Forensic Technician I - DNA Database

State of South Carolina•Richland County, SC

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Forensic Technician I serves in the DNA Database Department under appropriate supervision. The position processes database samples, completes expungement requests, provides administrative support to forensic scientists, and helps maintain the department’s operations. The employee works at the Forensic Services Laboratory in Columbia, South Carolina, during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There is no residency requirement. The role requires evaluating DNA database samples and expungement requests, maintaining associated records, and following departmental protocols. It also includes quality, safety, inventory, procurement, training, and administrative tasks, as well as communication with agency personnel and members of the law enforcement and legal community. SLED describes itself as a statewide law enforcement agency providing investigative, intelligence, and forensic services. It emphasizes integrity, professionalism, public service, teamwork, respect, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a science or criminal justice related field, or an associate’s degree plus five years of forensics or legal experience; alternatively, obtain the qualifying education within 90 days of the posting date.
Basic working knowledge of computers and commonly used programs.
Effective communication skills.
Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and able to use sound time-management and organizational practices.
Ability to maintain NCIC certification.
Ability to maintain focus and perform repetitive motions for an extended period.
Ability to lift items weighing up to approximately 20 pounds, as required.
Ability to report to the Forensic Services Laboratory in Columbia, South Carolina, during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of legal terminology and judicial processes.
Laboratory experience.

Responsibilities

Evaluate database samples for entry in the offender information management system.
Obtain incomplete biometric information by contacting the submitting agency or conducting an NCIC check.
Request recollection of database samples when needed and maintain records of those requests.
Document and destroy samples submitted with non-qualifying offenses.
Ensure duplicate database samples are properly routed and documented.
Review expungement requests from Solicitors' Offices for completeness and accuracy.
Verify DNA expungement eligibility, process requests according to protocol, and review requests processed by other qualified individuals.
Perform quality control, quality assurance, safety, housekeeping, and other duties or projects that support unit operations.
Submit required administrative paperwork in a timely manner.
Conduct regular inventory and assist with procurement and receipt of laboratory equipment, reagents, and supplies.
Participate in required training.
Provide training as needed to new employees, interns, or external customers.
Maintain professional communication and interact effectively with supervisors, departmental and agency personnel, and members of the law enforcement and legal community.