New Job Forensic Scientist Ii-Opt. C (Biology/Dna) Rockford - 1589200 In Illinois

About the Position

The Illinois State Police (ISP) Forensic Sciences Command (FSC) is seeking motivated individuals to fill a Forensic Science II position in the Forensic Biology/DNA section at the Rockford Forensic Science Laboratory. The ISP FSC is the third largest forensic laboratory system in the world with seven full service forensic laboratories throughout the state of Illinois and a Training and Applications Laboratory. This leader will be responsible for maintaining the highest level of quality for the analytical procedures being performed. The ideal candidate should be a critical thinker and detailed oriented. This position will work cooperatively with laboratory staff and various officials in the criminal justice system.

The State of Illinois continually strives for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the state. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideals and experiences is crucial to the ISP's ability to most effectively serve the public.

Job Responsibilities

40% 1. Conducts forensic biology and DNA analyses/examinations of evidence related to blood and other physiological fluids in the Forensic Biology/DNA section.

• Receives from law enforcement agencies and logs in items of evidence related to blood and other physiological fluids (including blood spatter)
• Discusses case with user agency and determines what examinations can and will be performed.
• Utilizing specialized instrumental techniques such as electrophoresis and robotics, processes and examines/compares evidence to determine possible relationships.
• Maintains case files and receipts to preserve the chain of custody and integrity of the work performed by the laboratory.
• Cleans and maintains the work area and equipment.
• Conducts necessary quality checks on reagents, preparing new ones as needed.

25% 2. Issues reports describing evidence examined and results of laboratory examinations.

• Contacts user agency and legal personnel to make arrangements for pre-trial hearings and trial dates.
• Prepares evidence for court presentation and testifies in criminal court regarding examination results.
• Certifies and returns all necessary evidence and reports to user agencies and/or court system.

10% 3. Provides assistance in improving or developing new techniques.

• Performs research to improve current techniques and/or develop new techniques.
• Performs literature search and examinations necessary to prove a known technique.

10% 4. Assists in the agency's training efforts in both in-house and user agency personnel.

• Trains user agency personnel in the proper methods of collection and preservation of physical evidence.
• Provides information about the laboratory to the general public.

10% 5. Travel as needed to attend professional meeting/seminars relative to the functions of the crime laboratory program.

• Reviews current literature for professional development.

5% 6. Performs other duties as assigned or required included but not limited to the duties enumerated above.

Minimum Requirements

1. Requires a bachelor's degree in natural science or forensic science including a total of nine (9) semester hours in the three DNA class requirements of genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology with a total of 60 semester hours of coursework in natural science.

2. Requires three (3) years of professional forensic science work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Possess a Master's or PhD degree with coursework in one of the biological, physical, natural or forensic sciences or related disciplines.

2. At least three (3) years of professional experience in applying Forensic Biology/DNA laboratory principles and techniques in an accurate and progressive manner for efficient disposition of casework.

3. Possess coursework and/or training in statistics and/or population genetics as it applies to forensic DNA analysis.

4. At least three (3) years of knowledge in laboratory techniques used for scientific examination of physical evidence.

5. At least three (3) years of experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials.

6. At least three (3) years of experience in communicating thoughts, interpretations of scientific examinations, and conclusions in a clear, concise, and logical manner both orally and in writing.

7. At least three (3) years of knowledge in State, Federal, and local criminal laws and regulations as they relate to the forensic examination of physical evidence.

8. At least three (3) years of experience in performing preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment; adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment; and conducting quality control activities.

9. At least three (3) years of experience constructing court exhibits or demonstration charts and testifying in court as an expert witness, with proper courtroom demeanor.

Employment Conditions

1. Successful completion of initial and on-going, random alcohol and drug screens.

2. Successful completion of a background investigation

3. Successful completion of a polygraph examination

4. Ability to maintain credibility in providing courtroom testimony

a. Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's ethical standards

b. Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's policies and procedures

5. Ability to travel on an as-needed basis

6. Ability to maintain proficiency in forensic science casework on an as-needed basis

7. No felony or misdemeanor convictions.

About the Agency

The Illinois State Police strives for excellence, seeking to be one of the premier policing agencies in the country. Our core values are Integrity, Service and Pride. We are seeking individuals with similar values to join us on our mission to promote public safety.