Job Specification Details

Professional laboratory and field work involving chemical and criminological analysis of materials, samples, and evidence for the State Forensic Laboratory. Work includes laboratory material comparisons and examinations in conjunction with police investigations. Work is performed under the supervision of the Senior Forensic Chemist

Performs chemical, criminalistic, microscopic, and physical analysis and comparisons of materials and samples, interprets data, draws conclusions, and formulates opinions using techniques and instrumentation as necessary in order to identify link, compare, and discover their individuality and relationships to persons, place, or objects for use as evidence in criminal proceedings. Conducts on-scene collection and preservation of evidence. Receives, maintains, records, and keeps custody of incoming physical samples and legal or criminal evidence in order to preserve and maintain chain of custody of evidence and information for use in future criminal proceedings. Holds, returns, or disposes of materials and samples after analysis. Prepares interpretative reports of findings. Testifies under oath as an expert witness. Prepares reagents, including those of a hazardous nature. Instructs and lectures on the recognition, collection, and preservation of evidence. Evaluates technical literature and analytical procedures. Attends training courses, conferences, and seminars. Performs related work as required.

Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to noxious or harmful fumes and chemicals and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment. Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator's license.

Considerable knowledge of organic chemistry/biochemistry/biology.

Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of analytical chemistry by bench analysis and instrumental analysis techniques.

Knowledge of biochemistry.

Knowledge of modern chemical laboratory methods, equipment, and materials.

Knowledge of inorganic physical chemistry and genetics.

Knowledge of the properties of hazardous and toxic material substances, their physiological effects, and proper methods and procedures for disposal.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of criminalistics in a major discipline such as arson, drugs, and serology/DNA.

Knowledge of the rules of evidence.

Knowledge of proper sample collection procedures in a major discipline as described.

Knowledge of basic forensic methods.

Skill in the use and care of chemical laboratory equipment and materials.

Ability to interpret raw data.

Ability to formulate valid conclusions on the basis of tests and data.

Ability to make and defend decisions.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Ability to pass a moot court in a major discipline.

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, forensic science, or a related science field AND EITHER two (2) years or more of professional laboratory experience performing biochemical, organic, physical, or toxicological chemical analysis OR one (1) year or more of professional forensic laboratory experience performing analysis on items of forensic evidence.

OR

Master's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, forensic science, or a related science field.

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