Forensic Science Technician (Casework Liaison)

This position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS). The mission of the DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services using best practices and best available technology, focusing on unbiased science and transparency, to enhance public safety and health.

The incumbent is responsible for coordinating and consolidating all of the necessary information (e-mails, phone calls, paperwork submission, etc.) related to the testing request for physical evidence submitted to DFS. The position supports the caseworking units of the laboratory and requires basic knowledge of the various forensic testing methods, evidence submission and testing request policies, procedures and protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities

Receives and reviews requests for analysis from DFS stakeholders for the DFS cases. Supports the coordination of evidence transfers to the caseworking units of the laboratory. Communicates with internal and external stakeholders regarding cases. Keeps abreast of current industry, scientific and regulatory developments and issues; communicates strategies to accommodate change; and prepares clear, concise, reports and presentations.

Plans and carries out procedural processes as required, seek assistance as needed, and independently coordinates work efforts with others when necessary. Exercises initiative while developing solutions to common procedural problems such as changes in priorities.

Qualifications and Education

A degree in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position.

OR

Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as listed above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position and is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must be equivalent to at least the next lower grade in the normal line of progression.

Licensures and Certifications

None

Working Conditions/Environment

This position’s duty station will be housed within the Consolidated Forensic Laboratory (CFL) which is a protection-sensitive facility. As such, incumbents of this position are designated as safety-sensitive and shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, and other requirements as applicable. Due to the handling of primary evidence, the applicant will be required to submit a buccal swab for the purposes of the DNA Quality Control database for the DFS.

The nature of the DFS mission necessarily involves the potential risks associated with biological or chemical hazards, including morgue functions. Although contact with these functions is intended to be minimal, the risks are nevertheless possible; training to recognize, address, and mitigate these risks is required as is dealing with potentially personally difficult topics, such as crime, death, and disease.

The work is performed in an office setting and laboratory setting.

Other Significant Factors

Tour of Duty: Monday-Friday 08:30am – 5:00pm, Monday-Friday

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0401-09

Promotion Potential: No known promotion potential.

Type of Appointment: Career Service – Term Appointment, Not-to-Exceed (NTE) 13-months. This is a grant funded position; continued employment will be contingent upon available funding.

Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) Local R3-09, and subject to pay an agency service fee (union dues) through direct payroll deduction.

Position Suitability: This position has been deemed Security Sensitive under the guidelines of the DC Personnel Manual. Incumbents of this position are subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC personnel regulations. Accordingly, you must successfully pass a criminal background and drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment and will be subject to periodic criminal background checks, background investigations, and drug tests for the duration of your tenure.

Position Designation: This position has been designated as Emergency and acceptance of this offer confirms you agree to adhere to the policies in sections 1271 and 1274 of DPM Chapter 12, regarding essential/emergency employees. As an essential employee, you will be required to either report to work, stay at work, or telework (if directed to do so) during a declared emergency or during a period of non-emergency where your duties have been deemed as critical District government functions/operations. You may be required to perform other duties outside of your position description during a period of a declared emergency (such as manual labor, shelter services, etc.).

Residency Preference: Applicants claiming “Residency Preference” will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.