Forensic Laboratory Specialist VI - DNA Databank - Division of Technical Services - GF479

Title: Forensic Laboratory Specialist VI - DNA Databank - Division of Technical Services - GF479

State Role Title: Scientist II

Hiring Range: $56,052-$58,195

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Department of Forensic Science

Location: Dept of Forensic Science

Agency Website: www.dfs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

This is a re-advertisement; previous applicants will need to re-apply to be considered.

This is a grant funded position and is currently funded through September 30, 2025. It is anticipated that the grant will be renewed.

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science, Division of Technical Services, DNA Data Bank, is seeking a qualified applicant to independently perform sample accessioning and scientific analyses on DNA Data Bank samples. Duties include high throughput buccal sample accessioning, data entry and communicating with user agencies regarding samples and the DNA Data Bank Sample Tracking System. Duties also include DNA isolation and PCR-based STR fluorescence imaging analysis using state-of-the-art analytical methodologies, techniques, and instrumentation, interpreting results, and conducting independent technical review of data. This position is subject to working in high security areas governed by the US Department of Justice's "Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Security Policy".

Minimum Qualifications

• B.A./B.S. degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or related scientific field
• College courses (graduate or undergraduate level) totaling a minimum of nine cumulative semester hours with genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology (molecular genetics or recombinant DNA technology) as the main topics, as well as college course work in statistics and/or population genetics
• Experience with sample accessioning/data entry in a laboratory environment
• Experience handling biological samples in a scientific laboratory
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and QA/QC 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
• This position requires Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) certification, and the employee must obtain such certification as soon as practical. The VCIN system is administered by the Virginia State Police. In order to qualify for VCIN certification, the State Police require that those individuals must be U.S. citizens or must have lawfully resided in the U.S. for the past 10 consecutive years.
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation
  

Additional Considerations

• A minimum of six months human DNA laboratory experience
• Successful completion of a documented training program from an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited private, local, state, or federal forensic science laboratory and demonstration of competency in forensic DNA PCR-based STR analysis using the capillary electrophoresis platform
• Experience handling high throughput samples in a professional scientific laboratory
• Experience performing DNA isolation and amplification with PCR kits used in forensic laboratories
• Experience using the AB3130xl and/or AB3500xl capillary electrophoresis instrument in a professional laboratory
• Experience as a CODIS user
  
  

Trainee:
If a fully qualified DNA DATA BANK ANALYST cannot be found, the position will be filled as a trainee. The training will last approximately 8-10 months, dependent upon the qualifications of the successful candidate.

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 E