Forensic Scientist III - REGIONAL FORESNSIC SCIENCE CENTER

Department:  FSC 

Job ID: 13009

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. As CODIS Administrator, the FS-III oversees all database function, maintenance, backup, upgrades, training, configuration, and uploads related to the CODIS database.

DNA Casework:  

• Examine, test, and analyze evidence/samples according to established laboratory protocols.
• 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.   
• Follow quality control procedures and ensure all work performed is in accordance with current standard operating procedure, state and federal regulations, accreditation standards, and the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.  
• Prepare reagents and verify/document reagent performance.

CODIS Administrator:  

• Responsible for facilitating the installation of hardware and software upgrades.
• Conduct prompt and accurate uploads of data to SDIS.
• Coordinate CODIS training and activates/deactivates users.
• Communicate with the State Administrator or IT support company to resolve routine problems.
• Inform the Technical Leader, State Administrator, and Director of issues impacting database operations.
• Update specimen information and implements configuration changes.

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). Must have training on the operation and management of the CODIS system, including CODIS User Training Class provided by the FBI in accordance by NDIS procedures. Must have completed DNA auditor training.

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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