Job Description

Position Description

Mission

The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner with uncompromised integrity.

Vision

• To provide consistent quality death investigation and laboratory analysis for the benefit of the entire community.

• To create a technological strongpoint for legal agencies to facilitate justice in criminal and civil proceedings.

• To establish an academic environment for training in the field of Forensic Science.

Brief Drug Chemistry Forensic Chemist 1 Overview:

The Drug Chemistry Forensic Chemist 1 is an entry-level position that receives inventories processes and analyzes forensic drug evidence to identify controlled and non-controlled substances while maintaining accreditation standards and is expected to provide expert testimony in court.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Evidence Analysis and Testimony:

  • Receives inventories and processes forensic evidence to identify controlled and non-controlled substances

  • Prepares written reports that support the analytical findings

  • Testifies in court explaining analytical procedures performed

• Instrument Maintenance Troubleshooting and Operation:

  • Performs and documents routine maintenance troubleshooting and minor repair of associated instrumentation

  • Operates GC-FID GC-MS UV-Vis FTIR DART-TOF and GC-IRD instrumentation

• Laboratory Support:

  • Prepares laboratory reagents and controls and maintains supplies in accordance with laboratory procedures

    • Performs routine laboratory upkeep duties such as cleaning glassware discarding biohazard trash organizing laboratory work and storage areas and maintaining laboratory cleanliness

  • Develops and validates new test methods and instrumentation

  • Performs root cause analysis and documentation of corrective and preventative actions

  • Provides training to staff according to established protocols

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

you need special services or accommodations please call or email .

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and even when considered may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements

Education:

• Bachelors Degree in Forensic Science Chemistry or a related natural science

• Must meet the Specific Coursework Requirements for Seized Drugs Analyst outlined in the Texas Administrative Code Title 37 Part 15 Chapter 651 Subchapter C Rule 651.207

Certifications / Licenses Requirements:

• American Board of Criminalistics (ABC) certification in Drug Analysis required within 1 year of eligibility to sit for the exam

• Licensure by the Texas Forensic Science Commission required within 1 year of employment

• Maintain a valid Texas Drivers License and maintain ability to safely operate a motor vehicle

Experience:

• One (1) year experience in a forensic laboratory or equivalent

Knowledge Skills & Abilities:

• Familiarity with accreditation standards and requirements for forensic laboratories

• Strong written and oral communication skills with effective organization and time management skills

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision prioritizing and handling multiple tasks simultaneously

• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office

Additional Requirements:

• Must pass criminal background check and drug / alcohol screening (prior to and randomly during employment)

• As a public servant this employee is expected to adequately prepare for court testimony in accordance with Department policies and procedures. Subpoenas and court orders related to cases worked by the employee shall be followed even post-employment. The duty to adequately communicate with attorneys and prepare for testimony which includes a review of the applicable case records is still expected post-employment

NOTE : Qualifying education experience knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. See Resume will not be accepted for qualifications.

Preferences

Education:

• Masters Degree or PhD in Forensic Science Chemistry or a related natural science

Experience:

• Membership in a professional forensic organization such as American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) or Southwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (SWAFS)

General Information

Work Location:

Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences

1861 Old Spanish Trail

Houston TX 77054

Work Schedule:

• Full time 40 hours per week Monday Friday

• This is an In-Office position

• Weekends and evening shifts may be necessary

• Must be available to work during severe weather events or other emergencies if needed

Work Environment:

• Office / laboratory setting

Potential Exposures:

• Possible exposure to dangerous chemicals

• May come in contact with blood and/or blood borne pathogens

Physical Demands:

• Requires physical strength to lift up to 50 pounds in the routine performance of duties

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.

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