Forensic Scientist I - Toxicology

Duties

Essential Functions

• Maintain and operate equipment essential for performing casework; assist in routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
• Collect, receive, preserve, and handle physical evidence; implement evidence control; document and maintain chain of custody; and preserve the integrity of evidence examined.
• Follow standard LVMPD Forensic Laboratory operating procedures.
• Independently examine evidence and draw scientific conclusions.
• Multi-task to meet caseload requirements.
• Maintain accurate and complete records; prepare detailed notes to properly document analyses and comprehensive written reports regarding examinations and conclusions.
• Operate specialized software on equipment and multiple computer platforms.
• Prepare a variety of chemical reagents, solutions, standards and controls using established forensic laboratory practices.
• Research technical journals, textbooks and forensic science manuals to determine best methods of performing analytical tests; develop and perform validation methods for new techniques and instrumentation; apply principles and practices of the quality assurance program.
• Perform the following functions, if assigned to the Seized Drugs Unit: Respond to scenes of suspected controlled substance manufacturing or unknown chemical hazards; evaluate crime scenes to determine the hazards involved and the need for additional personal protective equipment; evaluate the chemicals, glassware and equipment to determine if controlled substances are being manufactured; collect samples.
• Testify in court as an expert witness.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Training, Education and Experience

• A bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited college or university in a chemical, physical, or biological science, or a forensic science related field and successful completion of at least 24 college level credits in chemistry, including credits earned in chemistry laboratory.* Applicants MUST attach a copy of their LEGIBLE transcript(s), which demonstrates proof of educational requirements, to their application at the time of submission as outlined in the Application Filing Section. Failure to attach a legible qualifying transcript will result in automatic disqualification.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Nevada driver license.
• Be a citizen/naturalized citizen or permanent resident alien without conditions on status of the United States of America by the date of the first test instrument.
• Be at least 18 years old by the date of the first test instrument.

Best Candidates Will Have

• Professional experience working in a forensic laboratory.
• Experience operating laboratory equipment and using laboratory techniques and safety procedures.
• Experience identifying and resolving discrepancies/anomalies in a professional work setting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organization and multi-tasking wills with the ability to prioritize assignments.

Conditions of Employment:

• Will be subjected to random drug testing as part of the LVMPD Department Drug Testing Program.
• Must participate in training programs which include written, oral, and practical exercises and competency tests.
• Are expected to satisfactorily complete the defined training program as assigned within two years in order to progress to Forensic Scientist I.
• May be terminated from employment for failing to satisfactorily complete training within the period determined by laboratory management.
• Are required to submit a DNA sample for entry into the LVMPD DNA Staff Elimination Index System.
• Are required to maintain a Nevada driver license for commuting between the regular workplace and offsite work locations, such as the courts.
• Are required to be on call, respond to clandestine laboratories, and perform job duties associated with responding to clandestine laboratories, if assigned to the Clandestine Lab Response Team in the Seized Drugs Unit.

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