Forensic Scientist 3 (In-Training) Seattle Toxicology

State of Washington • King County - Seattle – Other, WA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is located in our Seattle lab. In addition to your salary, you will also receive an extra 5% King County Pay. This position has been designated as “in-training”; as such WSP will consider filling this position at the Forensic Scientist 3, Forensic Scientist 2, or Forensic Scientist 1 level. The salary range will depend upon at which level the position is filled at and the qualifications of the successful candidate. Forensic Scientist 1: In -training Approx. 12 months $ 5,011 to $ 6,735 Forensic Scientist 2: In -training Approx. 18 months $ 5,531 t o $ 7,443 Forensic Scientist 3: In -training Approx. 6 months $ 6,735 to $ 9,065 The Forensic Scientist is responsible for conducting analyses on submitted evidence using approved instrumentation and methods, interpretation of toxicology results, and providing testimony of their findings in court. The Washington State Toxicology Laboratory, established in 1963, performs drug and alcohol testing for coroners, medical examiners, law enforcement agencies, prosecuting attorneys, and the State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) in all 39 Washington counties. The Division receives approximately 19,000 cases per year of which approximately 65 percent are law enforcement DUI cases and 35 percent coroner/medical examiner cases. The Division is overseen by the Division Commander and has a staff of 50 personnel consisting of State Toxicologist, Management, Forensic Scientist Supervisors, Forensic Scientists, Quality Assurance, Property and Evidence Custodians, and Administrative staff. Forensic Scientists perform analysis of samples submitted to the laboratory and provide court testimony as experts on alcohol, drugs, and their effects. The Washington State Patrol is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to foster an environment in which everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves, communicate openly, and act with courage. The WSP is dedicated to promoting fair and equitable hiring, training, and promotional practices through innovative recruitment and retention strategies.

Requirements

• Must possess a valid, unrestricted Washington State Driver's License or able to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
• Must currently have a Bachelor’s degree or higher, in a natural science, forensic science or closely related field. (Examples of related fields include but are not limited to: pharmacology, medical technology, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, clinical chemistry, nuclear chemistry, genetics, cellular or molecular biology or toxicology).
• Chemistry coursework required. 20 semester or 30 quarter hours. Including a minimum of 5 quarter hours of quantitative chemistry laboratory or equivalent (with a passing grade).

Responsibilities

• Conducts case analyses on evidence submitted to the toxicology lab, using approved methods, under the direction from supervisors or management staff.
• Knowledge on the operation and maintenance of the laboratory instrumentation.
• Provides court testimony.
• Performs analytical testing for volatiles, drugs and other toxins on biological samples.
• Reports scientific findings supported by data using a laboratory information management system.
• Provides expert opinions and explains the effects of alcohol and drugs.
• Instrument maintenance, batch review, and proficiency testing.
• Performs testing to develop and validate methods using guidelines established by the QA department.
• Evaluates data.
• Provides training to customers.
• Assists with evidence or administrative related duties.
• Performs laboratory safety duties.
• Assists in the lab cleanliness.

Benefits

• Flexible schedules
• Telework options
• Infants at Work Program
• Continuous growth and development opportunities
• Opportunities to serve your community and make an impact through meaningful work.
• Employment opportunities that recognize military veterans and/or military spouse per Governor Executive Order 19-01.
• Qualification for the Public Loan Forgiveness Program.

What This Job Offers

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