Forensic Scientist III- Biology/DNA-Rockford

State of Illinois • Rockford, IL

23h • Onsite

About The Position

The Illinois State Police (ISP) is seeking to fill the role of Forensic Scientist III within the Division of Forensic Services. The Forensic Scientist will perform routine and advanced forensic biology and DNA examinations within the Forensic Biology/DNA Section. The role supports daily operational needs, produces clear written case reports, and provides training and outreach to law enforcement agencies. This position also offers technical guidance to other forensic scientists, conducts research and method development, and remains current with advancements in forensic science to ensure the highest standards of analytical practice. ISP encourages all those who qualify to apply!

The Illinois State Police offers a robust benefit package including:

Health, life, vision, and dental insurance.
12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave.
Pension Plan
Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs.
Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually.
Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service.
Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.
Thirteen-Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually.

Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Requirements

• Requires a bachelor's degree in natural science or forensic science including successful completion of coursework of nine (9) semester hours in the three DNA class requirements of genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology with a total of sixty semester hours of natural science.
• Requires five (5) years of professional forensic science work experience.
• Successful completion of initial and on-going, random, alcohol and drug screens.
• Successful completion of a background investigation.
• Successful completion of a polygraph examination.
• Ability to maintain credibility in providing courtroom testimony.
• Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's ethical standards.
• Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's policies and procedures.
• Ability to travel on an as-needed basis
• Ability to maintain proficiency in forensic science casework on an as-needed basis.
• No felony or misdemeanor convictions.
• Ability to work outside of normal working hours.

Nice To Haves

• Possess a Masters or PhD degree with coursework in one of the biological, physical, natural, or forensic sciences or related disciplines.
• At least five (5) years of professional experience in performing specialized and sensitive physical evidence examination of Forensic Biology/DNA cases in an accurate and progressive manner.
• Possess coursework and/or training in statistics and/or population genetics as it applies to forensic DNA analysis.
• At least five (5) years of experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials.
• At least five (5) years of experience in communicating thoughts, interpretations of scientific examinations, and conclusions in a clear, concise, and logical manner both orally and in writing.
• At least five (5) years of experience in testifying in court as both an expert and rebuttal witness.
• At least five (5) years of knowledge in State, Federal, and local criminal laws and regulations as they relate to the forensic examination of physical evidence.
• At least five (5) years of experience in performing preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment; adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment; and conducting quality control activities.
• At least two (2) years of experience in performing literature search and other scientific research relative to forensic science.
• At least two (2) years of experience in coordinating the activities of a small group or staff.

Responsibilities

• Conducts both routine and advanced/complex forensic biology and Deoxyribonucleic Acid(DNA) analyses/examinations of evidence in the Forensic Biology/DNA Section.
• Assists with the day-to-day operational needs of the Forensic Biology/DNA Section.
• Provides written case reports describing analytical findings.Provides training and public relations programs for law enforcement agencies.
• Provides in depth guidance to other forensic scientist staff.
• Conducts methods research and development.Continues to develop as a forensic scientist by keeping abreast of all current information in the field.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Benefits

• Health, life, vision, and dental insurance.
• 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave.
• Pension Plan
• Deferred Compensation, and other pre-tax benefit programs.
• Employees earn twelve (12) paid sick days annually.
• Ten to twenty-five (10-25) paid vacation days based on years of service.
• Employees earn three (3) paid personal days pro-rated based on start date.
• Thirteen-Fourteen (13-14) paid state holidays annually.

What This Job Offers

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