Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) – Chemistry and Crime Scene Response

About the role

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Springfield, Oregon is hiring for one (1) Full-Time, Permanent Forensic Scientist position.

To learn more about the Forensic Services Division, click here.

Responsibilities

• Perform technical and scientific functions as they relate to the Criminal Justice System and in accordance with the policies of the Department of State Police, Forensic Services Division, accreditation procedures, and laws of the State of Oregon.
• Apply objective, scientific, and critical thinking skills to independently plan and problem solve challenges related to casework in the Chemistry and Crime Scene Response disciplines which meet the quality standards of the Division.
• Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in the response rotation as outlined in the Oregon State Police Officers Association contract.
• Perform accurate and timely analysis of evidence according to Division policies and procedures.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports to conform to accreditation standards, Division policies and procedures, and court proceedings.
• Manage assigned caseload while maintaining timely communications with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys’ offices, defense counsel, and Forensic Services Division employees.
• Provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.
• Prepare necessary reagents, standards, and controls to ensure quality results and act as a resource to support Forensic Services Division analysts.
• Receive and provide training related to assigned duties and perform other duties as needed or requested by the Laboratory Director or other supervisors of the Oregon State Police.
• Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.
• Absorb added responsibilities as authorized.

Requirements

• Five years experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited Forensic Laboratory AND a Bachelor's degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology or a closely related field.
• If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology, or a closely related field.
• If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.

Preferred Skills

Demonstrated ability to self-direct work, perform as part of a team, and perform well under intense mental and physical conditions.

Demonstrated interpersonal and teamwork skills showing excellent collaboration with the public, external customers and peers.

Demonstrated ability to objectively and critically analyze information, sometimes in time-sensitive situations, then make a reasoned judgment.

Demonstrated ability to follow laboratory procedures in changing, high pressure environments while successfully handling multiple priorities.

Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills conveying technical information in a clear, effective, and professional manner to audiences of varying educational backgrounds.

Special Qualifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Must pass a urine analysis drug screen.
• Must pass all applicable background, credit, and criminal history checks.
• Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.