Forensic Career — DNA Project

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SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – August 2015

Mon, Aug 24th, 2015

New posts within the South African Police Service (SAPS) Forensic Services Division, under the Public Service Act, have been added to their website and are currently being advertised for August 2015 – http://www.saps.gov.za/careers/careers.php.

CLOSING DATE for all applications: 04 September 2015

PUBLIC SERVICE ACT POSTS

Click here to read the application process in terms of the Public Service Act.

Please download the full advertisement for all the new Public Service Act posts, including full requirements, core responsibilities, salary level and how to apply (PDF).

Download the official application form from the SAPS website.

The following posts are available:

FORENSIC SCIENCE LABORATORY

1. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Case Reception and Registration
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (3 Posts) (Ref FS 700/2015)

2. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Exhibit Management
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 701/2015)

3. Post: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Case Management
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Ballistics Section: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 702/2015)
Scientific Analysis Section: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 703/2015)
Chemistry Section: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 704/2015)
Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (3 Posts) (Ref FS 705/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (6 Posts) (Ref FS 706/2015)

4. Post: Warrant Officer
Discipline: CCTV Operators: Supply Chain Management
Section: Nodal Support
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Silverton: Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 707/2015)
Arcadia: Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 708/2015)
Piet Joubert Building: Pretoria (3 Posts) (Ref FS 709/2015)
Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (6 Posts) (Ref FS 710/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 711/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (4 Posts) (Ref FS 712/2015)

Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Bothongo Plaza: Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 713/2015)
Local Criminal Record Centre: Witbank (2 Posts) (Ref FS 714/2015)

5. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: IBIS
Section: Ballistics
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 715/2015)

6. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Ballistics Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Silverton: Pretoria (5 Posts) (Ref FS 716/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 717/2015)
Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (6 Posts) (Ref FS 718/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 719/2015)

7. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Mechanical & Metallurgical Engineering
Section: Regional Laboratory: Western Cape
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 720/2015)

8. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: DNA Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Arcadia: Pretoria (30 Posts) (Ref FS 721/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (10 Posts) (Ref FS 722/2015)
Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (5 Posts) (Ref FS 723/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 724/2015)

9. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Archiving: Archives and Disposals
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 725/2015)

10. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Drugs General: Chemical Analysis
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Silverton: Pretoria (3 Posts) (Ref FS 726/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 727/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (11 Posts) (Ref FS 728/2015)

11. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Fire Investigation: Chemistry Investigation
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Silverton: Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 729/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 730/2015)

12. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Environmental Crimes: Material Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (6 Posts) (Ref FS 731/2015)

13. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Image Analysis: Scientific Analysis
Section: Regional Laboratory: Western Cape
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 732/2015)

14. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Questioned Document Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Piet Joubert Building: Pretoria (3 Posts) (Ref FS 733/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 734/2015)
Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 735/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 736/2015)

15. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Ante Mortem Facilitation
Section: Victim Identification Centre
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 737/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 738/2015)

16. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Post Mortem Facilitation: Crime Scene & Victim Recovery
Section: Victim Identification Centre
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 739/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 740/2015)

17. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Forensic Anthropology: Specialized Identification Services
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 741/2015)
Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 742/2015)

18. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Facial Reconstruction: Specialized Identification Services
Section: Victim Identification Centre
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 743/2015)

19. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Forensic Entomology: Specialized Identification Services
Section: Victim Identification Centre
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 744/2015)

CRIMINAL RECORD & CRIME SCENE MANAGEMENT:

20. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Crime Scene Laboratory
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Makhado: Limpopo (2 Posts) (Ref FS 745/2015)
Ermelo: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 746/2015)
Bellville: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 747/2015)
Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 748/2015)
Mitchells Plain: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 749/2015)
Oudtshoorn: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 750/2015)
Jeffreysbay: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 751/2015)
King Williamstown: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 752/2015)
Mthatha: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 753/2015)
Mount Road: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 754/2015)

21. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: Police Clearance: Criminal Information Centre
Section: Centralized CRC
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 755/2015)

22. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: Record Tracing
Section: Centralized CRC
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (4 Posts) (Ref FS 756/2015)

23. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: Electronic Archiving: Archives
Section: Criminalistic Bureau
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 757/2015)

24. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: AFIS Coordination: Fingerprint Database Management
Section: Criminalistic Bureau
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 758/2015)

25. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: FIPS Coordination: Adjudication & Expungement
Section: Criminalistic Bureau
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office:: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 759/2015)

26. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Crime Scene Investigation
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Provincial CR & CSM:

Bloemfontein: Free State (2 Posts) (Ref FS 760/2015)
Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 761/2015)
Potchefstroom: North West (2 Posts) (Ref FS 762/2015)

27. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: Priority Crime Investigation
Discipline: Crime Scene Investigation
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 763/2015)

28. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Sub-Section: Priority Crime Investigation
Discipline: Crime Scene Investigation
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 764/2015)

29. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Crime Scene Investigation
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:
National Office:

Pretoria (2 posts) (Ref FS 765/2015)

Eastern Cape Province:

Cradock (1 Post) (Ref FS 766/2015)
East London (3 Posts) (Ref FS 767/2015)
Grahamstown (2 Posts) (Ref FS 768/2015)
Uitenhage (3 Posts) (Ref FS 769/2015)
Mthatha (3 Posts) (Ref FS 770/2015)
Mount Road (3 Posts) (Ref FS 771/2015)

Free State Province:

Park Road (5 Posts) (Ref FS 772/2015)
Welkom (3 Posts) (Ref FS 773/2015)
Selosesha (1 Post) (Ref FS 774/2015)
Kroonstad (1 Post) (Ref FS 775/2015)

Gauteng Province:

Ga-Rankuwa (6 Posts) (Ref FS 776/2015)
Kempton Park (4 Posts) (Ref FS 777/2015)
Pretoria North (2 Posts) (Ref FS 778/2015)
Vereeniging (2 Posts) (Ref FS 779/2015)
Johannesburg (2 Posts) (Ref FS 780/2015)
Krugersdorp (2 Posts) (Ref FS 781/2015)

KwaZulu Natal Province:

Durban (4 Posts) (Ref FS 782/2015)
Kokstad (2 Posts) (Ref FS 783/2015)
Ladysmith (3 Posts) (Ref FS 784/2015)
Mtubatuba (1 Post) (Ref FS 785/2015)
Newcastle (1 Post) (Ref FS 786/2015)
Nqutu (2 Posts) (Ref FS 787/2015)
Pietermaritzburg (2 Posts) (Ref FS 788/2015)
Port Shepstone (1 Post) (Ref FS 789/2015)
Richards Bay (1 Post) (Ref FS 790/2015)
Ulundi (2 Posts) (Ref FS 791/2015)
Vryheid (1 Post) (Ref FS 792/2015)

Limpopo Province:

Groblersdal (2 Posts) (Ref FS 793/2015)
Lebowakgomo (2 Posts) (Ref FS 794/2015)
Lephalale (1 Post) (Ref FS 795/2015)
Modimolle (1 Post) (Ref FS 796/2015)
Musina (2 Posts) (Ref FS 797/2015)
Thohoyandou (2 Posts) (Ref FS 798/2015)
Tzaneen (4 Posts) (Ref FS 799/2015)

Mpumalanga Province:

Nelspruit (2 Posts) (Ref FS 800/2015)
Witbank (3 Posts) (Ref FS 801/2015)
Secunda (1 Post) (Ref FS 802/2015)
Ermelo (2 Posts) (Ref FS 803/2015)
Lydenburg (2 Posts) (Ref FS 804/2015)
Acornhoek (1 Post) (Ref FS 805/2015)
Elukwatini (2 Posts) (Ref FS 806/2015)

North West Province:

Rustenburg (5 Posts) (Ref FS 807/2015)
Brits (4 Posts) (Ref FS 808/2015)
Vryburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 809/2015)
Mmabatho (3 Posts) (Ref FS 812/2015)
Potchefstroom (2 Posts) (Ref FS 813/2015)
Klerksdorp (2 Posts) (Ref FS 810/2015)
Lichtenburg (2 Posts) (Ref FS 811/2015)

