DNA Forensic Analyst

State of Maine•Augusta, GA

17h•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 scientifically valid forensic DNA and serological tests, evaluates data, prepares written expert opinions on DNA profile results and conclusions, and testifies as an expert witness in court. Work is performed under limited supervision and involves collaboration with federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement professionals, legal professionals, vendors, other crime laboratories, communications media, and community resource groups. The position reports to the Forensic Biology Supervisor, who reports to the Crime Laboratory Director/Lieutenant. The role also includes explaining analytical findings and forensic DNA services to partner agencies and communities; training law enforcement personnel in biological-evidence handling and forensic DNA capabilities; participating in proficiency testing, quality assurance, and laboratory safety programs; maintaining case records and inventory; and producing technical reports and written opinions. The position is with the Maine Department of Public Safety in Augusta, Maine. The listed annual salary is $66,924.00–$94,036.80, including a 10% stipend. The posting states that the position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biological, chemical, or forensic science, including training or coursework in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
Three years of experience in forensic analysis, including 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 and 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 and evaluate and interpret forensic DNA test results.
Ability to present and defend findings in court.
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 DNA profile inclusions and exclusions among evidence, known references, and database samples.
Explain and interpret forensic DNA results, conclusions, their scientific basis, and statistical significance in criminal court proceedings, and provide expert testimony.
Serve as a liaison to law enforcement agencies, the medical and scientific communities, and communications media to explain analytical results and provide information about forensic DNA services.
Train law enforcement personnel on proper handling of biological evidence and the capabilities of forensic DNA analysis.
Participate in DNA proficiency testing, quality assurance, and laboratory safety programs to support accreditation and the integrity of analytical tests and results.
Write and maintain daily logs, reports, and case records.
Order supplies, reagents, and chemicals and maintain sufficient stock levels.
Prepare technical reports and written opinions documenting analytical results and conclusions for expert opinions and courtroom testimony.

Benefits

13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and more than three weeks of vacation leave annually; vacation accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
State-paid employee-only health insurance premiums covering 85%–100%, depending on salary; a 5% employee-only premium credit is available for participation in the applicable program.
State-paid employee-only dental insurance premiums.
Maine Public Employees Retirement System contributions equal to 14.06% of pay.
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.
42 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.
Additional employee wellness benefits.