Forensic Chemist I

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3/20/2026 (8:00 PM EDT)

26-01222

Forensic Chemist I

Pay Grade 14

Salary

$50,000.00 Annually

Employment Type

EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 40.0 HR/WK

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Hiring Agency

Justice & Public Safety Cabinet | Kentucky State Police

Location

100 Sower Blvd

Frankfort, KY 40601 USA

Description

Kentucky State Police is the premier, full-service law enforcement agency in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With the highest level of professionalism and integrity the Kentucky State Police works to prevent, reduce, and deter crime and the fear of crime; enhance highway safety through education and enforcement; protect and safeguard individual rights; and provide leadership, training, technical, and operational support to the criminal justice community.

A Forensic Chemist may be hired for Toxicology, Drug Chemistry, or Trace Analysis. Forensic Chemists in Toxicology process blood and urine through a series of chemical and instrumental tests for DUI cases. Forensic Chemists in Drug Chemistry analyze and report results on seized drug evidence using various chemical and instrumental tests. Forensic Chemists in Trace Analysis will be trained to work several different disciplines within the Trace Analysis section. Due to the nature of Trace Analysis, evidence submissions may include items collected in suspected arson cases, hairs, fibers, glass, paint chips, suspected gun-shot residue, and unknown specimens believed to be something other than drugs.

The Forensic Chemist Training Program lasts approximately one year and includes pertinent reading assignments, practical examinations on known specimens, a mock trial for testimony, and a competency test for each discipline for which an analyst works cases. Upon successful completion of the training program, the newly trained analyst will generally process casework under the direction of experienced analysts for a set period of time.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyzes unknown and known substances submitted by law enforcement agencies to determine properties and identity.
• Receives specialized training in designated forensic disciplines.
• Compiles and reviews laboratory reports regarding analysis of submitted evidence.
• Maintains review of work-related literature and other documents.
• Provides testimony throughout the Commonwealth pertaining to forensic analysis and reports.
• Receives and releases evidence and is responsible for the security of such evidence until released.
• Maintains laboratory instrumentation.
• Responds to crime scenes and other work-related special details.
  
  

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication
• Ability to multi-task
• Strong problem solver
  
  

If you are interested in a challenging yet rewarding career as a Kentucky State Police Forensic Chemist where you can make a positive difference in your local community we would love to review your application.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATION: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related science field.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: NONE

Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE: NONE

Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION: NONE

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE

Working Conditions

Incumbents in this classification will typically perform their job duties in a forensic laboratory setting. May have some contact with contagious diseases and/or body fluids or regular exposure to noxious odors, chemical substances, and biohazardous compounds, which may require the following of safety procedures. Regular handling of sharp surgical instruments.

Probationary Period

This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 12 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.

If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Jack Reid at jack.reid@ky.gov .

An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D