Forensic Scientist Jobs

Position Number: 22090715
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 8/31/2023
Anticipated Starting Salary: 45010
Physical Evidence
The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state’s premier public safety agency. This is a Safety Sensitive position.
If you are requesting veteran’s preference, please include your DD214.
Authorities & Responsibilities
Specific responsibilities are as follows:

• Performs related responsibilities as required or assigned
• Researches scientific literature and exchanges information with peers in other states in order to stay abreast of the latest scientific advances in the analysis of criminal evidence and/or determine the best method of testing a particular piece of evidence.
• Conducts a series of analytical tests to identify biological fluids and locate areas that may be suitable for DNA testing. Hairs and fibers (tape lifts) may be collected for future analyses.
• Assists law enforcement agencies with on-site crime scene investigations after gaining approval from the Physical Evidence Section Chief. Any assistance provided is under the direction of the law enforcement agency in charge of the crime scene.
• Prepares reports of findings and conclusions for submission to legal authorities and courts of law.
• Writes articles, presents training, and provides consultation to law enforcement officers, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and other public officials on crime scene investigation concerning methods of collecting, transporting, and preserving evidence to ensure its integrity and maintenance of the chain of custody.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness on the analysis of evidence and conclusions reached.
• Reviews investigator's summary information to become familiar with the details of the crime and examines items of evidence to determine appropriate testing methods.

Minimum Qualifications
The Physical Evidence Analyst shall have at a minimum, a BS/BA degree in a biological, chemical, or forensic science. Before performing casework, the Physical Evidence Analyst will be required to successfully complete a training program that will include competency sample testing, written and oral examination, and a mock trial.
Position Information
Class Code: B053C
Grade: GS08
FLSA Status: EXEMPT
Salary Range: $45,010.00 - $65,265.00
Summary
The Forensic Scientist is responsible for the examination of evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. After the examination has been completed, the results must be interpreted and a report prepared. Also, the analyst must be prepared to testify as an expert witness to their findings. This position is governed by state and federal laws agency/institution policy.
Functions
Designs and conducts a series of analytical tests, including chemistry (Controlled Substances, Trace Evidence and Toxicology), biology (DNA, CODIS, and Serology), digital evidence analysis, latent print analysis, and firearms/toolmarks analysis on evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. Documents evidence and prepares detailed reports of findings detailing analytical methods and techniques used to support conclusions for submission to legal authorities and courts of law. Testifies in court as an expert witness on the analysis of evidence and conclusions reached. Researches scientific literature and exchanges information with peers to stay current with latest scientific advances in the analysis of criminal evidence. Participates in the laboratory's proficiency testing program. Provides training, technical support, and consultation to the law enforcement officers/agencies, attorneys, and other public officials and citizens of the state. Conducts crime scene investigations, as requested by law enforcement agencies. Performs other duties as assigned.
Dimensions
None
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge of the principles and practices of forensic analysis, and of forensic analytical methods and techniques. Knowledge of laws, regulations, and agency policies governing forensic activities. Knowledge of laboratory equipment used to perform forensic analysis. Ability to plan and organize forensic analysis. Ability to write descriptive results of analysis and appear as an expert witness in court. Ability to plan, organize, and oversee the work of subordinates. Ability to conduct research, establish new analytical procedures, and prepare and present training on the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence.
Minimum Qualifications
The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in a natural science; plus three years of experience in a forensic laboratory. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Licenses
None
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.