Northern Cape Province:

Kimberley (2 Posts) (Ref FS 814/2015)
Upington (4 Posts) (Ref FS 815/2015)
Kuruman (2 Posts) (Ref FS 816/2015)
Kakamas (2 Posts) (Ref FS 817/2015)
Calvinia (1 Post) (Ref FS 818/2015)

Western Cape Province:

Bellville (2 Posts) (Ref FS 819/2015)
Cape Town (2 Posts) (Ref FS 820/2015)
Mitchells Plain (2 Posts) (Ref FS 821/2015)
George (1 Post) (Ref FS 822/2015)
Paarl (1 Post) (Ref FS 823/2015)
Somerset West (1 Post) (Ref FS 824/2015)
Vredenburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 825/2015)
Worcester (1 Post) (Ref FS 826/2015)
Oudtshoorn (1 Post) (Ref FS 827/2015)
Vredendal (1 Post) (Ref FS 828/2015)

30. Post Title: Warrant Officer
Discipline: Criminalistic Bureau
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:
Eastern Cape Province:

Aliwal North (1 Post) (Ref FS 829/2015)
Cradock (1 Post) (Ref FS 830/2015)
East London (1 Post) (Ref FS 831/2015)
Graaff-Reinet (1 Post) (Ref FS 832/2015)
Grahamstown (1 Post) (Ref FS 833/2015)
Jeffreysbay (1 Post) (Ref FS 834/2015)
King William’s Town (1 Post) (Ref FS 835/2015)
Middelburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 836/2015)
Queenstown (1 Post) (Ref FS 837/2015)
Uitenhage (1 Post) (Ref FS 838/2015)
Mthatha (1 Post) (Ref FS 839/2015)
Mount Road (1 Post) (Ref FS 840/2015)

Free State Province:

Park Road (1 Post) (Ref FS 841/2015)
Welkom (1 Post) (Ref FS 842/2015)
Kroonstad (1 Post) (Ref FS 843/2015)
Bethlehem (1 Post) (Ref FS 844/2015)
Phudatjithaba (1 Post) (Ref FS 845/2015)
Zamdela (1 Post) (Ref FS 846/2015)
Selosesha (1 Post) (Ref FS 847/2015)

KwaZulu Natal Province:

Durban (2 Posts) (Ref FS 848/2015)
Kokstad (1 Post) (Ref FS 849/2015)
Ladysmith (2 Posts) (Ref FS 850/2015)
Newcastle (1 Post) (Ref FS 851/2015)
Pietermaritzburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 852/2015)
Port Shepstone (1 Post) (Ref FS 853/2015)
Richards Bay (1 Post) (Ref FS 854/2015)
Vryheid (1 Post) (Ref FS 855/2015)

Limpopo Province:

Polokwane (1 Post) (Ref FS 856/2015)
Giyani (1 Post) (Ref FS 857/2015)
Lebowakgomo (1 Post) (Ref FS 858/2015)
Lephalale (1 Post) (Ref FS 859/2015)
Makhado (1 Post) (Ref FS 860/2015)
Modimolle (1 Post) (Ref FS 861/2015)
Mokopane (1 Post) (Ref FS 862/2015)
Musina (1 Post) (Ref FS 863/2015)
Phalalborwa (1 Post) (Ref FS 864/2015)
Thabazimbi (1 Post) (Ref FS 865/2015)
Thohoyandou (1 Post) (Ref FS 866/2015)
Tzaneen (1 Post) (Ref FS 867/2015)

Mpumalanga Province:

Middelburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 868/2015)
Nelspruit (1 Post) (Ref FS 869/2015)
Witbank (1 Post) (Ref FS 870/2015)
Kwamahlanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 871/2015)
Secunda (1 Post) (Ref FS 872/2015)
Ermelo (1 Post) (Ref FS 873/2015)

North West Province:

Potchefstroom (1 Post) (Ref FS 874/2015)
Pudimoe (1 Post) (Ref FS 875/2015)
Brits (1 Post) (Ref FS 876/2015)
Vryburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 877/2015)
Klerksdorp (1 Post) (Ref FS 878/2015)
Lichtenburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 879/2015)
Mmabatho (1 Post) (Ref FS 880/2015)
Provincial CR & CSM: Potchefstroom (1 Post) (Ref FS 881/2015)

Northern Cape Province:

Provincial CR & CSM: Kimberley (2 Posts) (Ref FS 882/2015)
Kimberley (2 Posts) (Ref FS 883/2015)
Upington (2 Posts) (Ref FS 884/2015)
Kuruman (2 Posts) (Ref FS 885/2015)

Western Cape Province:

Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town (2 Posts) (Ref FS 886/2015)
Bellville (1 Post) (Ref FS 887/2015)
Cape Town (1 Post) (Ref FS 888/2015)
Mitchells Plain (1 Post) (Ref FS 889/2015)
George (1 Post) (Ref FS 890/2015)
Paarl (1 Post) (Ref FS 891/2015)
Somerset West (1 Post) (Ref FS 892/2015)
Vredenburg (1 Post) (Ref FS 893/2015)
Worcester (1 Post) (Ref FS 894/2015)
Beaufort West (1 Post) (Ref FS 895/2015)

31. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Facial Identification: Crime Scene Investigation
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Modimolle: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 896/2015)
Thohoyandou: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 897/2015)

32. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Environmental Compliance
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post:

Questioned Documents: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 898/2015)
Chemistry: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 899/2015)
Ballistics: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 900/2015)
Crime Scene Management: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 901/2015)

33. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Quality Assurance
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post:

Arcadia: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 902/2015)
Ballistics: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 903/2015)
Criminalistic Bureau: National Office: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 904/2015)
Crime Scene Management: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 905/2015)
Explosives: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 906/2015)

Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management:

King William’s Town: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 907/2015)
Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 908/2015)
Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 909/2015)
Durban: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 910/2015)
Polokwane: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 911/2015)
Middelburg: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 912/2015)
Potchefstroom: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 913/2015)
Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 914/2015)

34. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Quality Control
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post:

Crime Scene Laboratories: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 915/2015)
Crime Scene Management: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 916/2015)

Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management:

King William’s Town: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 917/2015)
Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 918/2015)
Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 919/2015)
Durban: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 920/2015)
Polokwane: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 921/2015)
Middelburg: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 922/2015)
Kimberly: Northern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 923/2015)
Potchefstroom: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 924/2015)
Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 925/2015)

Regional Laboratory:

Biology: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 926/2015)
Chemistry: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 927/2015)
Ballistics: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 928/2015)
Questioned Documents: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 929/2015)
Biology: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 930/2015)
Chemistry: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 931/2015)
Biology: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 932/2015)
Chemistry: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 933/2015)
Ballistics: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 934/2015)
Questioned Documents: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 935/2015)

35. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Technical Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post:

Chemistry: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 936/2015)
Biology: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 937/2015)
Ballistics: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 938/2015)
Scientific Analysis: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 939/2015)

Regional Laboratory:

Biology: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 940/2015)
Chemistry: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 941/2015)
Ballistics: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 942/2015)
Questioned Documents: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 943/2015)
Ballistics: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (2 Posts) (Ref FS 944/2015)
Questioned Documents: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 947/2015)
Ballistics: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 948/2015)
Chemistry: Plattekloof: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 949/2015)
Biology: Plattekloof: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 950/2015)
Questioned Documents: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1Post) (Ref FS 951/2015)
Chemistry: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (2 Posts) (Ref FS 945/2015)
Biology: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 946/2015)

Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management:

