Forensic Scientist - Seized Drugs

Location: New Windsor

Duties Description Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs

Entry level for scientists with no previous forensic lab experience. Must successfully complete training in Seized Drugs under the guidance of the Supervisor of Forensic Services and/or Technical Coordinator. Appropriate training with competency and/or proficiency tests will be completed before assuming any casework.

Analyzes submitted evidence using instrumentation and required techniques, adhering to security protocols and policies; interprets result sand findings for use in court; prepares data for interpretation by higher level State Police Forensic Scientists; uses automated systems to record results; and maintains and enhances expertise and technical proficiency in the field of forensics. Will inform the appropriate supervisor of any unusual or unexpected developments that may occur during his/her analysis.

Be familiar with, and aware of work completed and analyses performed in other laboratory sections.

Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs

Will be proficient in all the duties of a Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs.

Continues training in Seized Drugs; performs analysis on case work that is of limited technical complexity utilizing established procedures; plans and executes analyses using the necessary instrumentation and techniques according to proper quality control procedures so results and findings can be interpreted and reported for court purposes.

When standard procedures are not applicable, the Forensic Scientist 2 will discuss alternate or modified methodologies with the Supervisor of Forensic Services, Technical Coordinator or designated Forensic Scientist 3 prior to conducting analysis.
Will be expected to maintain and enhance his/her expertise and maintain technical proficiency in the field of forensic Drug Chemistry.

Forensic Scientist 3 - Seized Drugs

Will be proficient in all the duties of a Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs.

Will perform analyses of complex cases, work with little supervision, and exercise considerable independent judgment in evaluating possible alternative methods of analysis and modify existing methodology to fit particular investigations, subject to approval of the Supervisor of Forensic Services and/or Technical Coordinator.

Will interpret data and results derived from analyses and report findings and conclusions. Reviews casework of other examiners for peer review and provides training for State Police Forensic Scientists 1.

Will be proficient in the use of scientific techniques and instrumentation and be expected to perform troubleshooting and maintenance tasks within the section.

May be required to assume the duties of the Supervisor of Forensic Services and/or Technical Coordinator in his/her absence.

Minimum Qualifications Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs

A Bachelor's Degree in the natural sciences, physical sciences, or forensic science. A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include laboratory work with an emphasis on upper-level coursework in chemistry, biology or other natural/physical sciences. All transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility.

Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs
A Bachelor's Degree in the natural sciences, physical sciences, or forensic science. A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include laboratory work with an emphasis on upper-level coursework in chemistry, biology or other natural/physical sciences. All transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility.

AND

Have a minimum of eighteen months satisfactory experience performing the duties of a Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs or its equivalent in another laboratory.

AND

If applicable, have gained experience in testimony as an expert witness and have established his/her credentials as an expert in various courts of record.

Forensic Scientist 3 - Seized Drugs
A Bachelor's Degree in the natural sciences, physical sciences, or forensic science. A degree in forensic science must include a concentration in biology or chemistry and include laboratory work with an emphasis on upper-level coursework in chemistry, biology or other natural/physical sciences. All transcripts will be reviewed to determine eligibility.

AND

Have a minimum of four years satisfactory experience performing the duties of a Forensic Scientist - Seized Drugs or its equivalent in another laboratory.

AND

If applicable, experience in testimony as an expert witness and have established his/her credentials as an expert in various courts of record.

Minimum qualifications must be met by the time of appointment.

Additional Comments Starting Salaries:

Forensic Scientist 1 - Seized Drugs, SG-14 - $53,764.00.
Forensic Scientist 2 - Seized Drugs, SG-18 - $66,951.00.
Forensic Scientist 3 - Seized Drugs, SG-20 - $74,193.00.

Resumes will be evaluated to determine whether candidates will proceed to the interview phase of the process.

The New York State Police will not offer permanent employment to any…