Forensic Laboratory Specialist III - Toxicology - Division of Technical Services - CF224

Title: Forensic Laboratory Specialist III - Toxicology - Division of Technical Services - CF224

State Role Title: Laboratory and Research Specialist II

Hiring Range: $42,905 - $49,309

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Department of Forensic Science

Location: Dept of Forensic Science

Agency Website: www.dfs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified applicant to work full-time in the Division of Technical Services within the Toxicology Program Area. The Forensic Laboratory Specialist III will obtain, store, and perform immunoassay drug screening on deidentified impaired driving specimens. This position will adhere to the DFS quality assurance (QA) program in the creation and maintenance of critical reagents, utilization of laboratory equipment, and ensure the integrity of the laboratory specimens. Additional duties include supporting method development and validation efforts for the Toxicology discipline under the direction of the Toxicology Program Manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic theoretical principles and applications of the instrumentation and methodologies used to preserve and analyze toxicology samples
• Experience working in a scientific laboratory environment, including standard laboratory equipment, techniques, laboratory safety procedures, and operating and maintaining laboratory instrumentation
• Experience preparing solutions and reagents for use in a laboratory setting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner, both verbally and in writing
• 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
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation
  

Additional Considerations

• Experience performing and documenting QA procedures
• Experience handling biological fluids in a forensic or clinical toxicology laboratory
• Experience working in a laboratory environment performing qualitative and quantitative alcohol or drug testing
• Experience using laboratory information management software
• Experience working in an accredited forensic science laboratory
  

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 and 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.