This position has been designated as "in-training". As such, WSP will consider filling this position at the Forensic Scientist 1, Forensic Scientist 2, or Forensic Scientist 3 level. The salary range will depend upon at which level the position is filled at and the qualifications of the successful candidate. 

About the Position:

A Forensic Scientist in the CSRT discipline directly impacts the mission of the CLD by performing independent, timely and accurate analyses of routine and complex casework, writing opinion reports, testifying to conclusions in courts of law, and providing training to criminal justice agencies.

This position is considered critical in the event of Washington State Patrols Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Designation. For Disaster or Emergency Recovery. Priority 1: Crime scene response to violent crime and other major events. Priority 2: Vital examination of evidence in violent criminal cases aimed at the identification and apprehension of dangerous suspects likely to re-offend. Priority 3: Evidence preservation and maintenance of chain of custody. Priority 4: Secure Crime Laboratory Division casework files and move them to a secure location.

The Forensic Scientist interacts with various staff including, but not limited to, forensic scientists, the laboratory managers, administrative staff, representatives of criminal justice agencies, and the general public.  Work priorities are established through interactions with management, criminal justice agencies, prosecutors, and the capabilities and workload of the scientist. About the Division:

The Crime Laboratory Division (CLD) provides high quality forensic science services and training for Washington's criminal justice agencies that enhances public safety for the people of Washington.   

About the Agency: The WSP actively supports Diversity, Equity, Inclusion *in the workplace, and is an *Equal Opportunity Employer.* *The WSP strives to create and foster an inclusive culture inspiring everyone to be their authentic selves, speak openly, and be courageous. The WSP continues to focus on equitable hiring, training, and promotional practices and policies through innovative recruitment and retention solutions. Partnering with our communities helps the WSP provide the best in public safety services now and into the future.

Duties:

• Responds to requests for assistance at crime scenes.

• Scientifically analyzes evidence in routine, non-routine and complex casework in an area(s) in which they have been authorized and are proficient and productive.

• Formulates sound conclusions from data without exceeding the boundaries of the data. Data may result from complex analyses involving multiple methods and techniques, multiple items and examinations.

• Reports scientific findings in the form of a written forensic laboratory report based on the interpretation of observations and analytical test results.

• Documents and protects evidence in accordance with current laboratory procedures, ensuring that the chain of custody is maintained.

• Testify as an expert witness in courts of law

• Maintaining competency in casework analysis. 

• Respond to discovery requests, providing all appropriate material in a timely manner.

• Follow the standards of accreditation (ANAB), laboratory and agency policies.

• Participates in the proficiency testing program by successfully completing all assigned proficiencies and competencies.

• Assures that all assigned instruments have undergone the appropriate performance checks and maintenance.