Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) is a non-profit corporation that brings together the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources to investigate serious and organized crime. ALERT is comprised of personnel from municipal police agencies, RCMP, and civilian staff that work together on elite teams throughout Alberta focusing on organized crime, human trafficking, auto crimes and child exploitation.
ALERT is looking to hire one (1) full-time Senior Ballistic & Firearms Analyst for the Provincial Firearms Laboratory located in Edmonton.
The Senior Firearms & Ballistic Analyst ensures the effective operation of the Provincial Firearms Laboratory through expert forensic examination, quality assurance oversight, training and mentorship of staff, and administration of laboratory systems and equipment.
This position offers a starting salary of $95,241.57 with eligible increments up to $119,575.42 per year.
The work arrangement for this position is in-person, on-site (not hybrid or remote).

DESIRED SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES:

The following qualifications are required:

• Post-secondary diploma or degree in a relevant scientific discipline, which may include physical sciences (e.g., physics, chemistry), applied sciences (e.g., engineering, forensic technology), or forensic science, plus a minimum of five (5) years of related experience as a firearms analyst, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Successful completion of the National Quality Assurance Program requirements for IBIS use.
• Certification from a recognized Firearms Analyst program.
• Completion of the Public Agents Firearm Verification course with demonstrated use of the Firearms Reference Table.
• Hold a valid Firearms Possession and Acquisition License.
• Expert knowledge of Candian Firearm laws.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of forensic science and laboratory operation.
• Knowledge of evidence types and proper handling procedures.
• Knowledge of the design, construction, and safe operation of firearms and ammunition.
• Knowledge of modern laboratory methods and equipment related to firearm examination.
• Ability to provide expert opinion testimony in court.
• Experience producing comprehensive technical reports.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment.

The following qualifications are considered an asset:

• Knowledge and experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems.
• Knowledge of Privately Manufactured Firearms.
• Knowledge of 3D additive printing.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH ALERT:

Joining ALERT offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking meaningful work in or alongside law enforcement for an organization that contributes to community safety, engages through diverse and challenging roles, provides access to ongoing professional development, cultivates a collaborative environment, and is committed to making a real difference in combating various forms of serious and organized crime.

ALERT corporate employees are eligible for the following:

• Employer Paid Group Life and Disability Insurance.
• Employer Paid Extended Health & Dental Benefits.
• Virtual Health Care, Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs (including access to on-site gym).
• Annual Employer Contributions to Health Care Spending Account &/or Lifestyle Spending Account (coverage for family recreational activities, pet health care & boarding, cosmetic procedures, alternative health services, general interest education, and more).
• Employer Matching Contributions to a Group RRSP Program.
• Educational Assistance and Training Opportunities.
• Paid Vacation starting at Three (3) Weeks.
• ALERT observes 13 provincial and national holidays.

Reporting to the Manager, Provincial Firearms Laboratory, the duties and responsibilities of the Senior Firearms & Ballistic Analyst include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Quality assurance review of reports and Certificates of Analysis submitted by Firearms & Ballistic Analysts (FBAs).
• Serve as the System Administrator of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Mentor all new Firearms & Ballistics Analysts.
• Conduct routine verification, preventive maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of all laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Train all new employees on the use of all laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Ensure safety procedures are followed for handling firearms, biohazard materials, chemicals, solvents, and other potential hazards.
• Ensure weekly lead mitigation cleaning procedures are completed.
• Maintain continuity of exhibits for examination and court purposes.
• Examine firearms, ammunition, parts, and accessories to determine legal classification, mechanical condition, and functionality.
• Prepare Certificates of Analysis, notes, photographs, and other reports for disclosure to the court.
• Attend and testify in court as an expert witness.
• Test-fire firearms and recover fired casings for IBIS acquisition.
• Triage crime scene cartridge casings for source determination.
• Perform serial number restoration.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners on ongoing investigations.
• Assist in retrieval and transport of property/evidence when required.
• Perform other related duties as required.