King William’s Town: Eastern Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 952/2015)
Bloemfontein: Free State (2 Posts) (Ref FS 953/2015)
Johannesburg: Gauteng (2 Posts) (Ref FS 954/2015)
Durban: KwaZulu Natal (2 Posts) (Ref FS 955/2015)
Polokwane: Limpopo (2 Posts) (Ref FS 956/2015)
Middelburg: Mpumalanga (2 Posts) (Ref FS 957/2015)
Kimberly: Northern Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 958/2015)
Potchefstroom: North West (2 Posts) (Ref FS 959/2015)
Cape Town: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 960/2015)

36. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Forensic Awareness
Section: Development Facilitation
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post:

Scientific Analysis: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 961/2015)
Victim Identification Centre: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 962/2015)

Regional Laboratory:

Ballistics: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 963/2015)
Chemistry: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 964/2015)
Questioned Documents: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 965/2015)
Chemistry: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 966/2015)
Biology: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 967/2015)
Chemistry: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 968/2015)
Ballistics: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 969/2015)
Questioned Documents: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 970/2015)

Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management:

Kimberly: Northern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 971/2015)

37. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Discipline: Lead Investigation
Section: Forensic Database Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Arcadia: Pretoria (7 Posts) (Ref FS 972/2015)

38. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Client Notification Services: Reporting & Liaison
Section: Forensic Database Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Arcadia: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 973/2015)

SUPPORT SERVICES:

39. Post Title: Assistant Administration Officer (Sergeant)
Section: Support Services
Location of the post: Arcadia: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 974/2015)

GENERAL:

Only the official application form (available on the SAPS website and at SAPS recruitment offices) will be accepted. The Z83 previously utilized will no longer be accepted. All instructions on the application form must be adhered to and all previous/pending criminal/disciplinary convictions must be declared. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of the application.

The post particulars and reference number of the post must be correctly specified on the application form. A separate application form must be completed for each post.

A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae must be submitted together with the application form.

Certified copies (certification preferably by Police Officers) of an applicant’s ID document, motor vehicle driver’s license (Police Act appointments), Senior Certificate and all educational qualifications obtained together with the academic record (statement of results) thereof and service certificates of previous employers stating the occupation and the period, must also be submitted and attached to every application. The copies must be correctly certified on the copy itself, not at the back. The certification must not be older than three months. All qualifications and driver’s licenses submitted will be subjected to verification checking with the relevant institutions.

CANDIDATES ARE REQUESTED TO INITIAL EACH AND EVERY PAGE OF THE APPLICATION FORM, CV AND ALL ANNEXURES.

The closing date for the applications is 2015-09-04. Applications must be mailed timeously. Late applications will not be accepted or considered.

Appointments will be made in terms of the SAPS Act or Public Service Act as applicable to the post environment.

If a candidate is short-listed, it can be expected of him/her to undergo a personal interview.

Successful applicants to be appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) and applicants not yet appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) will have to undergo a medical examination and found to be medically fit. They will further have to comply with the prescripts on the SAPS Dress Order, whereby tattoos may not be visible when wearing uniform, must be willing to undergo the prescribed Introductory Police Development Learning Programme and are expected to work flexi hours or shifts in the execution of their duties.

The Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act, Act 37 of 2013 requires that all new recruits (appointments) in the South African Police Service as from 31st of January 2015 provide a buccal sample in order to determine their forensic DNA profile. The forensic DNA profile derived from the sample will be loaded to the National Forensic DNA Database.

Short-listed candidates for appointment to certain identified posts, will be vetted in terms of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 32 of 2007) and the Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No 38 of 2005). A candidate, whose particulars appear in either the National Register for Sex Offenders or Part B of the Child Protection Register, will be disqualified from appointment to that post.

All short-listed candidates will be subjected to fingerprint screening. Candidates will be subjected to a vetting process which will include security screening and fingerprint verification.

Correspondence will be conducted with successful candidates only. If you have not been contacted within three (3) months after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

The South African Police Service is under no obligation to fill a post after the advertisement thereof.

The South African Police Service is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and it is the intention to promote representivity in the Public Service through the filling of these posts. Persons whose transfer/appointment/promotion will promote representivity will therefore receive preference.

Applications and enquiries can be directed to:
Lt Colonel Klopper / Lt Moonsamy
Tel: (012) 421-0194
Tel: (012) 421-0584

Postal Address:
Private Bag X 322
PRETORIA
0001

Hand Delivery:
Cnr Beckett and Pretorius Street
Strelitzia Building
Arcadia

Tags: forensic analyst, forensic science lab, SAPS
Posted in Crime Scenes, Forensic Career, Latest News, Press | 5 Comments »

DNA Awareness Trainer wanted for KZN

Tue, Jul 7th, 2015

We are urgently looking for an additional DNA & Crime Scene Awareness Trainer to host our DNA CSI workshops in the KZN region.

DNA Project Team 2015

If you are passionate about forensics and fighting crime, are confident and presentable with great public speaking skills then please email us ASAP at info@dnaproject.co.za with your CV.

Please Note:

Preference will be given to someone with knowledge of genetics and/or forensics.

This is a part time position where you will be paid per workshop.

The closing date for all applications is Sunday the 12th of July 2015.

Tags: KZN trainer
Posted in DNA Detective, DNA Project, Forensic Career | Comments Off on DNA Awareness Trainer wanted for KZN

SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – July 2015

Wed, Jul 1st, 2015

New posts within the South African Police Service (SAPS) Forensic Services Division, under the Public Service Act, have been added to their website and are currently being advertised for July 2015 – http://www.saps.gov.za/careers/careers.php.

Please Note: Police officials are employed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995) and civilian employees are employed in terms of the Public Service Act, 1994 (Act No 103 of 1994).

CLOSING DATE for all applications: 10 July 2015

PUBLIC SERVICE ACT POSTS

Click here to read the application process in terms of the Public Service Act.

Please download the full advertisement for all the new Public Service Act posts, including full requirements, core responsibilities, salary level and how to apply (PDF).

Download the official application form from the SAPS website.

The following posts are available:

1. Post Title: Colonel
Section Commander: Quality Management: Biology
Section: Quality Management: Forensic Science Laboratory
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 600/2015)

2. Post Title: Major
Commander: Crime Scene Laboratories: Local Criminal Record Centre
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town: Western Cape: (1 Post) (Ref FS 601/2015)
Pretoria Central: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 602/2015)

3. Post Title: Major (Chief Forensic Analyst) [RE-ADVERTISEMENT]
Sub Section Commander: Mechanical & Metallurgical Engineering
Section: Ballistics
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Western Cape: Plattekloof (1 Post) (Ref FS 603/2015)

4. Post Title: Major [RE-ADVERTISEMENT]
Commander: Technical Management:
Section: Regional Quality Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 604/2015)

5. Post Title: Major
Commander: Bomb Disposal: Explosives
Section: Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 605/2015)

6. Post Title: Major
Commander: Complex / Serial DNA Case Review: Case Review
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 606/2015)

7. Post Title: Major
Commander: Drugs General: Chemical Analysis
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 607/2015)

8. Post Title: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Semi Automation Reference Samples: DNA Analysis
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 608/2015)

9. Post Title: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Fire Investigation: Chemistry Investigation
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 609/2015)

10. Post Title: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Drugs Complex: Chemical Analysis
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 610/2015)
Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 611/2015)

11. Post Title: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Routine DNA Case Review: Case Review
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 612/2015)

12. Post Title: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section Commander: Institutional Development: Development Facilitation: Ballistics
Section: Development Facilitation
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 613/2015)

13. Post Title: Lieutenant
Sub-Section: Bomb Disposal: Explosives
Section: Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 614/2015)

14. Post Title: Lieutenant
Sub Section Commander: Explosives Control
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 615/2015)

15. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Section: Crime Scene Laboratories
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Middelburg: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 616/2015)
Mitchells Plain: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 617/2015)
Paarl: Western Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 618/2015)
Protea Glen: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 619/2015)
Potchefstroom: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 620/2015)

16. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Chemical Processing: Crime Scene Laboratories
Section: Crime Scene Management
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Pretoria: National Office (1 Post) (Ref FS 621/2015)

17. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Drugs General: Chemical Analysis
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (2 Posts) (Ref FS 622/2015)

18. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Fire Investigation: Chemical Analysis
Section: Chemistry
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 623/2015)

19. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Evidence Recovery
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (7 Posts) (Ref FS 624/2015)

20. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Image Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Silverton (1 Post) (Ref FS 625/2015)

21. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Organic Analysis: Material Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Silverton (1 Post) (Ref FS 626/2015)

22. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Microscopy Analysis: Trace Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Silverton (1 Post) (Ref FS 627/2015)

23. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Questioned Document Analysis
Section: Regional Laboratory
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 628/2015)

24. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Ballistics Analysis: Ballistics
Section: Regional Laboratory
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 629/2015)

25. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Metallurgical Engineering: Mechanical & Metallurgical Engineering
Section: Ballistics
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 630/2015)

26. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer) [RE-ADVERTISEMENT]
Sub Section: Profiling: Material Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Silverton: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 631/2015)

27. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer) [RE-ADVERTISEMENT]
Section: Regional Quality Management
Sub-Section: Quality Management: Pretoria
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Pretoria: (1 Post) (Ref FS 632/2015)

28. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Section: Regional Quality Management
Sub-Section: Quality Management: Pretoria
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Pretoria: (1 Post) (Ref FS 633/2015)

29. Post Title: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: DNA Analysis
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 634/2015)

30. Post Title: Constable
Sub Section: Crime Scene Investigation: Local Criminal Record Centre
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Brits: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 635/2015)
Mount Road: Eastern Cape (2 Posts) (Ref FS 636/2015)
Cradock: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 637/2015)
Mokopane: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 638/2015)
Groblersdal: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 639/2015)
Musina: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 640/2015)
Phalaborwa: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 641/2015)
Thabazimbi: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 642/2015)
Lebowakgomo: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 643/2015)
Worcester: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 644/2015)
Paarl: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 645/2015)
Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 646/2015)
Bellville: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 647/2015)
Kimberley: Northern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 648/2015)
Vryburg: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 649/2015)
Potchefstroom: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 650/2015)
Port Shepstone: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 651/2015)
Durban Central: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 652/2015)

31. Post Title: Constable
Sub Section: Archives: Source Documents
Section: Criminalistic Bureau
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria: (5 Posts) (Ref FS 653/2015)

32. Post Title: Constable
Sub Section: Precious Metal Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 654/2015)

33. Post Title: Constable
Section: Local Criminal Record Centre
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Witbank: Mpumalanga (6 Posts) (Ref FS 655/2015)

34. Post Title: Constable
Section: Lead Investigation: DNA Database Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 656/2015)

GENERAL:

Only the official application form (available on the SAPS website and at SAPS recruitment offices) will be accepted. The Z83 previously utilized will no longer be accepted. All instructions on the application form must be adhered to and all previous/pending criminal/disciplinary convictions must be declared. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of the application.

The post particulars and reference number of the post must be correctly specified on the application form. A separate application form must be completed for each post.

A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae must be submitted together with the application form.

Certified copies (certification preferably by Police Officers) of an applicant’s ID document, motor vehicle driver’s license (Police Act appointments), Senior Certificate and all educational qualifications obtained together with the academic record (statement of results) thereof and service certificates of previous employers stating the occupation and the period, must also be submitted and attached to every application. The copies must be correctly certified on the copy itself, not at the back. The certification must not be older than three months. All qualifications and driver’s licenses submitted will be subjected to verification checking with the relevant institutions.

CANDIDATES ARE REQUESTED TO INITIAL EACH AND EVERY PAGE OF THE APPLICATION FORM, CV AND ALL ANNEXURES.

The closing date for the applications is 2015-07-10. Applications must be mailed timeously. Late applications will not be accepted or considered.

Appointments will be made in terms of the SAPS Act or Public Service Act as applicable to the post environment.

If a candidate is short-listed, it can be expected of him/her to undergo a personal interview.

Successful applicants to be appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) and applicants not yet appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) will have to undergo a medical examination and found to be medically fit. They will further have to comply with the prescripts on the SAPS Dress Order, whereby tattoos may not be visible when wearing uniform, must be willing to undergo the prescribed Introductory Police Development Learning Programme and are expected to work flexi hours or shifts in the execution of their duties.

The Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act, Act 37 of 2013 requires that all new recruits (appointments) in the South African Police Service as from 31st of January 2015 provide a buccal sample in order to determine their forensic DNA profile. The forensic DNA profile derived from the sample will be loaded to the National Forensic DNA Database.

Short-listed candidates for appointment to certain identified posts, will be vetted in terms of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 32 of 2007) and the Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No 38 of 2005). A candidate, whose particulars appear in either the National Register for Sex Offenders or Part B of the Child Protection Register, will be disqualified from appointment to that post.

All short-listed candidates will be subjected to fingerprint screening. Candidates will be subjected to a vetting process which will include security screening and fingerprint verification.

Correspondence will be conducted with successful candidates only. If you have not been contacted within three (3) months after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

The South African Police Service is under no obligation to fill a post after the advertisement thereof.

The South African Police Service is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and it is the intention to promote representivity in the Public Service through the filling of these posts. Persons whose transfer/appointment/promotion will promote representivity will therefore receive preference.

Applications and enquiries can be directed to:
Lt Colonel Klopper / Lt Moonsamy
Tel: (012) 421-0194
Tel: (012) 421-0584

Postal Address:
Private Bag X 322
PRETORIA
0001

Hand Delivery:
Cnr Beckett and Pretorius Street
Strelitzia Building
Arcadia

Tags: forensic science lab, forensic services, job vacancies, SAPS
Posted in Forensic Career | 15 Comments »

What is Forensic Photography?

Tue, Jun 9th, 2015

Put simply, forensic photography (also known as forensic imaging or crime scene photography) relates to photography that is undertaken within a legal context, for example; providing an accurate visual record of an accident or crime scene.

In the process of aiding an investigation and/or legal proceedings in court, forensic photographers are called upon to photograph a wide range of subjects.

These include:

Crime Scenes
Gunshot Wounds
Bitemarks
Weapons
Trace Evidence
Autopsy Procedures

Less obvious but equally important photographic protocols include taking pictures of mail and newspapers to help establish date of death and photographs taken from the perspective of witnesses at the time of the crime etc.

The following short documentary by David Beazley takes a fascinating look at Forensic Photography through the eyes of Nick Marsh – a forensic photographer of over 20 years.

SOURCES:

Forensic Photography – http://www.all-about-forensic-science.com/forensic_photography.html

The Forensic Photographer – https://vimeo.com/120053370

Tags: forensic photography
Posted in Crime Scenes, Forensic Career | Comments Off on What is Forensic Photography?

6 cases that changed crime analysis

Sat, Mar 14th, 2015

The following infographic by Portland State University takes a look at how crime analysis has changed for the better since 1784:

(click on image to enlarge)

SOURCE: http://online.ccj.pdx.edu/resources/infographics/6-cases-that-changed-crime-analysis-infographic/

CREDIT: Portland State University Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Tags: crime analysis
Posted in DNA Detective, Forensic Career, Infographic | Comments Off on 6 cases that changed crime analysis

SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – March 2015

Sun, Mar 1st, 2015

New posts within the South African Police Service (SAPS) Forensic Services Division, under the SAPS Act (employment as a police official), have been added to their website and are currently being advertised for March 2015 – http://www.saps.gov.za/careers/careers.php.

Please Note: Police officials are employed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995).

CLOSING DATE for all applications: 13 March 2015

POLICE ACT POSTS

Click here to read the application process in terms of the SAPS Act.

Please download the full advertisement for all the new SAPS Act posts, including full requirements, core responsibilities, salary level and how to apply (PDF).

Download the official application form from the SAPS website.

