DNA Forensic Analyst

State of Maine • Augusta, ME

2d • $64,041 - $89,987 • Onsite

About The Position

This is professional services work involving the scientific examination, testing, and analysis of biological evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies and medical examiners concerning criminal investigations, identification of remains, and DNA databasing. Responsibilities include examining and analyzing evidence by employing valid forensic DNA and serological tests, evaluating data, preparing a written expert opinion concerning the DNA profile results and conclusions, and testifying as an expert witness in a court of law. Work is performed under limited supervision. A successful candidate can work with a broad community, including but not limited to federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement professionals, legal professionals, vendors, other crime laboratories, communications media, and community resource groups. This position answers to the Forensic Biology Supervisor, whose direct report is the Crime Laboratory Director/Lieutenant.

Requirements

• Knowledge of forensic DNA principles, laboratory techniques, procedures, and technology.
• Knowledge of physical evidence collection and preservation techniques.
• Knowledge of rules of evidence.
• Knowledge of forensic serology.
• Knowledge of Electrophoresis.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of quantitative/qualitative organic chemistry.
• Knowledge of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, statistics, and/or population genetics.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Knowledge of forensic DNA laboratory proficiency and validation studies.
• Ability to perform forensic DNA - PCR analyses.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret forensic DNA test results.
• Ability to present and defend findings in a court of law.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to write clearly and effectively.
• Ability to examine, analyze, identify, and compare various types of physical evidence.
• Ability to prepare reagents and solutions.
• A seven year combination of education, training, and/or experience comprised of a Bachelors Degree in a biological, chemical, or forensic science which includes training or coursework in the areas of genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology -AND- three years experience in forensic analysis which includes training or experience in the location, identification, and genetic characterization of body fluids.

Responsibilities

• Examines and analyzes various types of biological evidence using scientifically valid laboratory tests/procedures to identify inclusions and exclusions of DNA profiles between evidence, known references, and database samples.
• Explains and interprets forensic DNA results and conclusions, their scientific basis, and statistical significance in criminal court proceedings to provide expert testimony.
• Liaisons with federal, state, county, and local law enforcement agencies, the medical and scientific communities, and communications media to explain analytical results and provide information concerning forensic DNA services at the Crime Laboratory.
• Trains law enforcement personnel in proper methods of handling physical items to ensure the integrity and continuity of case evidence and the Crime Laboratory’s forensic DNA analysis capabilities.
• Participates in programs including DNA proficiency tests, quality assurance, and laboratory safety to maintain national accreditation and ensure the integrity of analytical testing and Writes and maintains daily logs, reports, and case records to document information for future reference and Orders and maintains stock levels of supplies, reagents, and chemicals to ensure sufficient inventory required to perform testing/services.
• Writes technical reports and opinions of analytical results and conclusions to document and provide expert written opinion and courtroom testimony.

Benefits

• Work-Life Fit – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
• Health Insurance Coverage – The State of Maine pays 85%-95% of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
• Dental Insurance – The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($387.92 annual value).
• Retirement Plan – The State contributes the equivalent of 14.11% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS) for MSEA, or 18.91% for Confidential employees.
• State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level