Primary Responsibilities:

• Perform laboratory analysis of physical evidence in complex casework using accepted scientific methods.
• Scientifically analyzes evidence in routine, and in increasingly non-routine and complex casework in an area(s) in which they have been validated proficiently and in accordance with established productivity standards.
• Documents and protects evidence in accordance with current laboratory procedures, ensuring that the chain of custody is maintained.
• Completes analyses of high quality, performed using forensically accepted scientific methods, and in accordance with the current CLD Operations and Quality manuals and applicable technical procedures.
• Provide technical review and administrative review of casework.
• May respond to requests for assistance at crime scenes.
• Follow the mandated criteria established by the national accreditation board for forensics (ANAB).
• Participate in the proficiency testing program by successfully completing all assigned proficiencies and competencies.
• Learns and applies laws, policies, and procedures, as specified in the RCW, the WAC and federal regulations as they relate to scientific examination of evidence.
• Testify in a court of law presenting findings to a jury in a manner that is designed to be readily understood
• Maintaining competency in casework analyses.
• Participate in interviews in regard to analysis if requested

Required Qualifications:

• Forensic Scientist 1: No technical experience in a forensic laboratory is required.
• Forensic Scientist 2: One year of technical experience in a forensic laboratory performing analysis of physical evidence.
• Forensic Scientist 3: Three years of technical experience in a forensic laboratory performing analysis of physical evidence, which includes testifying as an expert witness in courts of law.
• Valid Driver’s License
• Must provide an oral DNA sample to be used in the CODIS Elimination Profile Index
• Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19
• Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events.

• Equivalent education/experience at or above the minimum required for the Forensic Scientist level being hired may substitute for the education requirement, on a case by case basis.

• 10 semester hours or 15 quarter hours of physics coursework
• 20 semester hours or 30 quarter hours of chemistry coursework
• Experience with basic computer systems, word processing, data management, and image processing and storage.
• Knowledge of basic chemistry concepts to include: handling and storage of hazardous chemicals and preparation of chemical reagents.
• Knowledge of analytical instrument software and data interpretation.
• Knowledge of the science of controlled substance, trace evidence, crime scene, latent fingerprints, questioned documents, firearms and toolmarks, and DNA.
• Knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Familiarity with ISO 17025 and Supplemental certification requirements.