Chemistry Analyst

State of Montana • Billings, MT

3d

About The Position

Mission: The Forensic Science Division Laboratory is a multi-disciplined service facility that supports the Department of Justice’s mission to pursue activities and programs that seek to ensure and promote the public interest, safety, and well-being. The activities and programs for which FSD is responsible include managing a statewide system of death investigations and providing scientific analyses of specimens/evidence submitted by law enforcement officials, coroners and state agencies. The mission of the Montana Forensic Science Division is to use operationally efficient and financially responsible practices as the laboratory provides accurate, objective and timely forensic analyses to the criminal justice community. The Division is composed of the following sections\: Toxicology/Breath Testing, Biology, Chemistry Firearms/Tool Marks, Latent Print/Impression Evidence, and the State Medical Examiner’s Office. Job Overview : The Chemistry Analyst performs a full range of scientific analysis of various materials and substances. Analysis areas can include controlled substances (including clandestine laboratories). Conducts quality control and quality assurance procedures. Makes significant technical contributions to the laboratory, shares new ideas, builds strong internal and external networks, and mentors and develops less experienced staff. Testifies in court as an expert witness regarding analytical results, methodology, interpretation and reliability of results within their forensic field. May supervise training programs and conduct research and planning in support of laboratory projects and goals. The successful candidate will work with collaboratively with a larger team that analyzes chemical and biological materials; will stand for extended periods of time; rely upon manual dexterity and fine motor skills; and focus attention on details. Testifying in court and managing emotions pertaining to victim deaths may be stressful. This position is open until filled.

Requirements

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biological science, or a closely related field.
• Must have successfully completed lecture and associated labs in general, organic and analytical chemistry.

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor’s degree in Chemistry is preferred.
• One or more year’s experience performing casework in an accredited lab.
• Successful completion of an accredited laboratory training program.
• Qualified to testify in court.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

Responsibilities

• Performs a full range of scientific analysis of various materials and substances.
• Analysis areas can include controlled substances (including clandestine laboratories).
• Conducts quality control and quality assurance procedures.
• Makes significant technical contributions to the laboratory, shares new ideas, builds strong internal and external networks, and mentors and develops less experienced staff.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness regarding analytical results, methodology, interpretation and reliability of results within their forensic field.
• May supervise training programs and conduct research and planning in support of laboratory projects and goals.

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays
• Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees