Forensic Chemist II - Limited Service

Title:

Forensic Chemist II
- Limited Service

Final date to receive applications Date: 08/06/2026

Department:
Public Safety

Location:

Waterbury, VT, US

Position Type:
Limited Service

Schedule Type:
Full Time

Minimum Salary: $29.73

Maximum Salary: $46.49

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has a Biology position available in our accredited Forensic laboratory.

Responsibilities include adherence to quality assurance and operational procedures, examination for biological fluids, analysis of DNA samples, accurate documentation, and providing expert witness testimony. This position is supervised by the Senior Forensic Chemist/DNA Technical Leader. Candidates should have an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis (such as biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics). Coursework in statistics and/or population genetics is highly preferred.

This is a limited service position currently funded through 9/30/2027 with Federal funding appropriated on an annual basis. The position is expected to continue beyond 2027.

This position,
Forensic Chemist II
- Limited Service (Job Requisition #55298), is open to all State employees and external applicants. This is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized for a specific period of time. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs.

PUBLIC SAFETY BACKGROUND CHECKS:
Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).

Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to noxious or harmful fumes and chemicals and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment. Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator's license.

Master's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, forensic science, or a related science field.

OR

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, forensic science, or a related science field AND EITHER two (2) years or more of professional laboratory experience performing biochemical, organic, physical, or toxicological chemical analysis OR one (1) year or more of professional forensic laboratory experience performing analysis on items of forensic evidence.

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status.

The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.