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Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1 (Drug Chemistry)

This full-time position will provide evaluation, examination, analysis, and data interpretation for evidence collected from criminal investigations to inform and support the criminal justice system. These activities will be conducted within the Drug Chemistry Section of the MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Forensic Science Services. They include the use of a variety of scientific techniques and instrumentation to analyze items of evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies for the presence or absence of controlled substance. These activities will be conducted in adherence to the agency policies and procedures in a manner that embodies the mission, vision, and values of the MN BCA. These positions will also participate in the training, evaluation, continuing education, and quality assurance activities needed for the delivery of accurate and reliable results to agency stakeholders, including expert witness testimony. Following successful completion of the necessary training programs and establishment within the drug chemistry discipline, these positions may be eligible to participate in the crime scene processing training series for inclusion in the Crime Scene Response Program.

Additional information for the Trainee – Forensic Scientist 1 classification. The duration of the trainee appointment is typically limited to twelve (12) months; any extension, if approved, will not exceed a total training period of eighteen (18) months. Pay for trainees is a set salary of $28.26/hr. Prior professional level experience in a laboratory or advanced level degrees may shorten this period. Satisfactory performance and successful completion of the training program and competency test will determine if the trainee is appointed to the Forensic Scientist 1 classification. Participation in the trainee program does not guarantee permanent employment

Training will be in the Drug Chemistry discipline of the MN BCA Forensic Science Services and persons hired as a Forensic Scientist Trainee will typically be trained in topics including but not limited to:

1) Foundational principles and practical application of forensic procedures specific to the forensic discipline in which the trainee is employed

2) Methods of data analysis and interpretation

3) Effective courtroom testimony techniques

4) Quality assurance standards and practices in forensic science

5) Proper procedures for evidence handling, including chain of custody, examination, documentation, and reporting related to testing activities

6) Criminal court procedures and practices, with an emphasis on the rules of evidence and/or discipline specific regulations

Trainees will work with experienced scientists within the applicable section and throughout the BCA FSS during the training program.

Upon determination by the supervisor that the trainee has successfully completed their forensic discipline training program or completed enough modules to demonstrate they are working independently with higher levels of responsibility, trainees will be moved to probationary status in the classification of Forensic Scientist 1 and compensated within the salary range of $30.23 - $44.48 hourly; $63,120 - $92,874 annually. There will be a six-month probationary period required for certification.

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

1) A Bachelor’s or advanced degree* in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent. College degree must be awarded by time of hire.

2) Excellent oral and written communication skills.

3) Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.

*NOTE: ALL APPLICANTS MUST SUBMIT AN UNOFFICIAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPT(S) ALONG WITH THEIR RESUME. YOU CAN ATTACH A RESUME AND A SECOND ATTACHMENT WITH YOUR TRANSCRIPTS OR COMBINE THE DOCUMENTS AS A SINGLE ATTACHMENT. PLEASE UPLOAD USING THE COVER LETTER ATTACHMENT TYPE IN EITHER PDF OR DOCX FORMAT. APPLICANTS WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY REJECTED IF TRANSCRIPTS ARE NOT ATTACHED TO THE APPLICATION.

Current students who are within six (6) months of graduating with the required bachelor’s degree can apply to official job postings and offers would be contingent upon successful completion of degree.

Preferred Qualifications

1) A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent.

2) Demonstrated knowledge and use of laboratory quality assurance procedures and evidence handling

3) Experience in a forensic laboratory gained through an internship or work experience; or work experience performing examinations similar to those conducted in a forensic or analytical laboratory

4) Experience with standard computer software (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets)

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting 50-pound items and frequently moving and transporting objects such as heavy tools and heavy file boxes. This job may require positioning self to move to a significant degree across rough terrain or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.

Additional Requirements

For all classifications:

A Criminal History Background check and reference checks will be completed on the prospective employee. Additional components to the background check for this position will include the following:

1) A criminal history check

2) Reference check

3) Fingerprinting (MNJIS/CJIS)

4) Psychological Evaluation

5) Driver License history

6) Education verification

7) Drug screen to include cannabis

8) SEMA4 records, personnel file and employment records (current and former state employees only)

Application Details

How to Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Madison Markgraf at madison.markgraf@state.mn.us

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Madison Markgraf at madison.markgraf@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

A sense of purpose in their work
Connection with their coworkers and communities
Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

Paid vacation and sick leave
12 paid holidays each year
Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

Training, classes, and professional development
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need. For accommodations or questions about accessibility specifically relating to this job announcement, please email the Affirmative Action Division at marna.johnson@state.mn.us or call 651-539-1875.