The following posts are available:

1. Post: Colonel
Section Commander: Investigative Support
Section: Investigative Psychology
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 241/2014)

2. Post: Major
Commander: Permits and Licences: Explosives Control
Section: Explosives
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 242/2014)

3. Post: Major
Commander: Technical Support: Bomb Disposal
Section: Explosives
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 243/2014)

4. Post: Major
Commander: Explosives Control
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: King Williamstown: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 244/2014)
Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: Bloemfontein: Free State: (1 Post) (Ref FS 245/2014)

5. Post: Major
Commander: Explosives Unit
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Germiston: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 246/2014)
Pietermaritzburg: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 247/2014)

6. Post: Major
Commander: Crime Scene Laboratories
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: King Williamstown: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 248/2014)

7. Post: Major
Commander: Technical Management
Section: Regional Quality Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 249/2014)

8. Post: Chief Forensic Analyst (Major)
Section: Regional Quality Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Amazimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 250/2014)

9. Post: Chief Forensic Analyst (Major)
Commander: Technical Management: Scientific Analysis
Section: Technical Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 251/2014)

10. Post: Chief Forensic Analyst (Major)
Sub Section Commander: Profiling Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Gauteng: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 252/2014)

11. Post: Lieutenant
Sub-Section: Criminal Profiling Centre
Section: Centralized CRC
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Pretoria: National Office (1 Post) (Ref FS 253/2014)

12. Post: Lieutenant
Sub-Section: Bomb Disposal
Section: Explosives
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 254/2014)

13. Post: Senior State Accountant (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Bookkeeping: Finance and Administration Services
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Location of the post:

Forensic Science Laboratory: Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 255/2014)
Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 256/2014)
Provincial Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: Cape Town: Western Cape (1Post) (Ref FS 257/2014)

14. Post: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Specialized Identification Services: Data Collection
Section: Post Mortem Facilitation
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 258/2014)

15. Post: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Case Management
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 259/2014)

16. Post: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Case Review
Section: Biology
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 260/2014)

17. Post: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Environmental Compliance: Regional Laboratory
Section: Quality Management: Forensic Science Laboratory
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 261/2014)

18. Post: Senior Forensic Analyst (Lieutenant)
Sub Section: Quality Assurance: Explosives
Section: Quality Management: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Component: Quality Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 262/2014)

GENERAL:

Only the official application form (available on the SAPS website and at SAPS recruitment offices) will be accepted. The Z83 previously utilized will no longer be accepted. All instructions on the application form must be adhered to and all previous/pending criminal/disciplinary convictions must be declared. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of the application.

The post particulars and reference number of the post must be correctly specified on the application form. A separate application form must be completed for each post.

A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae must be submitted together with the application form.

Certified copies (certification preferably by Police Officers) of an applicant’s ID document, motor vehicle driver’s license (Police Act appointments), Senior Certificate and all educational qualifications obtained together with the academic record (statement of results) thereof and service certificates of previous employers stating the occupation and the period, must also be submitted and attached to every application. The copies must be correctly certified on the copy itself, not at the back. The certification must not be older than three months. All qualifications and driver’s licenses submitted will be subjected to verification checking with the relevant institutions.

CANDIDATES ARE REQUESTED TO INITIAL EACH AND EVERY PAGE OF THE APPLICATION FORM, CV AND ALL ANNEXURES.

The closing date for the applications is 2015-03-13. Applications must be mailed timeously. Late applications will not be accepted or considered.

Appointments will be made in terms of the SAPS Act or Public Service Act as applicable to the post environment.

If a candidate is short-listed, it can be expected of him/her to undergo a personal interview.

Successful applicants to be appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) and applicants not yet appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) will have to undergo a medical examination and found to be medically fit. They will further have to comply with the prescripts on the SAPS Dress Order, whereby tattoos may not be visible when wearing uniform, must be willing to undergo the prescribed Introductory Police Development Learning Programme and are expected to work flexi hours or shifts in the execution of their duties.

The Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act, Act 37 of 2013 requires that all new recruits (appointments) in the South African Police Service as from 31st of January 2015 provide a buccal sample in order to determine their forensic DNA profile. The forensic DNA profile derived from the sample will be loaded to the National Forensic DNA Database.

The Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Act, Act 37 of 2013 requires that all new recruits (appointments) in the South African Police Service as from 31st of January 2015 provide a buccal sample in order to determine their forensic DNA profile. The forensic DNA profile derived from the sample will be loaded to the National Forensic DNA Database.

Short-listed candidates for appointment to certain identified posts, will be vetted in terms of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 32 of 2007) and the Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No 38 of 2005). A candidate, whose particulars appear in either the National Register for Sex Offenders or Part B of the Child Protection Register, will be disqualified from appointment to that post.

All short-listed candidates will be subjected to fingerprint screening. Candidates will be subjected to a vetting process which will include security screening and fingerprint verification.

Correspondence will be conducted with successful candidates only. If you have not been contacted within three (3) months after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

The South African Police Service is under no obligation to fill a post after the advertisement thereof.

The South African Police Service is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and it is the intention to promote representivity in the Public Service through the filling of these posts. Persons whose transfer/appointment/promotion will promote representivity will therefore receive preference.

Applications and enquiries can be directed to:
Lt Colonel Klopper / Lt Moonsamy
Tel: (012) 421-0194
Tel: (012) 421-0584

Postal Address:
Private Bag X 322
PRETORIA
0001

Hand Delivery:
Cnr Beckett and Pretorius Street
Strelitzia Building
Arcadia

Tags: forensic science lab, forensic services, SAPS
Posted in Forensic Career | 6 Comments »

SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – November 2014

Sun, Nov 16th, 2014

New posts within the South African Police Service (SAPS) Forensic Services Division, under the SAPS Act (employment as a police official), have been added to their website and are currently being advertised for November 2014 – http://www.saps.gov.za/careers/careers.php.

Please Note: Police officials are employed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995).

CLOSING DATE for all applications: 21 November 2014

POLICE ACT POSTS

Click here to read the application process in terms of the SAPS Act.

Please download the full advertisement for all the new SAPS Act posts, including full requirements, core responsibilities, salary level and how to apply (PDF).

Download the official application form from the SAPS website.

The following posts are available:

1. Post: Personnel Practitioner (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Employee Health and Wellness
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management (1 Post) (Ref FS 126/2014)
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng

2. Post: Provisioning Administration Officer (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Supply Chain Management: Demand and Acquisition
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Location of the post:

Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 127/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: King Williams Town: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 128/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 129/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 130/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Potchefstroom: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 131/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Kimberley: Northern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 132/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 133/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Polokwane: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 134/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Amazimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 135/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Plattekloof: Western Cape: (1 Post) (Ref FS 136/2014)

3. Post: Provisioning Administration Officer (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Supply Chain Management: Vehicle Fleet Management
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Location of the post:

Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management National Office: Pretoria (2 Posts)(Ref FS 137/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 138/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 139/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Polokwane: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 140/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 141/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 142/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 143/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 144/2014)

4. Post: Provisioning Administration Officer (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Supply Chain Management: Moveable Government Property
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Location of the post:

Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 145/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: National Office Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 146/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 147/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 148/2014)

5. Post: Provisioning Administration Officer (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Supply Chain Management: Facility Management
Section: Nodal Support Centre: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post:

Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 149/2014)
Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 150/2014)

6. Post: State Accountant (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Finance and Administration Services
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Location of the post:

Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 151/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 152/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 153/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Amazimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post)(Ref FS 154/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 155/2014)

7. Post: State Accountant (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Finance and Administration Services
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 156/2014)

8. Post: State Accountant (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Finance and Administration Services (Bookkeeping)
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post: National Office: Pretoria (1 Post) (Ref FS 157/2014)

9. Post: Personnel Practitioner (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Human Resource Management
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Location of the post:

Provincial CR & CSM: Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 158/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 159/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Middelburg: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 160/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: King Williamstown: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 161/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 162/2014)
Forensic Science Laboratory: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 163/2014)

10. Post: Personnel Practitioner (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Employee Relations
Section: Nodal Support Centre
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Provincial CR & CSM: Polokwane: Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 164/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 165/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 166/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Middelburg: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 167/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 168/2014)

