhere to applicable laws/statutes/policies related to access, maintenance and dissemination of information.

Safety – Must be able to work in safe manner at all times, avoiding shortcuts that have potential adverse results/risks, and must be able to comply with safety standards and best practices.

Schedule and Travel – This position may have the ability to telecommute based on the needs of the division/agency. Travel statewide as needed.

PHYSICAL and/or ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:

The physical and environmental demands described here are representative of those encountered and/or necessary for the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Environment: Office/Indoors, Vehicle, Laboratory; 
• Ambulatory skills, e.g. stand, walk, sit, reach, climb, balance, kneel, crouch;
• Hand-eye coordination and arm/hand/finger dexterity;
• Ability to speak, hear, and exercise visual acuity;
• Ability to transfer weights of up to twenty (20) pounds anticipated for this position;
• Driving requirements: Occasional – short trips 1-2x/month.

State of Texas Benefits and Retirement Information: https://www.ers.texas.gov/

Current DPS employees who submit applications for posted DPS positions shall notify their immediate supervisor in writing.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in the same salary group and state title as their current position will be transferred with no salary change.

A DPS employee who is selected for a position in their current salary group with a new state title may receive an increase of no more than 3.4% over their current salary regardless of posted salary.

Salary is contingent upon qualifications and is subject to salary administration and budgetary restrictions.

DUE TO THE HIGH VOLUME OF APPLICATIONS WE DO NOT ACCEPT TELEPHONE CALLS. ONLY CANDIDATES SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW WILL BE CONTACTED.

State of Texas retirees may be rehired for full-time, non-commissioned positions only under very specific circumstances.