FORENSIC TECHNICIAN

The Department

The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state’s premier public safety agency.

Primary Responsibilities

• Receive, document, and preserve physical and digital forensic evidence in accordance with chain-of-custody protocols.
• Utilize forensic software and laboratory instruments to analyze and catalog evidence.
• Absorb and prepare materials, solutions, and equipment for laboratory testing under the guidance of forensic scientists.
• Operate and maintain specialized forensic instruments used in evidence examination.
• Follow safety protocols and laboratory best practices to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.
• Maintain detailed logs, reports, and case files to document forensic procedures and findings.
• Work alongside forensic analysts, law enforcement agencies, and legal teams to support case investigations.
• Provide technical assistance in evidence handling and preservation.
• Ensure forensic procedures comply with state and federal regulations, legal standards, and accreditation requirements.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of forensic science principles, medicolegal death investigations, and laboratory techniques.
• Familiarity with forensic instrumentation, imaging techniques, and evidence-handling procedures.
• Ability to assist in preliminary analysis under supervision.
• High level of accuracy in documenting and processing forensic evidence.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple cases, maintain records, and track evidence.
• Ability to identify and minimize risks of contamination or procedural errors.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for reports and interdepartmental collaboration.
• Strong understanding of legal procedures, evidence handling, and chain-of-custody requirements.
• Ability to work with sensitive and sometimes disturbing case materials while maintaining professionalism.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least one year of experience in forensic analysis, laboratory work, crime scene processing, medicolegal death investigation, evidence management, or a related field.