Forensic DNA Scientist 1

Begin an exciting career while using your knowledge in forensic science! The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is seeking a Forensic DNA Scientist 1 to join our staff in the Bureau of Forensic Services. Your work in this role will help us continue providing the criminal justice community with testing services and technical and investigative support in the pursuit of justice. Apply today and become an integral member of our team!

In this position, you will examine, analyze, and compare DNA from reference and evidentiary materials submitted to the DNA laboratory for the purpose of identifying a forensic genetic profile. Your work will include conducting scientific DNA analysis associated with criminal investigative casework involving large amounts of cellular material and a small number of items of evidence from which results are easily obtained. This will involve isolating, extracting, and amplifying human DNA from blood or physiological fluid-stained items. You will identify the genetic profile of the extracted forensic DNA using various chemical and biological techniques. Additionally, you will perform practical exercises and supervised casework assigned to develop proficiency in conducting forensic DNA analysis of a wide variety of evidentiary material.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Successful completion of the Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or
• Successful completion of the Forensic Scientist Trainee program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration) and three credits each in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics; or
• One year of professional laboratory work experience in the chemical, physical, or biological analysis and comparison of substances or materials, and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science, which includes or is supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry and three credits each in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency. 
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements: 

• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
• This job title has been identified as performing critical duties.  Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. 
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position. 

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions. 
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.