FORENSIC SCIENTIST II- Chemistry/Drug
About The Position
The Illinois State Police Division of Forensic Services is seeking a detail-oriented, service-focused Forensic Scientist II for its Drug Chemistry Section. Under general supervision, the incumbent independently conducts routine and complex forensic examinations of controlled substances, cannabis, intoxicating compounds, and related evidence. The position also includes technical review of peers’ case files and reports for accuracy and completeness, preparing statistical summaries of casework and related activities in support of supervisory staff, and reviewing current forensic literature and developments to maintain professional expertise. The work location is either 1941 W Roosevelt Road in Chicago or 515 Woodruff Road in Joliet. The position is a union position subject to the relevant collective bargaining agreement.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in natural science or forensic science, including at least 20 semester hours of chemistry coursework and a total of 60 semester hours of natural science coursework.
- Three years of professional forensic science work.
- Successful completion of a background investigation.
- Successful completion of a polygraph examination.
- Successful completion of required competency tests to be authorized to perform forensic scientist duties.
- Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police ethical standards, policies, and procedures.
- Successful completion of initial and ongoing random alcohol and drug screens.
- Ability to maintain credibility when providing courtroom testimony.
- Ability to travel as needed.
Nice To Haves
- At least three years of professional experience performing specialized and sensitive physical evidence examinations in forensic Drug Chemistry cases accurately and progressively.
- At least three years of experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials.
- At least three years of experience communicating scientific examination thoughts, interpretations, and conclusions clearly, concisely, and logically, orally and in writing.
- At least three years of experience testifying in court as both an expert and rebuttal witness.
- At least three years of knowledge of state, federal, and local criminal laws and regulations related to forensic examination of physical evidence.
- At least three years of experience performing preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment, and conducting quality control activities.
- At least one year of experience conducting literature searches and other scientific research related to forensic science.
Responsibilities
- Independently conduct routine and complex forensic analyses and examinations of controlled substances, cannabis, intoxicating compounds, and related evidence in the Drug Chemistry Section.
- Technically review peers’ case files and reports for accuracy and completeness.
- Assist the supervisor by preparing statistical reports on cases worked and related activities.
- Review pertinent literature to keep current with developments in forensic science.
- Perform other duties as required or assigned that are reasonably within the scope of the position.
Benefits
- Health, life, vision, and dental insurance.
- 12 weeks of paid maternity/paternity leave.
- Pension plan.
- Deferred compensation and other pre-tax benefit programs.
- 12 paid sick days annually.
- 10 to 25 paid vacation days based on years of service.
- Three paid personal days, prorated based on start date.
- 13 to 14 paid state holidays annually.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
