Forensic Scientist II - Toxicology

This position is a Forensic Scientist II within the Toxicology Unit, within the Forensic Chemistry Section in the Forensic Services Division of the Massachusetts State Police. This level of Forensic Scientist is a competent scientist able to perform analysis and report their results. It is expected that applicants for this position have been trained and are competent in one or more areas of Forensic Toxicology.

At this level, incumbents seek guidance and advice from more experienced colleagues, and focus on utilizing acquired knowledge, skills, and abilities to work independently and complete casework of higher complexity.

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 an authorized Forensic Scientist and will apply basic principles, practices and techniques to the work performed.

In addition to the functions performed at the Forensic Scientist I level (entry level), and as applicable to the unit’s core function, incumbents apply acquired knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the following:

• Where needed, complete comprehensive training or modified training in current approved laboratory methods and techniques 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.
• Demonstrate proficiency in applying established protocols and procedures to determine the presence of alcohol, drugs, and poisons in biological fluids (i.e. blood, semen, saliva, urine, and feces) 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.
• 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.
• Maintain 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.
• Perform quality control tasks on 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 performance benchmarks are being met and to satisfactorily complete applicable proficiency and/or competency tests as required by the laboratory.
• Conduct administrative and technical review of casework.
• Conduct seminars, lectures, and demonstrations before civic and professional groups, medical, legal and law enforcement personnel and judicial institutions.
• Provide specialized training to Assistant District Attorneys, police and fire personnel on the collection and preservation of evidence and on laboratory operations.
• Provide technical advice and direction to less experienced Forensic Scientists, law enforcement, fire, medical and/or legal personnel

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Requirements:

Applicants must have a Bachelors degree in the natural sciences, including Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Forensic Science, Pharmacology or Physics and (A) at least one year of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional experience as a bench chemist or forensic scientist in a crime laboratory or comparable setting and (B) full competence as a forensic analyst within an accredited laboratory in a relevant forensic science specialization.

Special Requirements:

Incumbents are required to have a current and valid motor vehicle drivers license at a class level specific to assignment.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

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