11. Post: Warrant Officer
Section: Record Tracing: Local Criminal Record Centre:
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Protea Glen: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 169/2014)
Springs: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 170/2014)
Vereeniging: Gauteng: (1 Post) (Ref FS 171/2014)
Johannesburg: Gauteng: (1 Post) (Ref FS 172/2014)
Krugersdorp: Gauteng: (1 Post) (Ref FS 173/2014)
Ga-Rankuwa: Gauteng: (1 Post) (Ref FS 174/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Gauteng: (1 Post) (Ref FS 175/2014)

12. Post: Warrant Officer
Section: Adjudication: Local Criminal Record Centre:
Component: Criminal Record & Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Kempton Park: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 176/2014)
Lyttelton: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 177/2014)
Germiston: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 178/2014)
Pretoria North: Gauteng (1Post) (Ref FS 179/2014)
Sandton: Gauteng (1Post) (Ref FS 180/2014)
Protea-Glen: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 181/2014)
Springs: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 182/2014)
Vereeniging: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 183/2014)
Johannesburg: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 184/2014)
Krugersdorp: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 185/2014)
Ga-Rankuwa: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 186/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 187/2014)

13. Post: Warrant Officer
Section: Crime Scene Investigation
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 188/2014)
Mount Road: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 189/2014)
Provincial Task Team: Port Elizabeth: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 190/2014)
Vryburg: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 191/2014)
Brits: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 192/2014)
Potchefstroom: North West (1 Post) (Ref FS 193/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Kimberley: Northern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 194/2014)
Kimberley (Hartswater LCRC Service Point): Northern Cape (1Post) (Ref FS 195/2014)
Upington (Kakamas LCRC Service Point): Northern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 196/2014)
George: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 197/2014)
Mitchells Plain: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 198/2014)
Bellville: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 199/2014)
Cape Town: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 200/2014)
Lebowakgomo (Burgersfort LCRC Service Point): Limpopo (2 Posts) (Ref FS 201/2014)
Musina (Tshamutumbu LCRC Service Point): Limpopo (1 Post) (Ref FS 202/2014)
Acornhoek: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 203/2014)
Nelspruit: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 204/2014)
Provincial CR & CSM: Durban: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 205/2014)

14. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Section: Crime Scene Laboratories
Component: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management
Location of the post:

Bloemfontein: Free State (1 Post) (Ref FS 206/2014)
Mtubatuba: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 207/2014)
Middelburg: Eastern Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 208/2014)
Witbank: Mpumalanga (1 Post) (Ref FS 209/2014)

15. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Forensic Anthropology
Section: Victim Identification Centre
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Pretoria: Gauteng (1 Post) (Ref FS 210/2014)

16. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub-Section: Handwriting Analysis
Section: Questioned Documents
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal (1 Post) (Ref FS 211/2014)

17. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Image Analysis
Section: Scientific Analysis
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 212/2014)

18. Post: Forensic Analyst (Warrant Officer)
Sub Section: Mechanical Engineering
Section: Ballistics
Component: Forensic Science Laboratory
Location of the post: Plattekloof: Western Cape (1 Post) (Ref FS 213/2014)

19. Post: Warrant Officer (Forensic Analyst)
Component: Quality Management
Section: Quality Assurance
Sub-Section/ Location of the post:

Chemistry: Amanzimtoti: Kwazulu-Natal [1 post] (Ref FS 214/2014)
Victim Identification Centre: Pretoria: Gauteng [1 post] (Ref FS 215/2014)
Scientific Analysis: Plattekloof: Western Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 216/2014)
Scientific Analysis: Pretoria: Gauteng [1 post] (Ref FS 217/2014)
Questioned Documents: Amanzimtoti: KwaZulu-Natal [1 post] (Ref FS 218/2014)
Questioned Documents: Pretoria: Gauteng [1 post] (Ref FS 219/2014)

20. Post: Warrant Officer (Forensic Analyst)
Component: Quality Management
Section: Technical Management: Forensic Science Laboratory
Sub-Section:

Biology: Pretoria: Gauteng [1 post] (Ref FS 220/2014)
Regional Laboratory: Plattekloof: Western Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 221/2014)
Chemistry: Plattekloof: Western Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 222/2014)

21. Post: Warrant Officer (Forensic Analyst)
Component: Quality Management
Section: Regional Quality Management: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: LCRC: Quality Control
Location of Post:

Cape Town: Western Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 223/2014)
King Williams Town: Eastern Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 224/2014)
Durban: Kwazulu-Natal [1 post] (Ref FS 225/2014)
Kimberley: Northern Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 226/2014)
Potchefstroom: North West [1 post] (Ref FS 227/2014)
Middelburg: Mpumalanga [1 post] (Ref FS 228/2014)
Polokwane: Limpopo [1 post] (Ref FS 229/2014)
Bloemfontein: Free State [1 post] (Ref FS 230/2014)
Johannesburg: Gauteng [1 post] (Ref FS 231/2014)

22. Post: Warrant Officer (Forensic Analyst)
Component: Quality Management
Section: Regional Quality Management: Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management: LCRC: Quality Assurance
Location of Post:

Cape Town: Western Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 232/2014)
King Williams Town: Eastern Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 233/2014)
Durban: Kwazulu-Natal [1 post] (Ref FS 234/2014)
Kimberley: Northern Cape [1 post] (Ref FS 235/2014)
Potchefstroom: North West [1 post] (Ref FS 236/2014)
Middelburg: Mpumalanga [1 post] (Ref FS 237/2014)
Polokwane: Limpopo [1 post] (Ref FS 238/2014)
Bloemfontein: Free State [1 post] (Ref FS 239/2014)
Johannesburg: Gauteng [1 post] (Ref FS 240/2014)

GENERAL:

Only the official application form (available on the SAPS website and at SAPS recruitment offices) will be accepted. The Z83 previously utilized will no longer be accepted. All instructions on the application form must be adhered to and previous criminal convictions must be declared. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of the application.

The post particulars and reference number of the post must be correctly specified on the application form. A separate application form must be completed for each post.

Persons who retired from the Public Service by taking a severance package, early retirement or for medical reasons, as well as persons with previous convictions, are excluded.

A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae must be submitted together with the application form.

Certified copies (certification preferably by Police Officers) of an applicant’s ID document, motor vehicle driver’s license (Police Act appointments), Senior Certificate and all educational qualifications obtained together with academic records (statement of results) thereof and service certificates of previous employers stating the occupation and the period, must also be submitted and attached to every application. The copies must be correctly certified on the copy itself, not at the back. The certification must not be older than three months.

APPLICANTS ARE REQUESTED TO INITIAL EACH AND EVERY PAGE OF THE APPLICATION FORM, CV INCLUDING ALL ANNEXURES.

All qualifications and driver’s licenses submitted will be subjected to verification checking with the relevant institutions. The South African Police Service will conduct reference checks.

The closing date for the applications is 2014-11-21. Applications must be mailed timeously. Late applications will not be accepted or considered.

Appointments will be made in terms of the SAPS Act or Public Service Act as applicable to the post environment.

If a candidate is short-listed, it can be expected of him/her to undergo a personal interview.

Successful applicants to be appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) and not yet applicants appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act no 68 of 1995) will have to undergo a medical examination and found to be medically fit. They will further have to comply with the prescripts on the SAPS Dress Order, whereby tattoos may not be visible when wearing uniform, must be willing to undergo the prescribed Introductory Police Development Learning Programme and are expected to work flexi hours or shifts in the execution of their duties.

Short-listed candidates for appointment to certain identified posts, will be vetted in terms of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act No 32 of 2007) and the Children’s Act, 2005 (Act No 38 of 2005). A candidate, whose particulars appear in either the National Register for Sex Offenders or Part B of the Child Protection Register, will be disqualified from appointment to that post.

All short-listed candidates will be subjected to fingerprint screening.

Correspondence will be conducted with successful candidates only. If you have not been contacted within three (3) months after the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

The South African Police Service is under no obligation to fill a post after the advertisement thereof.

