Forensic Enhancement Laboratory Assistant

Forensic Enhancement Laboratory Assistant 

Hindlip, Worcestershire  

Fixed Term Contract (12 months) 

Part Time (24 hours) Days to be confirmed 

The closing date for this post is 12 noon on Tuesday 17th November 2020 

Secondments may be considered - Please obtain approval from your Line Manager before applying for this as a secondment (please note this is for internal candidates only) 

Interviews dates TBC 

The main purpose of the role is to provide administrative and technical support to the Forensic Enhancement Laboratory (FEL).

To work within, and comply with, measures required to maintain ISO accreditation standards. 

Main Responsibilities:

To responsible for the security and integrity of exhibits submitted to the FEL and the maintenance of accurate records to ensure continuity.

To undertake specific administrative duties, to include the input, storage and retrieval of data from electronic databases and the processing of exhibits received.

To maintain monthly FEL statistics and produce reports as required.

To provide telephone/email assistance to officers regarding submissions and case progress through the FEL.

To prepare laboratory reagents and maintain stock control of chemicals. Monitor and update all Safety Data Sheets relating to chemicals used within the laboratory.

To maintain safe systems of work befitting the requirements of Health and Safety at work and COSHH regulation, to include dynamic risk assessment where relevant. Conforming to the legislation in respect of disposal of waste and hazardous materials. 

To raise requisitions for laboratory consumables and equipment service contracts, and to carry out Quality Control checks of all goods received.

To maintain laboratory equipment, including scheduling and carrying out routine checks, arranging servicing and calibration by external suppliers and maintaining all relevant records in line with ISO procedures.

To assist with verification studies of new and developing laboratory procedures, to include planning and practical work.

To provide statements of evidence for use in court proceedings and, when requested, attend court and give evidence.

To attend and provide general support at crime scenes.

To maintain appropriate records of all work carried out in line with policy and ISO requirements.

To identify and support any non-compliances

To undertake other duties commensurate with the nature, level of responsibility and grading of this post, as required.

Experience/Skills:

Educated to A level, or equivalent, Grade C or above to include a laboratory based science

GCSE or equivalent - Maths and English at Grade C or above

Experience of working in a testing laboratory environment    

Some experience of working in a forensic environment would be advantageous

Working knowledge of databases, including Microsoft applications

Ability to exercise discretion and demonstrate confidentiality

Ability to work under pressure, on occasions with distressing situations

Good organisational and time management skills with the ability to accept and adapt to change

The ability to work as part of a team

Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing

Ability to accurately record data in various formats and in written documentation.

Special Conditions:

Flexi-time scheme applicable to the role.

Uniform and PPE supplied.

Ability to travel across the force area or external force areas.

Frequent Physical Effort required.

Exposure to disturbing/unpleasant images or tasks.

There will be a requirement to provide biometric samples for inclusion on the police elimination databases.

Very occasionally may be required/asked to work unsocial hours or weekends during major crime investigations.

Complete necessary in house training and undertake continuous professional/personal development relevant to the operation of the Forensic Enhancement Laboratory.

To read more about the added benefits and rewards of working for West Mercia Police, please go to our website.  

We want our organisation to be as diverse as the community it serves. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

You will be required as part of West Mercia Police recruitment process to successfully complete vetting and credit checks.  

Those currently eligible on the redeployment register will be given prior consideration