Forensic Scientist , II, III; Forensic Chemistry Unit), Grade 20

Salary

• Forensic Scientist I: $67,672 - $102,385
• Forensic Scientist II: $76,742 - $120,956
• Forensic Scientist III: $83,556 - $134,086

The MCPD has approximately 1,300 sworn officers and 650 support personnel, established in 1922, serving a county with over one million residents.

The MCPD seeks an accomplished forensic science professional to serve as a Forensic Scientist in the Forensic Chemistry Unit within the Forensic Science and Evidence Management Division.

As a team committed to excellence, innovation, and service, MCPD offers an opportunity to impact public safety and the justice system.

• Analyze physical evidence using techniques such as weighing protocols, macroscopic and microscopic examinations, color tests, GC–MS, and FT–IR.
• Interpret analytical data and issue laboratory reports.
• Testify in court as an expert witness.
• Maintain quality assurance and chain‑of‑custody standards.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff, law enforcement, attorneys, external labs, peers, accrediting bodies, and community members.

Forensic Scientist Series: Position will be filled within Forensic Scientist I through III based on experience and training. Subsequent promotions are non‑competitive.

Experience

• Forensic Scientist I (Grade 20):
  Entry‑level; trainee, not expected to be a qualified scientist.
• Forensic Scientist II (Grade 22):
  Minimum 2 years full‑time professional experience conducting examinations of controlled dangerous substances.
• Forensic Scientist III (Grade 25):
  Minimum 4 years full‑time professional experience conducting examinations of controlled dangerous substances.

Education

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in natural, physical, or forensic science, including courses in analytical and organic chemistry. Candidates must be eligible for verification by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) under COMAR 10.10.09.

Equivalency

Equivalent combinations of scientific education and experience may be substituted.

Preferred Criteria – Forensic Scientist I

• Experience in an accredited forensic laboratory.
• Experience using GC–MS and FT–IR instrumentation.

Preferred Criteria – Forensic Scientist II

• Experience as an authorized analyst in Seized Drugs.
• Expertise in Seized Drug analysis in court.
• Experience using GC–MS and FT–IR instrumentation.
• Report writing in an accredited forensic laboratory.

Preferred Criteria – Forensic Scientist III

• Experience as an authorized analyst in Seized Drugs.
• Expertise in Seized Drug analysis in court.
• Experience using GC–MS and FT–IR instrumentation.
• Report writing in an accredited forensic laboratory.
• Project development and/or validation.

Montgomery County Government is an equal opportunity employer, committed to workforce diversity. Reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities. Veterans and individuals with disabilities receive hiring preferences in accordance with applicable laws.