Forensic Science Technician

Organization Background

The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa.

DPS is comprised of the following divisions:

• Iowa State Patrol
• Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI)
• Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement
• Iowa State Fire Marshal
• Division of Professional Development and Support Services
• Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center
• Administrative Services Division

The Forensic Science Technician (FST) position will be assigned to the DNA section of the DCI Crime Laboratory and is a technical support role for forensic and database laboratory operations.

• Instrument maintenance
• Accessioning DNA database samples and data entry
• Screening and sampling items of evidence
• Operate analytical laboratory instrumentation to perform robotic sampling, DNA extraction, quantitation, normalization, direct amplification, traditional PCR amplification, and capillary electrophoresis to process DNA samples up to the point that the DNA data is ready for interpretation by a Criminalist
• Document testing results, prepare reports, and testify in court regarding work performed on cases
• Triage laboratory submissions and communicate with laboratory stakeholders to determine case status and evidence priorities
• Convert and electronically store case reports and case files, and maintain an inventory of chemicals, reagents, and laboratory consumables
• Prepare reagents, record daily cooler temperatures, manage biohazard and regular waste for the DNA section, and perform other duties as assigned

• Associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related scientific field (a bachelor's or advanced degree in one of these disciplines is also acceptable)
• Successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by Iowa Department of Public Safety investigators before a final letter of employment offer is delivered
• Be able to travel and may be required to stay away from home overnight during assignments
• Possess or be able to obtain and maintain a valid Iowa Driver’s License
• This is not a remote position
• State of Iowa is an E-Verify Employer

• Paid Time Off
  • Vacation accruals that begin on day one and rollover on a yearly basis
  • Unlimited sick leave accrual
  • Nine (9) paid holidays per year
• Insurance Options
  • Health – Affordable plans with the state paying more than 90% of premiums
  • Dental – Dental free for single coverage and affordable family coverage with access to a vision discount program
  • Life – $20,000 in life insurance free, with an option to purchase additional coverage (depending upon Collective Bargaining Agreements)
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance – Available at no cost
• Retirement
  • IPERS Retirement package offering a lifetime monthly financial benefit for vested employees. For every $1 an employee contributes, the state matches with $1.50
  • Retirement Investors’ Club (RIC) offering a voluntary savings program including a State match of up to $75/month
• Flexibility:
  Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
• Support:
  Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs

To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage.