Forensic Scientist Trainee

The Pennsylvania State Police is actively looking to recruit a Forensic Scientist Trainee to join their team. This position involves participating in a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing knowledge and technical skills in areas such as drug identification, report writing, and providing testimony in court. Trainees will work closely under the guidance of a laboratory supervisor, who will assign tasks and review progress both during the work process and upon its completion. While the role initially requires limited technical expertise, it offers the opportunity for increased independence as the trainee gains experience and proficiency. If you are interested in pursuing a career in forensic science, we encourage you to apply today!

In this position, you will work under the direct guidance of a technical supervisor to conduct both qualitative and quantitative analyses on samples submitted for drug testing. Utilizing established identification methods such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and chromatography, you will follow the protocols detailed in the Drug Procedures Manual. The results of your analyses will culminate in a comprehensive report that identifies the evidence examined and determines whether it constitutes a controlled substance, which will then be submitted to the requesting agency.

Additionally, you will engage in a training program aimed at enhancing your skills in identifying controlled drug substances and related chemical compounds, as well as in crafting precise and clear analytical reports suitable for courtroom presentation. It is essential to maintain thorough and accurate documentation of all testing processes and results within the case file. You will also receive training on the various techniques for collecting, preserving, handling, and receiving physical evidence, emphasizing the significance of these practices in maintaining the integrity of evidence and supporting courtroom testimony. Compliance with all policies and procedures outlined in the Pennsylvania State Police Program, as well as the Quality Assurance and Safety Manuals, is mandatory. When necessary, you will serve as an expert witness, providing testimony regarding chain of custody, analytical techniques, and the findings from your analyses.

Furthermore, you will undertake additional tasks as required to ensure the laboratory operates efficiently, including responsibilities outlined in the Bureau of Forensic Services' Continuity of Operation Plan (COOP) during the activation of the Department's COOP Plan, and you will respond to designated alternate or secondary locations as directed in the event of a catastrophic incident.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science, which includes or is supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
  
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
• This job title has been identified as performing critical duties. Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.