Forensic Scientist I

Department:  FSC 

Pay:  $50,610.04 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 criminal investigations. 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

• Documents, analyzes, and preserves 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 law enforcement and/or attorneys pertaining to test results.
• Testify as an expert witness in a court of law.

Quality Assurance

• Follows quality control procedures and ensures all work performed is in accordance with current standard operating procedure and accreditation standards.
• Participates 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.

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 members of the criminal justice community 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.

It is the policy of Sedgwick County not to discriminate in its programs or services provided to the general public, including employment and all other activities, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other similarly protected status. Sedgwick County is committed to making the application, interview, and pre-employment testing process accessible to persons with disabilities. If you wish to volunteer information regarding any special assistance you may need, please notify Human Resources by phone at (316) 660-7050, TDD (Kansas Relay at 711 or 800-766-3777). Do not use this phone number for employment questions. This number is provided only for those requiring ADA assistance. You will be contacted should the department feel that you are a qualified candidate.