Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) – Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigation Disciplines

State of Oregon•Bend, OR

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Bend, Oregon, is hiring one full-time, permanent Forensic Scientist. This is an in-office position with no remote or hybrid work option. The position performs technical and scientific functions for the criminal justice system under Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division policies, accreditation procedures, and state law, in the Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigation disciplines. The scientist independently plans and solves casework challenges, responds to crime scenes and participates in the response rotation, analyzes evidence, maintains records and reports, and manages an assigned caseload. The role includes communicating with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys’ offices, defense counsel, and Division employees; providing credible sworn testimony; preparing reagents, standards, and controls; and supporting and receiving training. The scientist performs independent casework to Division quality standards, completes at least one proficiency test annually for each forensic discipline performed, and may assume additional authorized responsibilities. The standard Forensic Scientist 1 qualification requires five years of experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited forensic laboratory and a bachelor’s degree in a natural science or closely related field. An entry-level underfill option is available for applicants with the required bachelor’s degree but not yet at the full-performance level. Applicants must submit a resume addressing the applicable minimum qualifications and a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing each preferred skill with specific examples. The role is covered by an OSPOA Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Requirements

For the Forensic Scientist 1 level: five years of experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited forensic laboratory.
A bachelor’s degree in a natural science—such as Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Forensic Science, Pharmacology, or Bacteriology—or a closely related field. Degrees in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or similar fields do not qualify.
For the entry underfill option: the qualifying natural science bachelor’s degree is required; the five-year forensic laboratory experience requirement is not listed for this level.
Official transcripts must demonstrate successful completion of laboratory-based coursework in a natural science discipline.
Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Provide appropriate samples for inclusion in the Confidential Staff DNA Identification Index as a condition of employment and/or routinely working in a Forensic Services Division laboratory.
Pass a urine analysis drug screen and applicable background, credit, and criminal history checks.
Be able to provide credible sworn testimony in criminal or civil proceedings arising from the performance of duties.
Submit a resume addressing the applicable minimum qualifications and a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing each preferred skill with specific examples.
If selected to advance, provide official transcripts from institutions used to award the qualifying degree; candidates advancing to background verification must submit an official transcript unless one has already been provided.

Nice To Haves

Ability to learn and grow from mistakes and setbacks.
Ability to analyze information objectively and make reasoned, unbiased decisions.
Ability to communicate scientific information clearly, effectively, and professionally.
Ability to think creatively, critically, and logically.
Ability to demonstrate high emotional intelligence in a team environment.

Responsibilities

Independently plan and solve casework challenges in Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigations using objective scientific and critical-thinking skills.
Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in the response rotation under the OSPOA contract.
Perform accurate and timely evidence analysis in accordance with Division policies and procedures.
Prepare and maintain accurate records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports that meet accreditation, Division, and court requirements.
Manage an assigned caseload and maintain timely communications with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys’ offices, defense counsel, and Forensic Services Division employees.
Provide credible sworn testimony in criminal or civil proceedings arising from the performance of duties.
Prepare reagents, standards, and controls to ensure quality results and serve as a resource supporting Forensic Services Division analysts.
Receive and provide training related to assigned duties and perform other duties as needed or requested by the Laboratory Director or other supervisors.
Perform independent casework in Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigations to Division quality standards.
Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.
Assume added responsibilities as authorized.