The South African Police Service is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and it is the intention to promote representivity in the Public Service through the filling of these posts. Persons whose transfer/appointment/promotion will promote representivity will therefore receive preference.

Applications and enquiries can be directed to:
Lt Colonel Klopper / Lieutenant Moonsamy
Tel: (012) 421-0194
Tel: (012) 421-0584

Postal Address:
Private Bag X 322
PRETORIA
0001

Hand Delivery:
Cnr Beckett and Pretorius Street
Strelitzia Building
Arcadia
0083

Tags: job vancancies, SAPS
Posted in DNA Project, Forensic Career, Latest News, Press | Comments Off on SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – November 2014

What is Forensic Toxicology?

Thu, Oct 2nd, 2014

The field of forensic science has come a long way – this is particularly true in the area of forensic toxicology, which is both fascinating and important for many applications. Forensic toxicology deals with the investigation of toxic substances, environmental chemicals or poisonous products. If you have ever been asked to take a drug test for work or you know someone who has, then you are already familiar with one of the applications of forensic toxicology. The toxicology part refers to the methods used to study these substances. Forensic toxicology is actually a bit of a mix of many other scientific disciplines such as chemistry, pathology and biochemistry. It also shares ties with some of the environmental sciences.

Using Forensic Toxicology Today

Forensic toxicologists perform toxicology screens, which involve looking for unusual chemicals in the body.

Currently, this area of forensics has evolved to mean the study of illegal drugs and legal ones such as alcohol. Forensic toxicology can even identify poisons and hazardous chemicals. The chemical makeup of each substance is studied and they are also identified from different sources such as urine or hair. Forensic toxicology deals with the way that substances are absorbed, distributed or eliminated in the body – the metabolism of substances. When learning about drugs and how they act in the body, forensic toxicology will study where the drug affects the body and how this occurs.

Obtaining Samples for Toxicology Testing

Before toxicology testing can go forward, samples need to be taken. You might be surprised to know just how many parts of your body can produce samples that are effective for identifying drugs. One example is urine, which is commonly used in forensic toxicology. It’s an easy sample to obtain and relatively rapid and non-invasive. It can show substances even several weeks after their ingestion. One example would be the drug marijuana, which can be detected even two weeks following use of the drug. When a urine sample is taken, however, there are sometimes rules and regulations around how the sample is collected. If the testing was related to workplace drug testing, a person could substitute a sample from someone else that would then show a negative result. For this reason, there are sometimes parameters around reasonable supervision when a person has to provide a urine sample.

Blood samples are another body sample used for forensic toxicology. A huge range of toxic substances can be tested from a blood sample. You may already be familiar with blood alcohol testing used to assess if a person was driving under the influence of alcohol. This type of testing is important in assessing if a driver is above the legal limit and it is also used to prove a case in court.

Hair samples are a good way to test for substance abuse that has occurred over the long-term. After a person ingests a chemical, it ends up in the hair, where it can provide forensic toxicologists with an estimate of the intensity and duration of drug use. Hair testing is even offered quite widely by companies that allow you to mail in a hair sample and check off the drugs you want checked. Saliva is another way that forensic toxicologists can test for drugs. It does, however, depend on the drug in terms of identifying its concentration. One of the more unusual sounding but interesting ways that the human body can be used for forensic toxicology involves the gastric contents in a deceased person. During the autopsy, a sample of the person’s gastric contents can be analysed, which then allows the forensic toxicologist to assess if the person took any pills or liquids before their death. The brain, liver and spleen can even be used during toxicology testing.

Forensic Toxicology Applications

While there are many uses for forensic toxicology testing, the most familiar one to most people is likely to be drug and alcohol testing. This type of testing is commonly performed in the transportation industry and in workplaces. Another use is for drug overdoses, whether these are intended or accidental. People who drive with a blood alcohol concentration over the accepted legal limit can also be assessed through toxicology testing. Another application of forensic toxicology relates to sexual assault that involves the use of drugs. Various drugs are used today for the purposes of rendering the victim unable to fight the attacker, who then proceeds to sexually assault the victim. Through toxicology testing, a victim can find out what drug was given and can then be treated accordingly.

There are a lot of substances and poisons in our world – many of which impact how we function in work and society. For some people, these substances can influence their death. Fortunately, forensic toxicology testing allows forensic scientists to identify substances and determine a pattern of use. In this way, a forensic toxicologist can provide closure on the ‘what if’ of a person’s drug habits or perhaps some mystery surrounding their death.

This article first appeared on Explore Forensics on the 4th of September 2014 and was authored by Ian Murnaghan – BSc (hons), MSc.

Tags: forensic toxicology
Posted in Crime Scenes, Forensic Career | Comments Off on What is Forensic Toxicology?

#WomenInHealth: an interview with Senior Forensic Pathologist, Dr Linda Liebenberg

Thu, Sep 4th, 2014

Lodox interviews forensic pathologist Dr Linda Liebenberg as part of their #WomenInHealth series commemorating the work of South African female health-care professionals, with the aim of inspiring more young women to join the sciences and health-care professions, and was first published online by Stef Steiner on 1 September 2014.

Dr Linda Liebenberg - “This is not a day job, it’s a profession. There is always more to be done.”

Dr Liebenberg aptly describes her typical day-at-the-office as both “mad and deadly”.

Qualified with an MBChB degree in Forensic Medicine and a masters degree in Forensic Pathology, Linda has spent 14 years studying to reach her current joint appointment as Senior Forensic Pathologist at the Western Cape Department of Health and as an academic lecturer at the University of Cape Town. Dr Liebenberg gained her qualifications from the schools of Medicine at the University of Stellenbosch and the University of Cape Town.

What does a typical day look like for you? What do you do in your work hours?

My work at the Department of Health is spread over service delivery: completing forensic autopsies; compiling reports for court; testifying in court; police consultation and visiting crime sites. I teach both under-graduate and post-graduate students at the University of Cape Town, and conduct ongoing research.

What attracted you to the work you do? Why did you enter this field?

My first attraction was to Anatomical Pathology and when I stumbled into Forensic Pathology, I was hooked. Apart from medicine, it combines a large number of disciplines, as well as practical application. Through forensic pathology I have and can gain knowledge of a human before they are born, and long after their death.

Who inspires you? Who is your hero?

I am inspired by the rare case that actually works out, and being able to give a family clarity on how a family member died.

My hero is any police officer who does their job despite the challenges and who is still dedicated to their jobs 100%. Committed police work inspires me.

What was your biggest challenge to getting to where you are today in your career?

My biggest challenge was realizing the number of hours, years and the amount of money I have had to put into training. This continues to be a challenge to me as a professional.

What do you think is the biggest health challenge in Africa?

Drugs, alcohol, malnutrition, as well as a lack of both facilities and health-care professionals. Our systems cannot accommodate the current need. There is an imbalance between supply and demand. We have a reckless society characterized by road accidents and domestic violence, which takes up billions [of rands] of government money which could be used to help prevent disease and find cures.

What motivates you and keeps you going/striving for more?

I am faced with something interesting, daily, I’m never bored. I strive for getting the answers right.

Do you have any advice for young women entering a career in medicine?

You can do it!

When I started medicine, in my first year, a lot of people kept asking me what I will do in my second year. I proved to them that I am capable!

Also, it’s important to remember that medicine is not the glamour that you see on television.

What do you do for fun or to de-stress?

I garden, read a lot and watch forensic television series like ‘Body of Proof’.

Read up more on the work of Dr Liebenberg and her colleagues at the Salt River Morgue: http://mg.co.za/article/2014-05-01-tales-from-the-morgue

Tags: forensic pathology
Posted in Crime Scenes, Forensic Career | Comments Off on #WomenInHealth: an interview with Senior Forensic Pathologist, Dr Linda Liebenberg

Forensic Meteorologists Solve Crimes You’ve Never Thought About

Thu, Aug 28th, 2014

The fascinating world of forensic science has a wide array of disciplines which are often called upon to help solve a crime. One such discipline you may not have thought existed is that of Forensic Meteorology.

The following is an interesting article published by Mika McKinnon on space.io9.com (12 August 2014) which takes a close look at how meteorology can be utilised in an investigation.

Forensic meteorology is the science of using historic weather records, atmospheric data, eyewitness accounts, and reenactment simulations to determine the weather conditions at a specific time and location.

A forensic meteorologists’s analysis might be to corroborate or invalidate an alibi, provide context for an accident, or even to determine if the conditions could have been reasonably anticipated or were a freak chance event.

A storm washed this car off the road and down the mountains in San Bernadino. Who is responsible: the storm, the road, the tires, or the driver? Image credit: AP/Nick Ut

It’s very BBC Sherlock to contemplate using the weather to solve crimes. In the opening case of the first episode, Sherlock pairs observations of asymmetrical mud splatter and a lack of umbrella with local weather reports to deduce a victim’s probable activities before the murder. While real-life forensic meteorology lacks the thrilling pacing and distinctive visual style of Sherlock, it is a real field of science used for everything from murder trials to insurance claims.

Forensic meteorology has been used in all sorts of circumstances. While writing for Physics Today, Elizabeth Austin and Peter Hildebrand tracked down a slew of court cases where a meteorologist was employed as an expert witness, including: murders, suicides, bombings, vehicle accidents, traffic accidents, skiing accidents, bad aircraft landings, kitesurfing accidents, agricultural disputes, property insurance disputes, building collapses, people slipping and falling, fires, and as a defence for stealing, looting, or trespassing. The range of weather involved in this cases can be equally as diverse — rain, snow, ice, tornadoes, hurricanes, air pollution, drought, floods, microbursts and epic storms can all lead to situations where a meteorologist takes the stand to carefully explain what the weather conditions were and how it impacted the environment.

One of the first instances of involving weather in the process of law was in the late 1800s, after a minister organized a community prayer for rain during a severe drought. Within the hour, a storm rolled in, dumping just under 2 inches of rain, washing out a bridge, and burning down a barn with a lightning strike. The barn’s owner had been the only objector to the prayer, having declared that humans had no place to meddle in the affairs of nature. Seeing the loss of his barn as vindication for his belief, he sued the minister to replace his barn. The minister fought back, his counsel arguing that while they’d asked for rain, the lightning was a “a gratuitous gift of God.” The court agreed, dismissing the claim.

The relative frequency of particular weather events is a common theme in civil cases. Did a city adequately anticipate normal severe rainfall when designing their sewer system and were overwhelmed by an unpredictable freak event, or did they underestimate the predictable pattern of storms and fail to build an adequate system? When a roof collapses under the weight of piled snow, was it a failure of engineering to build for the expected environment, or was the roof adequate and the snowfall far above any reasonable expectation? A forensic meteorologist’s analysis of the relative rarity of specific high-impact events can be pivotal testimony in determining fault during the subsequent insurance and building disputes.

Not every expert’s testimony influences the case’s outcome. A driver was hit by a piece of falling ice while crossing a bridge, with the fragment breaking his windshield and hitting him in the eye. He claimed the ice was part of an icicle breaking free of the bridge, while the local transportation authority claimed the ice must have been flung off a passing truck. The forensic meteorologist testified that ice from a truck while be opaque, while an icicle growing on the bridge would be clear. An eyewitness said the ice was clear, leading the meteorologist to support the driver’s accusation. Despite this, the jury found in favour of the bridge, concluding that a truck was responsible for flinging ice.

Like any other expert witness, a forensic meteorologist in the United States is bound by the Federal Rules of Evidence, specifically by Rule 702:

A witness who is qualified as an expert by knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education may testify in the form of an opinion or otherwise if:

(a) the expert’s scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge will help the trier of fact to understand the evidence or to determine a fact in issue;

(b) the testimony is based on sufficient facts or data;

(c) the testimony is the product of reliable principles and methods; and

(d) the expert has reliably applied the principles and methods to the facts of the case.

The first requirement is that a meteorologist is actually a meteorologist. While technically this is an unlicensed profession so anyone can work as a meteorologist, most who get called to the stand have voluntarily submitted to certification from their professional organization.

From there, the rule requires that meteorology is relevant to the case, that the analysis is based on reality, that their analysis uses logical processes, and that the expert is sufficiently objective to let their analysis determine their conclusions irrelevant of the human context. That last bit can be difficult: a forensic meteorologist’s interpretations and professional opinions must be guided by facts, not by their personal opinions or sympathies.

A perfect example of this is an ongoing legal dispute stemming from a mess of a storm in 2011. On April 27^th, cold, dry air coming south from Canada smashed into warm, moist air surging north from the Gulf of Mexico. A jet stream flowing north-east made the whole situation worse, swirling colliding air masses into into supercells. The first wave hit in the morning, thunderstorms and tornadoes crossing the southeastern United States; the second wave hit hours later. Seven states were impacted, with Alabama baring the brunt of the damage. After the storms died off, the insurance companies and property owners were left trying to determine which damage was caused by the straight-on winds of thunderstorms, and which was caused by the rotating winds of a tornado.

Over three years later, it’s still To Be Determined, with forensic meteorologists using digital weather radar, surface weather observations, and reports to determine the timing, extent, duration, and strength of events, and, from that, the nature of the damaging winds. As insurance policies can easily cover one type of damage but not the other, the outcome of the meteorologists’ analysis will have a massive economic impact on the storms’ survivors. For their sake, I dearly hope the meteorologists involved in these cases have no idea which insurance policies cover what damage for which homeowners, leaving them free to do their jobs without feeling guilty over the consequences.

In one of the more intimately bloody cases of weather in the law, an accused murderer claimed he sustained a scratch on his hand while snowboarding with his son and not during the attack. The forensic meteorologist on the case testified that it was raining at the time of the alleged snowboarding. Not only would that be a memorable detail neglected by the suspect, the rain should have melted the meagre snowpack, leaving the slopes impossibly bare for snowboarding. This testimony was enough to discredit the suspect’s claim, a small piece of evidence adding to the collected whole that eventually saw the murder convicted.

No dew-soaked footprints, no intruder. Image credit: AP/Al Behrman

In a different murder trial, a husband was accused of murdering his wife. He claimed an intruder did it. The forensic meteorologists were able to determine that the neighbourhood, particularly the grass around the house, would have been soaked with dew at the time of the murder. Any intruder would have left soggy footprints, something clearly lacking at the crime scene. This was enough to once again disprove the proposed intruder, helping narrow down theoretical suspects in the murder.

The examples keep on coming. Every major natural catastrophe will bring out forensic meteorologists to determine what exactly happened. Inclement weather will elicit attempts to blame any accidents on the weather, leading meteorologists to decide where weather fits along with human judgement, company policies, and equipment limitations. As we expect to keep getting more intense and more frequent extreme weather events as climate changes, forensic meteorology is just going to keep getting more important in sorting out what happened and how predictable it was.

While for now it’s a somewhat obscure, forensic meteorology is slowly gaining credibility as yet another way of bringing science and fact-based testimony into the courtroom. Even better, the amount of data available to pull into these cases is extensive, with detailed radar archives, rainfall gauges, volunteer observer reports, wind maps, and more to help meteorologists with their analysis. But the real question is: how will forensic meteorology be glamorized when it makes its inevitable break into the television with its own crime-solving hero?

Posted in Crime Scenes, Forensic Career | Comments Off on Forensic Meteorologists Solve Crimes You’ve Never Thought About

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Archive for the ‘Forensic Career’ Category

SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – August 2015

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SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – July 2015

What is Forensic Photography?

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SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – March 2015

SAPS Forensic Services: Available Posts – November 2014

What is Forensic Toxicology?

#WomenInHealth: an interview with Senior Forensic Pathologist, Dr Linda Liebenberg

Forensic Meteorologists Solve Crimes You’ve Never Thought About

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