Forensic Scientist (Chemist

This position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS ). The mission of the DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services using best practices and best available technology, focusing on unbiased science and transparency, to enhance public safety and health.

The position is responsible for conducting forensic chemistry analytical work, to include controlled dangerous substance analysis as well as surveillance testing. The work includes data analysis and interpretation of the complex composition of molecules, physical and chemical properties molecular structure and chemical reactions. The position supervises all aspects of technology in positioning DFS as a national leader in technology; and works in conjunction with the laboratory managers, supervisors, and technical leader to ensure that technology and unit operations align with departmental goals and services.

Duties and Responsibilities

Performs laboratory analyses of physical evidence and surveillance samples within the forensic chemistry discipline of the FSL, demonstrates competency and on-going proficiency in laboratory processing, interpretation, and technical review as authorized by the technical leader; participate in and completes externally administrated proficiency test; ensures methodologies and procedures used are compliant with established standards, and is responsible for quality assurance and accreditation compliance activities.

Completes an advance research project and/or performs a vital role in the overall operation of the unit by independently performing a high-level task such as training and/or overseeing training of scientists, developing, and validating new processes and procedures, or overseeing biosurveillance program.

Qualifications and Education

Basic Requirements:

Degree: physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics.

OR

Combination of education and experience - course work equivalent to a major as shown in A above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience, or additional education.

Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licenses and Certifications

N/A

Working Conditions/Environment

This position’s duty station will be housed within the Consolidated Forensic Laboratory (CFL) which is a protection-sensitive facility. As such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing, as applicable.

Due to the handling of primary evidence, the applicant will be required to submit a buccal swab for the purposes of the DNA Quality Control database for the DFS.

The work environment includes office setting,laboratory conditions, training facility, and courtrooms. The incumbent may be exposed to hazardous materials, toxic substances, blood borne pathogens, and is required to follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing, including facial masks, safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, etc.

The nature of the DFS mission necessarily involves the potential risks associated with biological or…