Forensic Chemist (Explosive)

Responsibilities

• Perform chemical analysis of recovered materials to detect and identify compounds present to include: explosives, homemade explosive pre-cursors, solvents, acids, bases, drugs, and other hazardous materials.
• Differentiate trace explosive signatures from contamination and background.
• Provide information to assist in profiling and signature analysis.
• Perform appropriate presumptive and confirmatory analyses utilizing the following: colorimetric tests, thin layer chromatography (TLC), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and other instrumentation or techniques as available.
• Evaluate samples to determine appropriate sample preparation techniques: solvent extraction/filtration, liquid-liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, solid phase micro-extraction, headspace extraction.
• Understand, and strive to implement, data quality and reporting guidelines established within the professional forensic community.
• Properly utilize reference standards (when available) to support the highest degree of confidence available in reported results.
• Perform instrument troubleshooting and maintenance.
• Develop and validate analytical techniques to accommodate emerging chemical analysis requirements.
• Interact and collaborate with other group/team members and other forensic staff to ensure a high quality and accurate product.

Qualifications

• Current DOD Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
• Ten (10) years of experience working in an accredited laboratory with explosive compounds.
• Degree from an accredited college or university in physical or life sciences with a minimum of 24 semester hours of chemistry coursework.
• Proficient in use of excel/spreadsheets and other data bases.
• Ability to explain technical subject matter to non-technical audience.
• Completion of formalized training program and subsequent performance as certified examiner within drug chemistry, trace analysis, explosives chemistry or related discipline.
• Experience working within a CEXC, WTI, C-IED Team, DTK Lab, JEFF, TEDAC facility, other NGIC, DIA or ATF Lab; interagency or state/local law enforcement environment is preferred but not required.

Pay

Pay Transparency Statement AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $100,000.00/Yr. - USD $120,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law.

Benefits

AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.