Forensic DNA Analyst - Grant Funded

Description / Position Overview

Two positions will be filled through this posting.

In this position, you will conduct forensic examinations on evidence submitted to the Metro Crime Lab for the purposes of recognition, identification, documentation, and scientific collection of the physical evidence pertaining to the investigation of a criminal act. In addition, perform all aspects of forensic DNA laboratory casework on evidentiary materials, including evaluation and preparation of evidence, DNA typing, interpretation of analytical results, preparation of case reports, and expert testimony.

This position is assigned to the Colorado Springs Metro Crime Laboratory, which is an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited lab.

This special (at-will) position is currently funded through the DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction grant into 2027, with the potential for extension based on future funding.

Come explore the possibilities a career with the City of Colorado Springs can offer!

• Examine evidence items to identify, preserve, collect, and photograph samples for analysis
• Perform presumptive and confirmatory testing on samples from a variety of evidence types related to various criminal cases
• Collect trace evidence
• Perform forensic DNA analysis from extraction, quantification, and PCR setup, through analysis using specialized instrumentation to develop DNA profiles
• Interpret scientific data and prepare meaningful reports for presentation to a judge and jury in a court of law
• Prepare detailed reports and documentation for investigative use and court proceedings
• Document, handle, package, and receive evidence to maintain chain of custody in accordance with forensic practices under state and federal laws
• Conduct technical reviews of serological and DNA analysis performed by other qualified analysts
• Provide expert testimony in federal, state, and local court proceedings on results of serology and DNA testing conducted
• Perform other duties by discussing cases and functions of the lab with officers, detectives, and attorneys
• Instruct others in forensics, DNA evidence collection, and provide training seminars
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Interact effectively with others, including other analysts in the DNA Unit and the laboratory
• May perform duties as a local CODIS administrator

• Extensive knowledge of modern forensic equipment and procedures
• Extensive knowledge of the workflow of a forensic crime lab
• Considerable knowledge of criminal law, criminal court proceedings, and rules of evidence
• Knowledge of DNA QAS documents and ISO 17025:2017 standards
• Knowledge and use of the CODIS database systems
• Knowledge of DNA statistical calculations
• Knowledge of computers and commonly used software programs
• Ability to give professional expert testimony in courts of law
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, coworkers, and other law‑enforcement/judicial personnel
• Ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written English, including public speaking
• Ability to apply sound reasoning and decision making
• Ability to interact in a professional manner with all staff
• Ability to get along with others
• Strong analytical and communication skills

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a related field of study
• Three years of full‑time, professional experience in a related field. Examples of related fields include experience in a laboratory performing STR forensics DNA testing for the identification and evaluation of biological evidence in criminal matters, including the successful analysis of a range of samples typically encountered in forensic casework

One year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (or one year of relevant academic coursework beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience).

• Graduate degree in a related field
• Demonstrated knowledge of and adherence to necessary DNA discipline specific requirements (continuing education, proficiency testing, etc.)…