Forensic Scientist I or II

Provide scientific support to the State's criminal justice system by use of accepted techniques for examining firearm and toolmark related evidence items.Ensure proper chain of custody by following established protocols.Examine the physical and mechanical characteristics of firearms and determine operability through test firing.Examine and classify fired cartridges, bullets, tools, toolmarks, and other evidence items. Conduct microscopic identification comparisons of firearm and toolmark evidence.Conduct serial number restorations using physical and chemical restoration techniques.Determine range (muzzle to object) estimates through examination of gunshot residues, physical damage characteristics, chemical processing, and test firing.Fracture match evidence items to determine if they are of common origin.Prepare reports stating scientific results or opinions and advise law enforcement, attorneys, and interested parties within the criminal justice system.Participate in formal and on-the-job training in all aspects of firearm and toolmark examination and identification.Follow all laboratory policies and standard operating procedures.Follow guiding principles of professional responsibility in the forensic workplace.Participate in the proficiency testing program for the disciplines in which the employee is competency tested. Operate and maintain equipment in the Firearm/Toolmark Unit such as stereoscopes, comparison microscopes, balances, micrometers, and calipers. Routinely testify as an expert witness in a court of law while maintaining composure under intense cross-examination.Assist Crime Laboratory Division in maintaining ANAB ISO 17025 accreditation.Maintain security and integrity of Crime Laboratory environment.Operate standard office equipment (i.e., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, adding machine, etc.).Perform job-related travel, as needed.Perform other related duties as assigned.In addition to the monthly salary, this position includes fully paid health insurance for employee and family (with a wellness rider included), the option to participate in employee-paid dental and vision for employee and family, participation in the state NDPERS defined contribution retirement plan as well as the option to participate in the 457 deferred compensation plan, the option to contribute to a medical spending account, as well as paid annual leave and sick leave.Employees in this position are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical, Physical, Biological, Forensic Science, or Engineering, from an accredited four-year college or university. To qualify as a Forensic Scientist II, a minimum of two years of work experience as a Forensic Scientist in a forensic laboratory is required.Demonstratable and documentable experience in the safe handling of firearms. Examples include formal safety training, military training, hunter's education, and/or participation in formal recognized firearm competition (IPSC, SASS, ATA, NSSA, DCM, SCTP, etc.)Demonstrate mechanical aptitude such as repair, design, modification, or repair of mechanical devices and/or tool use.Broad experience and/or knowledge in all aspects of firearms such as firearm manufacturing methods, gunsmithing, firearm maintenance, reloading, firearm collecting, ballistic studies, bullet casting, informal target shooting, etc.Must be able to evaluate and interpret observations, develop sound conclusions/identifications, maintain accurate records, and solve technical problems.Possesses skills necessary to be a successful Forensic Scientist.Ability, demonstrated in previous employment experience or described in personnel records, to establish and maintain effective, harmonious working relationships with clients, co-workers, and supervisors.Possess excellent oral and written communication skills.Excellent prioritization, time management, and organization skills.Ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality.A high level of integrity is required, as well as good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. Successful completion of the interview process, reference checks, and standard background and criminal record checks to determine knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform forensic scientist tasks.All applicants are required to complete a series of Firearms/Toolmarkings-related questions, which will be sent to candidates after the application is received and scored prior to the interview phase.

About Team ND

"Far and away the best prize life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." - Theodore RooseveltMore than 7,500 talented, hard-working people across sixty-three agencies have come together as Team North Dakota. At Team ND, we are driven to succeed through gratitude, humility, curiosity and courage. Our purpose is to empower people, improve lives, and inspire success. Join us in being legendary.Total Rewards: The State of North Dakota is committed to providing team members with a strong and competitive rewards package that support you, your health and your family.Considering a new position on Team ND? How does your current position stack up? Use our Total Rewards Calculator to estimate.

125 Application Procedures

Applicants are screened based on qualifications, successful completion of the interview process and a background and criminal investigation. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. The Office of Attorney General does not provide sponsorships.Application package must be received by 11:59 PM on the closing date listed on the opening.TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED ONLINE AT: www.nd.gov/careersDocuments to be submitted:ResumeCover letter with a summary that clearly explains how the applicant's work experience is related to the and minimum/preferred qualifications3 Professional ReferencesCollege Transcripts (copies or unofficial versions are acceptable for the initial application process but when the top candidate is given a conditional employment offer, they are required to present official transcripts)All applicants are required to complete a series of Firearms/Toolmarkings-related questions, which will be sent to candidates after the application is received and scored prior to the interview phase.Anyone needing assistance or accommodations during any part of the application or interview process please contact Ashley, Office of Attorney General: E-mail: aeisenbeis@nd.gov; phone: (701) 328-1256 or TTY: 1-800-366-6888.Learn more about Office of Attorney General at: https://attorneygeneral.nd.gov/Learn more about Employment Benefits at: https://www.nd.gov/omb/public/careers/team-nd-benefitsVisit North Dakota State government: http://www.nd.govTo learn more about living in North Dakota, visit https://findthegoodlife.com

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of North Dakota and this hiring agency do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), genetics, religion, age or disability in employment or the provisions of services and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act.As an employer, the State of North Dakota prohibits smoking in all places of state employment in accordance with N.D.C.C. Sect. 23-12-10.