to top

Forensic Scientist - Firearms and Toolmark Examiner

South Dakota State Government

Pierre, SD

Posted/Updated: 25 days ago

Job Description
Job ID: 26760
Agency: Office of Attorney General / Division of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Laboratory
Location: Pierre
Salary: $51,786.72 - $70,912.97 DOQ
Pay Grade: GSH to GSK
Closing Date: 5.6.24

This is a full-time position with the Office of the Attorney General. For more information on the Office of the Attorney General, please visit http://atg.sd.gov .

The Forensic Scientist evaluates, examines, and identifies physical evidence from and at crime scenes utilizing established and standardized procedures and techniques; serves as a technical authority in the analysis of firearms and tool-mark evidence from criminal investigations: will utilize chemical and microscopic techniques and instrumentation which may include forensic photography, lasers, x-ray cameras, and computer networking including NIBIN; document findings and prepare technical written reports of laboratory examinations and discuss results with law enforcement officers and attorneys; provides expert testimony in various courts throughout the state of South Dakota; keeps abreast of scientific advancements in forensic fields by reading technical journals and attending conferences, seminars, and training sessions; and shares general laboratory duties with other Forensic Scientists, such as laboratory accreditation, maintaining laboratory safety, on-call responsibilities and training

The incumbent is exposed to the usual forensic laboratory biological hazards, chemicals, and instruments.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
A Bachelor's and/or Master's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science or related field. Candidate must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid South Dakota driver's license. The selected candidate may be required to successfully complete out of state training. Must pass a comprehensive background investigation. This is a salaried position and is exempt from the Career Services Act.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of:
  • Forensic Science;
  • evidence collection, packaging and preservation;
  • evidence examination and the types of tests commonly used in Latent Print Examinations;
  • laboratory safety.

Skill to:
Utilize laboratory equipment and computers, including photography software and cameras

Ability to:
  • pass a visual acuity test administered by the South Dakota Forensic Lab;
  • deal tactfully with others;
  • communication effectively both orally and in writing;
  • testify in court regarding test results and conclusions.

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act.

This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

Successful applicant(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation. An arrest/conviction record will not necessarily bar employment. Successful applicant(s) will undergo an abuse and neglect screening. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of a drug screening.

NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers employer paid health insurance plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/ . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

Must apply online: https://sodakprod-lm01.cloud.infor.com:1443/lmghr/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=PGC
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"
South Dakota State Government
500 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501