Property and Evidence Custodian

About the Position:

The Property and Evidence Custodian (PEC) provides expert evidence management and is responsible for the receipt, accessioning, storage and disposition of evidence submitted to the Toxicology Laboratory Division for forensic toxicology testing.

The PEC interacts with laboratory management (supervisors, managers, assistant division commander, division commander), all technical and/or administrative personnel, customers, including law enforcement agencies, attorneys, medical examiners and coroners. 

About the Division:

The Toxicology Laboratory's mission is to provide forensic toxicology services and training for our user agencies (or customers) within the criminal justice system. We are committed to the highest quality forensic services, which ultimately enhances public safety for the citizens of Washington. 

About the Agency:
The Washington State Patrol is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to foster an environment in which everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves, communicate openly, and act with courage. The WSP is dedicated to promoting fair and equitable hiring, training, and promotional practices through innovative recruitment and retention strategies.

Duties

Responsibilities:

• Receive, physical evidence.
• Screen request.
• Assign case number.
• Create electronic case file in the database.
• Complete chain of custody.
• Enter evidence data into the computerized laboratory database.
• Appropriately store evidence.
• Release evidence to forensic scientists.
• Release evidence back to submitting agencies, either in person or via other mail carrier.
• Maintain case files and all evidence transaction records
• Conduct periodic inventory and audit of evidence.
• Testify in court regarding chain of custody if required.
• Maintain a safe work environment.
• Provide office support.

Work Setting/ Hazards:
The working environment is a Toxicology Laboratory where hazardous and biohazardous chemicals and evidence must be safely handled following safety guidelines. Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events.

Schedule:
Eight-hour workdays Monday through Friday are typical.  Hours may be flexible upon approval of management.

Travel Requirements:
Travel throughout the state may be required for training and meetings or evidence transport to/from the Federal Way Toxicology Laboratory.  Transportation is by pool car or other approved means such as air travel if necessary.

Tools and Equipment:
General office equipment, office and laboratory software, and personal protective equipment and supplies.

Customer Interactions:
Interact with medical examiners, coroners, attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and representatives of the various courier services. Must maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
 

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Washington State Driver's License. ( A valid driver's license is required to transport evidence)
• Must be willing and able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Testify in court regarding chain of custody if required.

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 when you apply.