FORENSIC SCIENTIST II - Biology/DNA
About The Position
The Illinois State Police Division of Forensic Services is hiring a detail-oriented, service-focused Forensic Scientist II in its Forensic Biology/DNA Section. The position conducts forensic biology and DNA analyses of evidence involving blood and other physiological fluids. It also supports reliable laboratory operations through equipment calibration, safety checks, and routine maintenance; assists with the section’s daily operational needs; and contributes to research and method development. Work locations are listed in Chicago, Joliet, Rockford, and Decatur, Illinois. The position is union-represented, and the relevant collective bargaining agreement applies.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in natural science or forensic science, including successful completion of nine semester hours in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology, and a total of 60 semester hours of natural science.
- Three years of professional forensic science work experience.
- Successfully complete a background investigation.
- Successfully complete a polygraph examination.
- Successfully complete all 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 when providing courtroom testimony.
- Ability to travel on an as-needed basis.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s or PhD degree with coursework in biological, physical, natural, or forensic sciences or related disciplines.
- At least three years of experience applying forensic biology/DNA laboratory principles and techniques accurately and progressively for efficient disposition of forensic casework.
- Coursework and/or training in statistics and/or population genetics as applied to forensic DNA analysis.
- At least three years of experience with laboratory techniques used for scientific examination of physical evidence.
- At least three years of experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials.
- At least three years of experience communicating scientific interpretations and conclusions clearly, concisely, and logically, orally and in writing.
- At least three years of experience with state, federal, and local criminal laws and regulations related to forensic examination of physical evidence.
- At least three years of experience performing preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment, adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment, and conducting quality control activities.
- At least three years of experience constructing court exhibits or demonstration charts and testifying in court as an expert witness with proper courtroom demeanor.
Responsibilities
- Conduct forensic biology and DNA analyses and examinations of evidence related to blood and other physiological fluids.
- Perform calibration, safety checks, and routine maintenance on section equipment.
- Assist with day-to-day operational needs of the Forensic Biology/DNA Section.
- Assist in methods research and development.
- Perform other duties as assigned or required.
- Travel on an as-needed basis.
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.
- 13–14 paid state holidays annually.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
