FORENSIC SCIENTIST

Date: Nov 28, 2024

Req ID: 43983

Location:

Little Rock, AR, US, 72205

Category: STATE CRIME LABORATORY

Anticipated Starting Salary: 45010

Position Number: 22090700
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 12/13/2024
Anticipated Starting Salary: 45010

The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state’s premier public safety agency.

This position is Safety Sensitive and is subject to pre-employment, random, and for-cause drug screenings.

If you are requesting veteran’s preference, please include your DD214.

Authorities and Responsibilities

Reviews investigator’s summary information to become familiar with the details of the crime and evaluates the items of evidence submitted (e.g., weapons, clothing, sexual assault kits, bedding, vehicles, etc.) to determine appropriate testing methods.
Conducts a series of analytical tests to identify biological fluids and locates areas that may be suitable for DNA testing. Hairs and fibers (tape lifts) may be collected for future analyses.
Note: This position also requires cross-training in the Trace Evidence Unit of the Physical Evidence Section, which is more chemistry focused. The Trace Evidence Unit analyzes primer gunshot residue from suspects, analyzes fire debris for accelerants, and performs hair screening for DNA testing suitability.
Prepares reports of findings and conclusions for submission to legal authorities and courts of law.
Testifies in court as an expert witness on the analysis of evidence and conclusions reached.
Provides consultation to law enforcement officers, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and other public officials on crime scene investigation concerning methods of collecting, transporting, and preserving evidence to ensure its integrity and maintenance of the chain of custody.
Stays abreast of the latest scientific advances in the analysis of criminal evidence by reviewing scientific literature.
Assists law enforcement agencies with on-site crime scene investigations occasionally.
Performs related responsibilities as required or assigned.

Working Relationships

The Forensic Serologist position has regular contact with other laboratory sections (especially the Forensic DNA Section), law enforcement officials, and attorneys.

Special Job Dimensions

Forensic Serologists will experience frequent exposure to hazardous, toxic, repulsive, and/or infectious materials as well as sometimes disturbing crime scene information.
Occasional in or out-of-state travel occurs.

Position Information

Class Code: B053C

Grade: GS08

FLSA Status: EXEMPT

Salary Range: $45,010.00 - $71,792.00

Summary

The Forensic Scientist is responsible for the examination of evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. After the examination has been completed, the results must be interpreted and a report prepared. Also, the analyst must be prepared to testify as an expert witness to their findings. This position is governed by state and federal laws agency/institution policy.

Functions

Designs and conducts a series of analytical tests, including chemistry (Controlled Substances, Trace Evidence and Toxicology), biology (DNA, CODIS, and Serology), digital evidence analysis, latent print analysis, and firearms/toolmarks analysis on evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. Documents evidence and prepares detailed reports of findings detailing analytical methods and techniques used to support conclusions for submission to legal authorities and courts of law. Testifies in court as an expert witness on the analysis of evidence and conclusions reached. Researches scientific literature and exchanges information with peers to stay current with latest scientific advances in the analysis of criminal evidence. Participates in the laboratory's proficiency testing program. Provides training, technical support, and consultation to the law enforcement officers/agencies, attorneys, and other public officials and citizens of the state. Conducts crime scene investigations, as requested by law enforcement agencies. Performs other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

None

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of the principles and practices of forensic analysis, and of forensic analytical methods and techniques. Knowledge of laws, regulations, and agency policies governing forensic activities. Knowledge of laboratory equipment used to perform forensic analysis. Ability to plan and organize forensic analysis. Ability to write descriptive results of analysis and appear as an expert witness in court. Ability to plan, organize, and oversee the work of subordinates. Ability to conduct research, establish new analytical procedures, and prepare and present training on the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree in a natural science; plus three years of experience in a forensic laboratory. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

None

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.