Forensic Scientist III-Chemistry/Drug-Chicago

State of Illinois•Chicago, 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. Under general supervision, the Forensic Scientist conducts routine and advanced forensic analyses of controlled substances, cannabis, intoxicating compounds, and related evidence within the Drug Chemistry Section. The position assists the supervisor by preparing casework statistics, supporting administrative functions, and performing related operational duties. Responsibilities include performing quality and safety checks, as well as routine maintenance on laboratory instruments such as infrared spectrophotometers and gas chromatograph/mass spectrometers. The Forensic Scientist also engages in ongoing professional development by reviewing current scientific literature to remain informed of advances in the field. 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 Bachelors degree in natural science or forensic science. Option B requires, in addition to the bachelor's degree in natural or forensic science requirement, a minimum of 20 semester hours of chemistry with a total of 60 semester hours of nature science.
Requires five years of professional forensic science work.
Successful completion of background investigation.
Successful completion of a polygraph examination.
Successful completion of all required competency tests to be authorized to perform the duties of a forensic scientist.
Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's ethical standards, policies, and procedures.
Successful completion of initial and on-going, random, alcohol and drug screens.
Ability to maintain credibility in providing courtroom testimony.
Ability to travel on an as-needed basis.

Nice To Haves

Prefers at least five (5) years of professional work experience in performing specialized and sensitive physical evidence examination of forensic Drug Chemistry cases in an accurate and progressive manner.
Prefers at least five (5) years of work experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials.
Prefers at least five (5) years of work experience in communicating thoughts, interpretations, and conclusions of scientific examinations in a clear, concise, and logical manner both orally and in writing.
Prefers at least five (5) years of work experience in testifying in court as both an expert and rebuttal witness.
Prefers 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.
Prefers at least five (5) years of work experience in performing preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment; adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment; and conducting quality control activities.
Prefers at least two (2) years of work experience in performing literature search and other scientific research related to forensic science.
Prefers at least two (2) years of work experience in coordinating the activities of a small group or staff.

Responsibilities

Under general supervision, conducts both routine and the most advanced/complex forensic analyses/examinations of controlled substances, cannabis, intoxicating compounds, and related evidence in the Drug Chemistry section.
Assists the supervisor by preparing statistical reports on cases worked, assists with administrative functions, and performs related duties in the section.
Performs quality and safety checks and conducts routine maintenance on the infrared spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer, and other instruments as assigned.
Continues to develop as a forensic scientist by reviewing pertinent literature to keep 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.