Forensic Technician II - DNA Casework

About the role

Conduct examinations and analysis on evidence submitted to SLED for the location and identification of biological evidence; perform aspects of DNA analysis as appropriate. When required, provide written reports based on interpretation of analysis results. Provide expert testimony in federal, state, and local courts. Represent SLED, Forensic Services, and the DNA Casework Department in a professional manner at all times.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate case information and appropriately examine items for biological evidence using defined protocols for location, screening, and identification of body fluids.
• Perform various aspects of the DNA analysis process.
• Document examination/testing information on departmental worksheets accurately and clearly.
• When appropriate, properly interpret results and prepare a formal written report in accordance with departmental reporting requirements and procedures.
• Maintain complete and proper chain of custody for all evidence taken into employee's custody.
• Properly document and preserve evidence for further testing.
• Coordinate with other sections or departments to ensure that all requested analysis is appropriately prioritized and evidence is preserved to the extent possible.
• Properly utilize all necessary software and hardware, such as the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or photography equipment to document all case-related information.
• Properly use the LIMS to retrieve appropriate case-related information.
• Properly document all case-related communications with other parties.
• Maintain professional level of communication at all times.
• Effectively interact with other departmental personnel, agency personnel, and other members of the legal community as part of a team.
• Provide expert testimony in federal, state, and local courts. Where appropriate, present scientific results of analyses and interpret these results to the court.
• Participate in pre-trial conferences and hearings, and respond appropriately to requests by the court and other associated parties.
• Participate in training and seminars as requested for training of new employees and continuing education.
• Conduct training for other internal or external groups as requested by the departmental supervisor or team leader.
• Perform other departmental duties including, but not limited to, research, validation, quality control, quality assurance, safety, inventory and ordering of supplies, and other responsibilities as directed by the departmental supervisor or team leader.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in a biological, chemical, forensic science, or related field is required or must be obtained within 90 days of the posting date.
• Must have a basic working knowledge of computers and commonly utilized computer programs.
• Must have a basic understanding of science and scientific principle involved in Serology and/or DNA analysis.
• Must have knowledge of safe handling and special precautions to handle and package biological materials.
• Must demonstrate effective communication skills.
• Must have the ability to obtain competency and maintain proficiency in appropriate categories of testing or job functions.
• Must be able to testify in court.
• Position may require overnight travel for training and/or court.
• Must be able to lift items up to 20 pounds.
• Must be able to work with putrefied evidence/odors.
• Will be expected to report to the Forensic Services Laboratory in Columbia, SC during normal business hours Monday-Friday (8:30am-5:00pm), and on-call as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a laboratory environment is preferred.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs