Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations

Introduction

The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is recruiting for a Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations to join their team in Meriden.

As a general-funded position located within the Administrative Section of the laboratory that reports to the Division Director. The Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations position will oversee the laboratory technical operations to enhance the cross-sectional analyses in the continually expanding scope and complexity of the forensic laboratory.

The Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations will be responsible for the continuity of operations across the sections of the laboratory, ensuring optimal efficiency of analysis. The technically responsible individual is essential to oversee SOP's and equipment validation for the laboratory.

This position is full-time, onsite, 40 hours per week, scheduled Monday through Friday.

We are seeking individuals with a minimum of a master’s degree in forensic science or a closely related field and nine (9) years of professional experience in forensic analysis of evidentiary material of which three (3) years of experience in the supervision of the activities of a forensic laboratory section consisting of several specialized units engaged in selecting and conducting highly complex tests to analyze evidence.

The Division of Scientific Services serves as the forensic laboratory for the State of Connecticut, providing critical support to local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies across the state. The Division is structured into three primary analytical sections:

• Chemical Analysis Section – encompassing toxicology, controlled substances, and general chemistry
• Forensic Biology/DNA Section – specializing in the analysis of biological evidence and DNA profiling
• Identification Section – including firearms/toolmarks, latent prints and digital/computer crimes analysis

In addition, the Division is supported by two non-analytical sections:

• Quality Section – responsible for maintaining laboratory accreditation and quality assurance standards
• Laboratory Support Services Section – which includes administration, evidence receiving, and case management functions

Together, these sections work collaboratively to ensure the delivery of high-quality forensic services in support of Connecticut’s criminal justice system.

RECRUITMENT INFORMATION:
Candidates selected for an interview must provide the following at the time of interview:

• State Employees
• Two (2) most recent performance evaluations
• Completed CT-HR-13

Candidates who have been selected for employment with the Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection are subject to a detailed background investigation, including a fingerprint supported state and federal criminal history record check along with reference checks. Selection for employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of the background investigation. Any pending disciplinary history within the past 2 years and review of attendance records are also considered in this selection process.

In the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Scientific Services this class is accountable for directing the State Forensic Science Laboratory, which conducts complex tests and analyses to identify the properties of physical evidence resulting from criminal and civil actions in the state.

• Directs staff and operations of the State Forensic Science Laboratory
• Coordinates, plans and manages laboratory activities
• Formulates program goals and objectives
• Develops or assists in development of related policy
• Interprets and administers pertinent laws
• Evaluates staff
• Prepares or assists in preparation of laboratory budget
• Maintains contacts with individuals within and outside of laboratory who might impact on program activities
• Examines, analyzes and identifies evidence in complex cases
• Conducts crime scene searches and participates in major crime scene investigations
• Trains laboratory staff, police and fire personnel in techniques utilized for gathering and analyzing evidence
• Prepares highly…