Forensic Science Examiner 1 (40 Hour)

State of Connecticut • Meriden, CT

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The State of Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Division of Scientific Services, is recruiting a Forensic Science Examiner 1 for its Forensic Biology/DNA Section in Meriden, Connecticut. The position focuses on DNA analysis and involves conducting full-process examinations alongside laboratory professionals and forensic science examiners, with collaboration with law enforcement partners as needed. It is full-time, onsite, 40 hours per week, scheduled Monday through Friday.

The role independently performs a full range of tasks involving the receipt, examination, and complex analysis of physical evidence from criminal actions. In the DNA Section, incumbents analyze forensic biology evidence, including nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. Duties may include examining, documenting, and photographing evidence; conducting forensic analyses; preparing reports and explaining results; preserving evidence; and testifying as an expert witness. Incumbents may also assist with crime-scene reconstruction, evidence collection, research, and training laboratory or law enforcement personnel.

The Division of Scientific Services serves as Connecticut’s forensic laboratory, providing support to local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Candidates must meet the stated experience and training qualifications, which allow specified education to substitute for some or all of the general experience requirement. Incumbents may be required to work flexible hours or travel, and may be exposed to communicable diseases and hazardous substances.

Requirements

• Six years of experience in forensic analysis of evidentiary material, subject to the listed education and training substitutions.
• Knowledge of modern methods used in crime-scene processing and evidence identification.
• Knowledge of techniques and procedures for analyzing evidentiary materials and of physical laboratory instrumentation, documents, firearms, fingerprints, and reconstruction techniques.
• Oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to conduct laboratory analysis, utilize computer software, and act as an expert witness in court.
• A minimum of a bachelor's degree or advanced degree in Forensic Science, chemistry, biochemistry, toxicology, or a closely related field is sought in the position highlights.
• Incumbents may be required to work flexible hours and travel.

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting forensic DNA techniques, including extraction, quantitation, amplification, and capillary electrophoresis on forensic evidence.
• Experience with forensic DNA analysis and mixture interpretation.
• Experience with probabilistic genotyping.
• Experience with automated robotics for sample handling in forensic DNA testing.
• Experience with JusticeTrax, Sample Tracking and Control System (STACS) Casework, or a similar forensic-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Responsibilities

• Receive, examine, describe, and photograph submitted evidence.
• Remove trace materials from evidence for analysis.
• Conduct complex forensic analysis of evidence using applicable methodologies and laboratory instrumentation.
• Assist in crime-scene reconstruction and conduct on-scene collection and preservation of evidence.
• Conduct forensic identification work as applicable to the assignment.
• Maintain instrumentation and equipment and safeguard physical evidence.
• Participate in research programs.
• Handle and preserve materials and samples before and after analysis.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and provide explanations and interpretations of results.
• Testify in court as an expert witness.
• May assist in training laboratory staff and law enforcement personnel.
• Perform related duties as required.

Benefits

• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• A healthy work/life balance.
• The State of Connecticut is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer; qualifying student loans may be eligible for forgiveness after 10 years of service.

What This Job Offers

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