Forensic Scientist III - DNA - FORENSIC SCIENCE CENTER

Department:  FSC 

Job ID: 13069

Pay:  $66,892.00 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 complex laboratory analysis of biological evidence related to criminal investigations. Forensic examinations conducted include screening crime scene evidence and the identification of biological fluids; genetic analysis involves the use of advanced laboratory techniques, materials, and instrumentation involved in the characterization of DNA from body fluids and tissues. Interprets complex data, formulates conclusions, and prepares results of findings for use by the criminal justice system. Provides expert witness testimony in court and advises members of the criminal justice system in forensic matters. Adheres to quality control procedures, performs quality assurance verifications, assists with the maintenance and calibration of specialized laboratory instrumentation, and participates in research and validation of new technologies.

DNA Casework:  

• Document, collect, and preserve physical evidence from forensic investigations of violent crimes.
• Examine, test, and analyze evidence/samples according to established laboratory protocols.
• Exhibit general business computer skills with competency in software related to analytical instruments.
• Interpret complex data and prepare/review reports that accurately reflect findings and conclusions.
• Present laboratory findings as expert witness in court (as required).  
• Consult with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors pertaining to the interpretation of findings and conclusions.  
• Participate in proficiency test program.
• Provide training for professional staff, law enforcement, and public interest groups.  
• Attend professional meetings, seminars, conferences, and continuing education to maintain knowledgeable proficiency of techniques and developments in forensic science.
• Perform technical and administrative reviews of case files.
• Participate in the preparation and review of discovery materials.
• 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, state and federal regulations, accreditation standards, and the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standard for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.  
• Prepare reagents and verify/document reagent performance.
• Assist with the maintenance and calibration verification of complex laboratory equipment.

Training:  

• Provide technical training to staff, new scientists, members of the criminal justice community, and general interest groups.  
• Seek and obtain relevant technical training opportunities (professional meetings, current literature, and/or continuing education) to maintain awareness of developments in forensic science. 
• Discuss and present current topics in forensic DNA analysis and assist with research and validation of new technologies.

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or a related field. Meet the criteria set forth by the FBI QAS (current version) for undergraduate and/or graduate coursework, covering the areas of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics, and/or population genetics. Four years of experience working in a forensic DNA casework laboratory. A master’s degree or doctorate in an appropriate field may be substituted for one or two years of experience (respectively).

Preferred Qualifications: Five years of experience working in a forensic DNA casework laboratory. Master’s degree or doctorate in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or a related field. Certification in molecular biology from an approved certification body such as FEPAC or ABC.

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