FORENSIC SCIENTIST II- Chemistry/Drug

State of Illinois•Chicago, IL

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Illinois State Police Division of Forensic Services is seeking a detail-oriented, service-focused Forensic Scientist II for the Drug Chemistry Section. Under general supervision, the employee independently performs routine and complex forensic examinations of controlled substances, cannabis, intoxicating compounds, and related evidence. The position also conducts technical reviews of peer case files and reports, assists supervisory staff with statistical summaries of casework and related activities, and reviews current forensic literature and developments to maintain and advance professional expertise. Other duties reasonably within the scope of the position may be assigned. The position is based at either 1941 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, Illinois, or 515 Woodruff Rd., Joliet, Illinois. The stated work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Hybrid schedule availability is anticipated at four to five days per week in the office, depending on operational needs. The role requires travel as needed and successful completion of a background investigation, polygraph examination, competency tests, and initial and ongoing random alcohol and drug screens. Employees must adhere to Illinois State Police ethical standards, policies, and procedures and maintain credibility in courtroom testimony.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in natural science or forensic science.
At least 20 semester hours of coursework in chemistry, with a total of 60 semester hours of coursework in natural science.
Three years of professional forensic science work.
Successfully complete a background investigation and polygraph examination.
Successfully complete required competency tests to be authorized to perform forensic scientist duties.
Adhere to Illinois State Police ethical standards, policies, and procedures.
Successfully complete initial and ongoing random alcohol and drug screens.
Maintain credibility in providing courtroom testimony.
Ability to travel as needed.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of professional work experience performing specialized and sensitive physical evidence examinations of forensic Drug Chemistry cases accurately and progressively.
At least three years of work experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials.
At least three years of work experience communicating thoughts, interpretations, and conclusions of scientific examinations clearly, concisely, and logically, orally and in writing.
At least three years of work 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 work experience performing preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment, adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment, and conducting quality control activities.
At least one year of work experience performing 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 and current developments to continue professional development as a forensic scientist.
Perform other duties as required or assigned that are reasonably within the scope of the position.