Forensic Scientist I - FORENSIC SCIENCE

Department:  FSC 

Pay:  $54,475.20 annually  

Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM  

Sedgwick County offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees that includes health coverages, paid leave, regular compensation reviews, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.  For more detailed information, please visit our benefits page at SCBenefits.

Performs various analytical tests within the Drug Identification Section related to illicit drugs and drug paraphernalia. Examinations conducted include testing of unknown plant material, pills, powders, liquids, etc., for the presence or absence of controlled substances, and the use of laboratory techniques and instrumentation involved for analysis. Interprets complex data, formulates conclusions, and prepares results of findings to provide an expert opinion in criminal justice proceedings. Adheres to quality control procedures, performs quality assurance verifications, assists with the maintenance and calibrations of laboratory instrumentation, and participates in research and validations as necessary.

DID Casework:

• Document, analyze, and preserve physical evidence according to laboratory procedures, to ensure chain of custody is maintained.
• Examine, sample, and analyze evidence/samples according to established laboratory protocols.
• Prepare detailed notes.
• Interpret data and prepare written laboratory reports that accurately reflect findings and conclusions.
• Perform technical and administrative reviews of case files.
• Confer with stakeholders pertaining to test results.
• Participate in the preparation and review of discovery materials.
• Maintain qualifications necessary to testify as an expert witness in a court of law.

Quality Assurance:

• Follow quality control procedures and ensures all work performed is in accordance with current standard operating procedure and accreditation standards.
• Participate in proficiency test program.
• Prepare reagents, standards, and/or controls, and verifies/documents acceptable performance correctly.
• Maintain laboratory equipment per accepted procedures.
• Perform validations/crossover studies as required.
• Maintain inventory of supplies.

Training:

• Continue to increase level of expertise by attending available training opportunities (professional meetings, current literature, and/or continuing education).
• Provide technical training to staff and new scientists.
• Provide training on the functions of the laboratory to other agencies.
• Provide training to stakeholders and general interest groups.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or a related field.

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