Forensic Scientist ; Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option – Chemistry and Crime Scene​/Fi

Position Title:

Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) – Chemistry and Crime Scene/Field Investigation Disciplines

Initial Posting Date: 07/23/2026 Final date to receive applications: 08/20/2026 Agency:
Oregon State Department of Police Salary Range: $7,767 - $10,529 Position Type:
Employee

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Central Point, Oregon is hiring for one (1) Full-Time, Permanent Forensic Scientist position. To learn more about the Forensic Services Division, . If you require an alternate format to complete the employment process, or to request a copy of the position description, please contact osp.recruitinggon.gov and reference REQ-203993. The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

• Apply objective, scientific, and critical thinking skills to independently plan and problem solve challenges related to casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene/Field Investigation disciplines, which meets the quality standards of the Division.
• Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in the response rotation as outlined in the Oregon State Police Officers Association (OSPOA) Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Perform independent casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene/Field Investigation disciplines, which meets the quality standards of the Division.
• Perform accurate and timely analysis of evidence according to Division policies and procedures.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports to conform to accreditation standards, Division policies and procedures, and court proceedings.
• Manage assigned caseload while maintaining timely communications with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys’ offices, defense counsel, and Forensic Services Division employees.
• Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.
• Prepare necessary reagents, standards, and controls to ensure quality results and act as a resource to support Forensic Services Division analysts.
• Receive and provide training related to assigned duties and perform other duties as needed or requested by the Laboratory Director or other supervisors of the Oregon State Police.
• Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.
• Assume added responsibilities as authorized.

Five years experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited Forensic Laboratory AND a Bachelor's degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology or a closely related field.

Please note:

A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification. If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.

A Bachelor's degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology, or a closely related field.

Please note:

A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification. If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.

Demonstrated experience performing laboratory procedures or other tasks, to include creating and modifying documentation, with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to self-initiate tasks, effectively manage time, and prioritize competing demands to meet both scheduled and unexpected deadlines. Demonstrated ability to analyze information objectively and critically, sometimes in time-sensitive…