Forensic Scientist I - Toxicology Unit

This position is a Forensic Scientist I within the Toxicology Unit, within the Forensic Chemistry Section in the Forensic Services Division of the Massachusetts State Police. The incumbent will undergo on the job training and education within the MA State Police Crime Laboratory’s accreditation framework so they may meet the standards for becoming a fully competent Forensic Scientist and will apply basic principles, practices and techniques to the work performed.

The incumbent will train in the following, at a minimum: procedures for analysis, identification and reporting of substances identified in submitted biological specimens (postmortem and antemortem), as well as being prepared to testify in the court of law as to the results of those examinations.

As applicable to the unit’s core function, through a formal training program, incumbents will:

• Complete comprehensive training in current methods and techniques used to conduct chemical and biological laboratory tests or on-site tests including, but not limited to, analyzing biological specimens and organic and inorganic substances; preparing solutions to be used in testing; and operating laboratory equipment.
• Develop proficiency in applying established protocols and procedures to determine the presence of alcohol, drugs, poisons, heavy metals, biological fluids (i.e. blood, semen, saliva, urine, and feces) as well as chemical and trace materials such as gunshot residues, hairs, fibers, paint and glass by examining clothes, weapons, sexual assault kits, and analyzing explosives/ignitable liquids to prepare reports on laboratory tests and to inform law enforcement and other authorized personnel of results.
• Engage in practical application of learned methods and procedures for performing on-site scene processing to properly document, collect and transport evidence to the laboratory for further analysis and to analyze chemical and biological samples for the purpose of yielding probative results.
• Provide testimony as an expert and/or material witness in court and/or at formal judicial hearings in order to defend the findings of a test examination or analysis, provide opinions on test results/examinations, demonstrate scientific procedures, and to explain test procedures and other job-related functions.
• Follow formal instruction to provide technical advice and/or assistance by telephone, at on-site scenes or in laboratory settings to police and/or fire or legal personnel on immediate measures to be taken in obtaining and handling physical evidence. Confer with investigators regarding facts and suspicions pertaining to cases to determine the types of tests to be performed.
• Reinforce practices for maintaining the chain of custody for all evidence handled by adhering to laboratory protocols for requesting, receiving, packaging, returning and documenting contact with case-related items and materials.
• Calibrate laboratory equipment by following documented procedures and laboratory protocols for ensuring that equipment is functioning within the operating parameters set for achieving valid test results and analytical outcomes.
• Adhere to quality assurance measures and accreditation standards as mandated by all applicable rules, policies, protocols and procedures.
• Undergo periodic reviews to affirm that training benchmarks are being met and to satisfactorily complete all proficiency and competency tests required to successfully complete the training program.

Comprehensive Benefits

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