Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) – Chemistry and Crime Scene Response

State of Oregon • Springfield, MO

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Springfield, Oregon is hiring for one (1) Full-Time, Permanent Forensic Scientist position. The forensic scientist in this position will apply objective, scientific, and critical thinking skills to independently plan and problem solve challenges related to casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene Response disciplines which meet the quality standards of the Division. This role involves responding to crime scenes, performing accurate and timely analysis of evidence, preparing and maintaining accurate records, managing assigned caseload, and providing credible sworn testimony in legal proceedings. The position also requires preparing necessary reagents, standards, and controls, and may involve receiving and providing training. Independent casework in Chemistry and Crime Scene Response is a key function, along with completing annual proficiency tests and assuming added responsibilities as authorized.

Requirements

• Five years 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.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• As a condition of employment and / or to routinely work in any of the Forensic Services Division’s laboratories in any capacity, all individuals are required to provide appropriate samples for inclusion into the Confidential Staff DNA Identification Index.
• Must pass a urine analysis drug screen.
• Must pass all applicable background, credit, and criminal history checks.
• Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.
• Prior to being hired as a Forensic Scientist with the Oregon State Police, you will be required to participate in a full background investigation process which will include a Criminal History Check and a Credit History Check.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated ability to self-direct work, perform as part of a team, and perform well under intense mental and physical conditions.
• Demonstrated interpersonal and teamwork skills showing excellent collaboration with the public, external customers and peers.
• Demonstrated ability to objectively and critically analyze information, sometimes in time-sensitive situations, then make a reasoned judgment.
• Demonstrated ability to follow laboratory procedures in changing, high pressure environments while successfully handling multiple priorities.
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills conveying technical information in a clear, effective, and professional manner to audiences of varying educational backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Apply objective, scientific, and critical thinking skills to independently plan and problem solve challenges related to casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene Response disciplines which meet the quality standards of the Division.
• Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in the response rotation as outlined in the Oregon State Police Officers Association contract.
• Perform accurate and timely analysis of evidence according to Division policies and procedures.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports to conform to accreditation standards, Division policies and procedures, and court proceedings.
• Manage assigned caseload while maintaining timely communications with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys’ offices, defense counsel, and Forensic Services Division employees.
• Provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.
• Prepare necessary 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 of the Oregon State Police.
• Perform independent casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene Response disciplines which meet the quality standards of the Division.
• Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.
• Assume added responsibilities as authorized.

Benefits

• Full-Time, Permanent position
• PERS (Public Employee Retirement System) qualifying salary range with potential for an additional 6.95% if PERS qualifying.
• Employee Benefits information available.

What This Job Offers

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