Forensic Scientist I - Drug Unit

Commonwealth of Massachusetts • Springfield, MA

17h • Hybrid

About The Position

The incumbent with the Drug Unit undergoes on the job training and education within the lab’s accreditation framework so they may meet the standards for becoming a fully competent Forensic Scientist. Incumbents apply basic principles, practices and techniques to the work performed. Through a formal training program, incumbents complete comprehensive training in current methods and techniques used to conduct chemical and biological laboratory or on-site tests, develop proficiency in applying established protocols and procedures, engage in practical application of learned methods and procedures for performing on-site scene processing, provide testimony as an expert and/or material witness in court and/or at formal judicial hearings, follow formal instruction to provide technical advice and/or assistance, reinforce practices for maintaining the chain of custody for all evidence handled, calibrate laboratory equipment, adhere to quality assurance measures and accreditation standards, undergo periodic reviews to affirm that training benchmarks are being met and to satisfactorily complete all proficiency and competency tests required to successfully complete the training program, and perform related duties as required. Please note: While this position is full time at our Springfield Laboratory, all training will take place at our Sudbury Laboratory location. The person hired into this position will be required to travel to Sudbury until training is complete.

Requirements

• Knowledge of general laboratory techniques and methods, including sample collection and preservation, prevention of cross-contamination, proper methods used in the disposal of contaminated materials and laboratory safety.
• Knowledge of the calibration and adjustment techniques applied to equipment used in a laboratory.
• Knowledge of the properties and characteristics of various chemicals used in a laboratory.
• Knowledge of the practices, techniques and tests conducted in a chemical laboratory.
• Knowledge of sanitation and sterilization of equipment and devices and the methods, techniques and procedures followed in a chemical laboratory.
• Knowledge of the terminology and standard abbreviations and the types and uses of equipment used in a forensic laboratory.
• Ability to work independently and/or in a group setting and follow detailed instructions.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and take detailed notes.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to analyze and determine the applicability of chemical test data, to draw conclusions and make appropriate recommendations.
• Ability to work under strict time constraints and deal with severe emotional and/or physical stress.
• Ability to read and interpret such documents as test results, technical manuals, forensic journals and government publications.
• Ability to deal tactfully with others.
• Ability to assemble items of information according to established procedures.
• Ability to use a computer to conduct research, maintain databases and produce written documents.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities.
• Bachelors degree in the natural sciences, including Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Forensic Science, Pharmacology or Physics
• Must successfully complete on-the-job training to attain full competence as a forensic analyst in a designated forensic science specialization within one year of the date of hire.

Nice To Haves

• First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Responsibilities

• Complete comprehensive training in current methods and techniques used to conduct chemical and biological laboratory or on-site tests including, but not limited to, analyzing biological specimens and organic and inorganic substances; preparing solutions to be used in testing; and operating laboratory equipment.
• Develop proficiency in applying established protocols and procedures to determine the presence of alcohol, drugs, poisons, heavy metals, biological fluids (i.e. blood, semen, saliva, urine, and feces) as well as chemical and trace materials such as gunshot residues, hairs, fibers, paint and glass by examining clothes, weapons, sexual assault kits, and analyzing explosives/ignitable liquids to prepare reports on laboratory tests and to inform law enforcement and other authorized personnel of results.
• Engage in practical application of learned methods and procedures for performing on-site scene processing to properly document, collect and transport evidence to the laboratory for further analysis and to analyze chemical and biological samples for the purpose of yielding probative results.
• Provide testimony as an expert and/or material witness in court and/or at formal judicial hearings in order to defend the findings of a test examination or analysis, provide opinions on test results/examinations, demonstrate scientific procedures, and to explain test procedures and other job-related functions.
• Follow formal instruction to provide technical advice and/or assistance by telephone, at on-site scenes or in laboratory settings to police and/or fire or legal personnel on immediate measures to be taken in obtaining and handling physical evidence.
• Confer with investigators regarding facts and suspicions pertaining to cases to determine the types of tests to be performed.
• Reinforce practices for maintaining the chain of custody for all evidence handled by adhering to laboratory protocols for requesting, receiving, packaging, returning and documenting contact with case-related items and materials.
• Calibrate laboratory equipment by following documented procedures and laboratory protocols for ensuring that equipment is functioning within the operating parameters set for achieving valid test results and analytical outcomes.
• Adhere to quality assurance measures and accreditation standards as mandated by all applicable rules, policies, protocols and procedures.
• Undergo periodic reviews to affirm that training benchmarks are being met and to satisfactorily complete all proficiency and competency tests required to successfully complete the training program.
• Perform related duties as required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits
• outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package
• work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future

What This Job Offers

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