Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations

State of Connecticut • Meriden, CT

14h • Onsite

About The Position

The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is recruiting for a Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations to join their team in Meriden. This general-funded position, located within the Administrative Section of the laboratory, reports to the Division Director. The Director of Forensic Laboratory Operations will oversee the laboratory's technical operations to enhance cross-sectional analyses in the continually expanding scope and complexity of the forensic laboratory. This role is responsible for the continuity of operations across all sections of the laboratory, ensuring optimal efficiency of analysis. The technically responsible individual is essential to oversee SOPs and equipment validation for the laboratory. This position is full-time, onsite, 40 hours per week, scheduled Monday through Friday. We are seeking individuals with a minimum of a master's degree in forensic science or a closely related field and nine (9) years of professional experience in forensic analysis of evidentiary material, of which three (3) years of experience is in the supervision of the activities of a forensic laboratory section consisting of several specialized units engaged in selecting and conducting highly complex tests to analyze evidence.

Requirements

• Minimum of a master's degree in forensic science or a closely related field.
• Nine (9) years of professional experience in forensic analysis of evidentiary material.
• Three (3) years of experience in the supervision of the activities of a forensic laboratory section consisting of several specialized units engaged in selecting and conducting highly complex tests to analyze evidence.
• Considerable knowledge of and ability to apply management principles and practices.
• Considerable knowledge of relevant state and federal laws, statutes and regulations.
• Considerable knowledge of principles of serology, immunology, analytical chemistry and related disciplines such as microscopy, spectrophotometry, spectrography and appropriate mathematical techniques.
• Considerable knowledge of physiological fluids and their detection, analysis and grouping for purposes of individualization.
• Considerable knowledge of examination and analytical procedures for evidentiary materials.
• Knowledge of current forensic science literature.
• Considerable interpersonal skills.
• Considerable oral and written communication skills.
• Skill in operation of a variety of analytical instrumentation and related photographic techniques.

Nice To Haves

• Experience managing forensic grants and procurement procedures.
• Experience managing the process of forensic equipment validation and implementation.
• Experience working with lawyers, law enforcement, and members of the judicial system as it relates to testimony and legislative change.
• Experience supervising personnel performance, including conducting performance appraisals, training, performance improvement plans, documented counseling, Performance Assessment & Recognition System (PARS) reviews, and interviewing.
• Experience testifying in criminal court proceedings.
• Experience using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Responsibilities

• Oversee the laboratory technical operations to enhance the cross-sectional analyses in the continually expanding scope and complexity of the forensic laboratory.
• Responsible for the continuity of operations across the sections of the laboratory, ensuring optimal efficiency of analysis.
• Oversee SOP's and equipment validation for the laboratory.
• Directs staff and operations of the State Forensic Science Laboratory.
• Coordinates, plans and manages laboratory activities.
• Formulates program goals and objectives.
• Develops or assists in development of related policy.
• Interprets and administers pertinent laws.
• Evaluates staff.
• Prepares or assists in preparation of laboratory budget.
• Maintains contacts with individuals within and outside of laboratory who might impact on program activities.
• Examines, analyzes and identifies evidence in complex cases.
• Conducts crime scene searches and participates in major crime scene investigations.
• Trains laboratory staff, police and fire personnel in techniques utilized for gathering and analyzing evidence.
• Prepares highly technical reports.
• Performs advanced scientific research.
• Conducts investigatory conferences with staff.
• Meets with attorneys at trial conferences before court appearances to discuss evidence.
• Testifies in court as an expert witness.
• Leads the recruitment and hiring of staff, including outreach, interview and selection.
• Performs related duties as required.

Benefits

• State Employees Two (2) most recent performance evaluations
• Completed CT-HR-13
• Detailed background investigation, including a fingerprint supported state and federal criminal history record check along with reference checks.
• State Code of Ethics for Public Officials and State employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director