The Saskatchewan Ballistics Lab, a branch of the Saskatchewan Firearms Office, is hiring one (1) Firearms Lab Technician position, based in Saskatoon.
The Saskatchewan Ballistics Lab (SBL) is a leading forensic science facility dedicated to providing precise, reliable ballistic analysis and firearms examination for law enforcement agencies across the province. Equipped with state鈥憃f鈥憈he鈥慳rt ballistics imaging systems, comparison microscopes, and micro鈥慺orensic toolmark equipment, the SBL is able to deliver expert testimony in court. At SBL, our mandate is to ensure that every analysis contributes to the fair administration of justice and public safety.
Reporting to the Executive Director: Saskatchewan Ballistics Lab, the Firearms Lab Technician will be responsible for receiving, documenting, and preparing firearms鈥憆elated evidence such as ammunition, casings, and firearms, while rigorously maintaining chain鈥憃f鈥慶ustody records to ensure evidentiary integrity throughout the investigative process. A critical part of your role is to calibrate, operate, troubleshoot, and conduct preventative maintenance on specialized instrumentation, including comparison microscopes, digital imaging systems, and other tools in accordance with the laboratory鈥檚 quality assurance and control procedures. You will compile and synthesize analytical results into clear, concise technical reports for review by firearms analysts, law enforcement, and legal counsel, and support the preparation of expert testimony for court proceedings under supervision.聽
The incumbent will be appointed as a Special Constable pursuant to聽The Police Act, 1990.
To be successful in this position, you will have knowledge of the Firearms Act, Regulations, the Criminal Code of Canada, and have experience with courts, court processes and providing court testimony. Your exceptional interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills will assist in providing information, promoting awareness and training and analyzing complex situations.聽 You must be detail-oriented and concise as you handle each piece of evidence that requires testing, as well as:聽
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Developing and maintaining collaborative work relations (stakeholders, governments, law enforcement agencies, and communities);
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Determining safety, security and compliance standards and procedures are met (in storage and handling of firearms);
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Reviewing, analyzing, and making recommendations for firearm examinations;
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Preparing and submitting legal documents (court briefs, affidavits, and disclosure material); and
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Maintaining security and safety standards and procedures when accessing police, court, and other secure information databases (computer systems, databases, word documents).
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Our candidate of choice will be accountable, results-oriented individuals that can meet multiple demands in a continuously changing environment. Your excellent interpersonal skills will assist in developing and maintaining professional relationships with third-party agencies and individuals. Your experience and working knowledge in the following will support you in completing the Firearms Lab Technician duties:
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Firearm classifications, action types, safety, verification, operation and activities;
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Policies, Legislation, Acts and Regulations (Firearms Act, Criminal Code), and other statutes related to firearms;
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Experience handling, using, and identifying firearms;
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Knowledge of law, law enforcement, court procedures and legal processes, and court testimony;
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Proficiency in working with various databases, systems, spreadsheets, and word documents.
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Typically, the knowledge and skills required for this position would be obtained through a聽2-year diploma in Forensic Science or Justice combined with experience in聽policing, investigations, lab work, firearms expertise and working with various specialized procedures and protocols related to firearms.
Conditions of employment must be met to commence in this position:
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Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) or Restricted Possession and Acquisition License (RPAL), current and valid;
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Successful completion of The Canadian Firearms Safety Course and/or Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course;
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A current and valid driver鈥檚 license;
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Ability to obtain Special Constable status in Saskatchewan;
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Obtain a heightened security clearance (RCMP enhanced reliability security clearance), criminal record check, and background checks.
*Due to the nature of this position the Firearms Lab Technician must be able to work in environments that may include exposure to unsettling and/or graphic material, travel, and work in remote locations, and working overtime /variable hours as needed, and be physically able to lift and carry up to and including 25 KG.