Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania • Westmoreland County, PA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Pennsylvania State Police is hiring a Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee to develop the knowledge and skills needed to perform forensic DNA analysis through a structured training program. The role provides hands-on experience with laboratory procedures, scientific equipment, evidence handling, quality standards, and courtroom preparation in an accredited forensic laboratory. The trainee works with experienced professionals and attends training and educational activities while learning techniques used to analyze, identify, and interpret human DNA samples.

This is a full-time position scheduled for 37.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a 30-minute lunch. Telework is not available. Applicants must meet Pennsylvania residency requirements, be able to perform essential job functions, pass a background investigation, and meet CJIS compliance requirements. Before placement, the selected candidate must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science.
• The degree must include or be supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry and three credits each in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics.
• Applicants may qualify once they are within three months of graduating with the qualifying degree and credits.
• Meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement.
• Be able to perform the essential job functions.
• Submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer before placement.
• Pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Learn chemical and biological techniques used to analyze, identify, and interpret human DNA samples.
• Operate specialized equipment and use forensic DNA systems; assist with equipment maintenance and performance checks.
• Follow procedures for collecting, preserving, documenting, and tracking evidence and maintaining sample chain of custody.
• Prepare detailed laboratory records and maintain documentation that meets legal and laboratory requirements.
• Attend training sessions, staff meetings, conferences, and educational activities, and review scientific publications and reference materials.
• Follow laboratory policies, safety procedures, accreditation requirements, and forensic DNA quality standards governing analytical work.

What This Job Offers

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