Title: Forensic Laboratory Specialist II - Forensic Biology - Western Laboratory - CF720

State Role Title: Laboratory and Research Specialist I

Hiring Range: $31,886 - $42,000

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Department of Forensic Science

Location: Western Lab

Agency Website: www.dfs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

This vacancy posting will fill one (1) position at the Western Regional Laboratory located in Roanoke, Virginia. The Virginia Department of Forensic Science is also filling two (2) Forensic Laboratory Specialist II positions at the Central Regional Laboratory. Positions for each Laboratory are posted separately, you must apply directly to each position that you would like to be considered for employment.
The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified applicant at the Western Regional Laboratory to assist forensic biologists / DNA examiners. Duties include assisting examiners with evidence preservation, handling evidence, and supervised recovery of evidentiary crime scene materials. Provides DNA casework support functions such as sample preparation, operation of the robotic DNA extraction workstation which includes DNA quantitation, dilutions and amplification set-up. Assists with support functions such as: quality control of critical reagents and equipment; preventive and routine maintenance on equipment including minor repair; reagent preparation, maintaining QA/QC documentation, autoclaving glassware, and inventorying and/or purchasing supplies. Also, assists with general laboratory upkeep including helping to maintain the tidiness of the laboratory, and restocking consumable supplies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience working in a scientific laboratory environment using basic laboratory equipment, techniques, and laboratory safety procedures
• Ability to maintain accurate records, analyze and interpret data, follow written protocols and oral instructions, manage multiple tasks efficiently, establish work priorities, and independently perform routine duties
• Ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner, both verbally and in writing
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation

Additional Considerations

• Experience handling human physiological fluids
• Experience with PCR-DNA amplification
• Experience with sample-handling robotics
• Experience in an accredited forensic science laboratory
• Work experience with computers in a laboratory environment

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

The Department of Forensic Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is V3 Virginia Values Veterans certified. The Department strictly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. Veterans, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
Applications for this position must be submitted electronically, through this website, no later than the position’s closing date stated in the announcement. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and resumes will not be accepted. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and/or resume and required transcripts (if applicable).
Applicants needing accommodations during the application and/or interview process may contact the Human Resource office at 804-786-0150 or dfshumanresource@dfs.virginia.gov for additional information. Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
DFS does not provide sponsorship; therefore, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
Background Investigation: Selected candidate(s) must successfully pass a background investigation to include a fingerprint-based criminal history check. Selected candidate(s) must provide a DNA sample via a buccal swab (saliva sample) and successfully pass a drug test. Reference checks will be conducted to include contact with current/previous supervisors.
Employment Eligibility Verification: DFS will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

Contact Information

Name: Tracey Kazelskis

Phone: 804-588-4000

Email: Tracey.Kazelskis@dfs.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.