Forensic Scientist 3 (In-Training) - Latent Prints

This position has been designated as “in-training”; as such WSP will consider filling this position at the Forensic Scientist 3, Forensic Scientist 2, or Forensic Scientist 1 level. The salary range will depend upon at which level the position is filled at and the qualifications of the successful candidate. 

Forensic Scientist 1: In-training 
 

Approx. 12 months

$4,835 to $6,539
 

Forensic Scientist 2: In-training 
 

Approx. 18 months
 

$5,370  to $7,226  
 

Forensic Scientist 3: In-training 
 

Approx. 6 months
 

$6,539 to $8,801 
 

About the Position:

A Forensic Scientist 3 (In-training) directly impacts the mission of the CLD by training to perform timely and accurate analyses of routine and complex casework, writing opinion reports, testifying to conclusions in courts of law, and providing training to criminal justice agencies.
 

This position is considered critical in the event of Washington State Patrols Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Designation – For Disaster or Emergency Recovery 

Priority 1 – Crime scene response to violent crime and other major events.
Priority 2 – Vital examination of evidence in violent criminal cases aimed at the identification and apprehension of dangerous suspects likely to re-offend.
Priority 3 – Evidence preservation and maintenance of chain of custody.
Priority 4 – Secure Crime Laboratory Division casework files and move them to a secure location. 

The Forensic Scientist interacts with various staff including, but not limited to, forensic scientists, the laboratory managers, administrative staff, representatives of criminal justice agencies, and the general public.  Work priorities are established through interactions with management, criminal justice agencies, prosecutors, and the capabilities and workload of the scientist.

About the Division: The Crime Laboratory Division (CLD) provides high quality forensic science services and training for Washington's criminal justice agencies that enhances public safety for the people of Washington.   

About the Agency:
The WSP actively supports Diversity, Equity, Inclusion in the workplace, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The WSP strives to create and foster an inclusive culture inspiring everyone to be their authentic selves, speak openly, and be courageous. The WSP continues to focus on equitable hiring, training, and promotional practices and policies through innovative recruitment and retention solutions.  Partnering with our communities helps the WSP provide the best in public safety services now and into the future.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Attentively listen and participate during training sessions; ask necessary clarifying questions.
• Read assigned literature with an aim of understanding and retaining information.
• Complete exercises with a goal of learning the task and being ready to be assessed on the topic.
• Discuss progress with trainer and supervisor; voice any concerns or areas where more information is needed prior to taking assessments.
• Document and maintain record of all training activities.
• Interprets and reaches scientific conclusions, supported by their data and observations.
• Abides by accreditation criteria.
• Work effectively in a team environment.
• Follow the mandated criteria established by the ANSI National Accreditation Board for forensics (ANAB).
• Assist with provide training as needed.
• Participate in assessment preparation and the internal audit program.
• Receives continuing education as it relates to Latent Prints, including functional area meetings, conferences, seminars, and other associated training.
• Participates in training events where forensic topics are presented to customer agencies.
• 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.  (Note: Issues with competency can lead to Quality Variances, Job Performance Improvement Plans and Internal Investigation Reports. These issues are disclosable under Brady and could impact your ability to testify which is an essential function of the job. This could impact your employment.)
• Respond to discovery requests, providing all appropriate material in a timely manner.
• Participate in interviews in regard to analysis if requested.

Tools and Equipment:
The tools and equipment are referred to in the Latent Print Technical manual. They include various cameras, ADAMS, light sources, balances, magnifiers, and ABIS. They also include the use of a computer for word processing, image processing, database management, spreadsheets, presentations, and related activities

Travel Requirements:
Some travel within and outside the state will be required for court testimony and attendance at meetings and training events.

Work Setting/ Hazards:
The setting is a forensic laboratory where chemical and biological hazards, drugs, firearms, and other hazards may be present.
Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Must possess a valid, unrestricted Washington State Driver's License or able to obtain one within 30 days of employment. 
• Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events.
• Bachelor’s degree in a natural science, forensic science, or closely related field from an accredited institution. 
  • 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.

Conditions of Employment:

• Successful completion of a pre-employment polygraph examination and background investigation.
• Provide an oral DNA sample to be used in the CODIS Elimination Profile Index.
• You must submit a current cover letter, and unofficial transcripts (high school/ GED and/ or college) when you apply.

Why work for the Washington State Patrol?

• Continuous growth and development opportunities. 
• Opportunities to serve your community and make an impact through meaningful work
• Employment opportunities that recognize military veterans and/or military spouse per Governor Executive Order 19-01
• Qualification for the Public Loan Forgiveness Program.

Supplemental Information

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies. 

Applicants claiming veterans preference must attach a copy of their DD214 (SSN must be blacked out). If you do not provide the required documentation, the veterans preference will not be awarded. 
 
WSP Policy 1.04.020 - WSP does not engage in, or assist with, civil immigration enforcement, therefore; In no stage of the hiring process will the immigration status of family members of the candidate be investigated by the Washington State Patrol.