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

State of Oregon•Bend, OR

2d•$79,200 - $126,348•Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Bend, Oregon, is hiring one full-time, permanent Forensic Scientist for the Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigation disciplines. This is an in-office position with no remote or hybrid work option. The role performs technical and scientific functions for the criminal justice system in accordance with Oregon State Police and Forensic Services Division policies, accreditation procedures, and state law. The scientist independently plans and conducts casework, analyzes evidence, responds to crime scenes, and participates in the field response rotation. The position also involves maintaining case records and reports, managing a caseload and communications with justice-system partners, preparing laboratory reagents and controls, supporting and training analysts, completing annual proficiency testing for each assigned discipline, and providing credible sworn testimony. The position 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 and a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, such as Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Forensic Science, Pharmacology, Bacteriology, or a closely related field.
For the Forensic Scientist Entry underfill level: a bachelor’s degree in a natural science, such as Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Forensic Science, Pharmacology, Bacteriology, or a closely related field.
A degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or a similar field does not meet the stated degree qualification.
Official transcripts must demonstrate successful completion of laboratory-based coursework in a natural science discipline, such as Chemistry, Biology, Genetics, Organic Chemistry, or Physics.
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 a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.
Submit a resume demonstrating experience related to the applicable minimum qualifications.
Submit a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing each preferred skill with specific examples from personally experienced situations, actions, and results.
Provide official transcripts if selected to advance in the selection process or, for candidates advancing to background verification, unless transcripts have 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.
High emotional intelligence in a team environment.

Responsibilities

Independently plan and problem-solve casework in Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigations using objective scientific and critical-thinking skills, meeting Division quality standards.
Respond to crime scenes and participate in the field response rotation as outlined in the Oregon State Police Officers Association 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 conform to accreditation standards, Division policies and procedures, and court proceedings.
Manage assigned caseload and communicate in a timely manner 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 act as a resource to support 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 that meets Division quality standards.
Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.
Assume additional responsibilities as authorized.