DNA Forensic Analyst

State of Maine•Augusta, GA

2d•$66,924 - $94,037•Onsite

About The Position

This professional services position examines, tests, and analyzes biological evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies and medical examiners for criminal investigations, identification of remains, and DNA databasing. The analyst uses valid forensic DNA and serological tests, evaluates data, prepares written expert opinions about DNA profile results and conclusions, and testifies as an expert witness in court. Work is performed under limited supervision. The position works with federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement professionals, legal professionals, vendors, other crime laboratories, communications media, and community resource groups. It reports to the Forensic Biology Supervisor, who reports to the Crime Laboratory Director/Lieutenant.

Requirements

A seven-year combination of education, training, and/or experience, including a bachelor's degree in biological, chemical, or forensic science with training or coursework in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology, and three years of forensic analysis experience that includes training or experience in locating, identifying, and genetically characterizing body fluids.
Knowledge of forensic DNA principles, laboratory techniques, procedures, and technology.
Knowledge of physical evidence collection and preservation techniques.
Knowledge of rules of evidence.
Knowledge of forensic serology and electrophoresis.
Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative organic chemistry principles and practices.
Knowledge of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, statistics, and/or population genetics.
Knowledge of laboratory safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
Knowledge of forensic DNA laboratory proficiency and validation studies.
Ability to perform forensic DNA-PCR analysis.
Ability to evaluate and interpret forensic DNA test results.
Ability to present and defend findings in a court of law.
Ability to communicate effectively and write clearly and effectively.
Ability to examine, analyze, identify, and compare various types of physical evidence.
Ability to prepare reagents and solutions.

Responsibilities

Examine and analyze biological evidence using scientifically valid laboratory tests and procedures to identify inclusions and exclusions of DNA profiles among evidence, known references, and database samples.
Explain and interpret forensic DNA results, conclusions, scientific bases, and statistical significance in criminal court proceedings, and provide expert testimony.
Liaise with law enforcement agencies, medical and scientific communities, and communications media to explain analytical results and provide information about forensic DNA services.
Train law enforcement personnel on proper biological evidence handling and forensic DNA analysis capabilities to help preserve evidence integrity and continuity and promote DNA evidence collection.
Participate in DNA proficiency testing, quality assurance, and laboratory safety programs to maintain national accreditation and analytical integrity.
Write and maintain daily logs, reports, and case records.
Order and maintain inventory of supplies, reagents, and chemicals needed for testing and services.
Prepare technical reports and written opinions of analytical results and conclusions.

Benefits

13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually; vacation accrual increases with service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
State contribution of 85%–100% of employee-only health insurance premiums, depending on salary; dependent coverage contributions vary.
A 5% employee-only health insurance premium credit for participation in the applicable program.
State-paid employee-only dental insurance premiums.
State contribution of 14.06% of pay to MainePERS on behalf of the employee.
Gym membership reimbursement of up to $40 per month.
Health and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness.
Employee assistance program through the Living Resources Program.
Forty-two consecutive calendar days of fully paid parental leave for employees welcoming a child; additional unpaid leave may be available under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Voluntary deferred compensation through a MaineSaves 457(b) account.