PURPOSE:

The purpose of this report is to request City Council approval of the revision to the specification for the classification of Forensic Specialist (CTC No. 0366).

BACKGROUND:

Recently during the recruitment and hiring process for the position of Forensic Specialist, a candidate was unable to pass the skills test because they were color blind. The current specification for this classification does not require applicants to have keen color perception, therefore this particular candidate made it through the screening process for this position.  However, in order for a Forensic Specialist to perform the essential functions of their position, it is necessary for them to possess keen color perception.  A Forensic Specialist must perform presumptive tests in the field for bodily fluids and must be able to discern chemical reaction color.  In addition, when comparing latent prints, the examiner must have the ability to see the whole spectrum of blacks and grays.  Therefore, the Police Department is requesting to include keen color perception as a requirement for this classification.

ANALYSIS & CONCLUSION:

Staff is proposing to revise the Minimum Qualification section of this specification to include keen color perception as a special condition and requirement.  It is an industry standard to require applicants for this classification to possess keen color perception and may have been overlooked when the specification for the classification of Forensic Specialist was initially established.  Additionally, staff is proposing certain portions of the Employment Standards be moved into Special Conditions & Requirements where they are more appropriate.  Finally, the proposed specification also includes additional clarifying language in the Education/Training portion of the specification.  This clarifying language identifies the major coursework that is acceptable for this classification.

The proposed revisions to the specification for the classification of Forensic Specialist will accurately reflect the requirements of the classification and meet the needs of the Department.  The Minimum Qualifications section has been revised to ensure that candidates for the classification have appropriate education/training and the special conditions and requirements necessary to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this position.

The classification will continue to be a Civil Service position, subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act, and will not be included in the City�s Conflict of Interest Code.  The Burbank City Employees Association (BCEA) will continue to represent the classification.  The BCEA has been advised of the revision.  The Police Chief concurs with this recommendation.  On July 12, 2007, the Civil Service Board (Board) approved the revision to the specification for this classification with the recommendation of including �driving on City business� as an essential function.  It is the City Attorney�s opinion that �driving on City business� is an essential function of this position.  Therefore, staff recommends that the City Council approve the establishment of this classification as approved by the Board.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There will be no fiscal impact associated with the revision of the specification for the classification of Forensic Specialist.  The salary will remain at its current range of $3,985 to $4,976.

RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommends that the City Council approve the proposed revision to the specification for the classification of Forensic Specialist (CTC No. 0366).

Attachments

Exhibit A � Proposed specification for Forensic Specialist

Exhibit B � Redline version of the proposed specification for Forensic Specialist