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Posted : Friday, January 05, 2024 11:21 AM
DNA Analyst - (24140448)
Division Overview:
The Forensic Science Division Laboratory is a multi-disciplined service facility that supports the Department of Justice’s mission to pursue activities and programs that seek to ensure and promote the public interest, safety, and well-being.
The activities and programs for which FSD is responsible include managing a statewide system of death investigations and providing scientific analyses of specimens/evidence submitted by law enforcement officials, coroners and state agencies.
The mission of the Montana Forensic Science Division is to use operationally efficient and financially responsible practices as the laboratory provides accurate, objective and timely forensic analyses to the criminal justice community.
The Division is composed of the following sections: Toxicology/Breath Testing, Biology, Chemistry/Trace, Firearms/Tool Marks, Latent Print/Impression Evidence, and the State Medical Examiner’s Office.
Missoula is a college town of about 60,000 individuals.
The surrounding area offers the gamut of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Missoula is regarded as an outstanding place to live (see links below) and is within a few hours’ drive of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.
About Missoula 1, About Missoula 2, About Missoula 3 Job Overview: As a DNA Analyst, the incumbent will be working in the Biology section of the laboratory which receives items of evidence collected at the scene of crimes such as homicides, rapes, suicides, assaults and burglaries.
These items typically have suspected biological fluid staining.
The Forensic Biologist uses state of the art methods to identify biological staining, develop DNA profiles from evidentiary samples, interpret data, and publish reports on the results of the analyses performed.
Successful applicants will be tasked with duties that pair with their respective knowledge, skills, and abilities.
*Pay is based upon placement within the FSD Career Ladder.
Physical and Environmental Demands: Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs.
in short intervals.
Must be willing to work with materials considered to be biological hazards.
Create and maintain a safe/secure working environment by adhering to DOJ safety, security, and health requirements.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge: Extensive knowledge of theory, practice and use of analytical equipment; biochemical, physical, chemical, and analytical methodologies used in forensic biology; laboratory safety practices including the handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals and potentially infectious biological samples.
Extensive knowledge of policies, procedures, rules, guidelines and regulations governing an accredited forensic biology laboratory.
Extensive knowledge of computer hardware and software used in a forensic biology laboratory.
Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance guidelines and protocols as they pertain to the forensic biology.
Thorough knowledge of evidence handling and the chain of custody procedures of biological and physical evidence; systematic approaches to the analysis of evidence; case law relating to forensic biology.
Knowledge of criminal law and courtroom procedure; human anatomy, physiology; techniques of courtroom presentation; current trends in forensic science research in general.
Knowledge of criminal investigation techniques.
Skills: Skill in using stereoscopic and bright field compound microscopes, digital imaging/photographic equipment, forensic alternative light source, micro-pipettors, microbalance, robotic instrumentation and personal computers.
Skill in the methodologies used for preparation of reagents and their respective quality control measures within a forensic laboratory.
Abilities: Ability to manage time effectively and be self-motivating; to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public; to follow written and oral instructions; to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to write clear, concise, accurate and thorough reports, to organize case workload on a daily basis; to coordinate responsibilities with colleagues and co-workers; to organize the work place and analytical approach, both for safety, efficiency and maximum use of available sample; to maintain electronic equipment; to adapt to changing time schedules and working conditions and deal with the associated stress of heavy workloads and varying priorities.
Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience): The above knowledge, skills and abilities are typically acquired by a Bachelor of Science degree or its equivalent degree in a biological, chemical, or natural science and job-related laboratory experience.
Coursework (graduate or undergraduate level) will have been successfully completed covering the subject areas of biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology (molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology) as well as course work in statistics and/or population genetics as required by FBI Quality Assurance Standards.
The required subject areas must consist of nine or more cumulative semester or equivalent hours.
Preferred Qualifications: At least 2 years of experience working within an accredited forensic laboratory with at least 1 year experience performing DNA casework analysis, Y-STR analytical experience, and use of STRmix probabilistic genotyping software.
Additionally, experience with the use Laboratory Information Management software; specifically, Justice Trax LIMS plus.
Special Instructions: Please include the following REQUIRED documents to be considered for this position: Resume.
Cover Letter - please include your forensic laboratory experience in your cover letter.
Academic Transcripts.
Questionnaire - complete and attach as additional document (see below).
The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicant's qualification may include, but are not limited to, an evaluation of the résumé, a structured interview, performance test, academic transcripts, reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.
Additional materials, references or information submitted by the applicant, but not requested, will not be considered.
Successful applicant(s) will be subject to: Criminal History Fingerprint Check Driving History Drug Testing REAL ID Compliant Credential Required and/or Passport: State employees are required to present legally binding photo identification at the time of hire.
Generally, this is a valid driver license, U.
S.
Passport or Employment Authorization ID (Form I-766).
All DOJ positions require a valid REAL ID or U.
S.
Passport within 60 days of hire, effective May 3, 2025.
For further information go to https://mtrealid.
gov or https://www.
dhs.
gov/real-id-frequently-asked-questions.
HOW TO APPLY: To be considered for this position, you must attach a résumé, cover letter, academic transcripts, and questionnaire at the time of application.
Tip: When attaching your resume, you must mark the attachment as a “Relevant File”.
Your Résumé: Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position.
Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.
Your Cover Letter: Please include your forensic laboratory experience.
A complete online state application is not required.
To initiate an application, attach the required documents to be considered for this position.
Failure to attach all required documents will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.
Only electronic applications will be accepted.
Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.
All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date.
Please submit preference documentation to Terri Christianson at Terese.
Christianson@mt.
gov via File Transfer Service.
To request an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.
Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits.
Medical, dental and vision coverage Retirement plans Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts Employee Assistance Program State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
This Organization Participates in E-Verify.
Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.
Questionnaire: Do you have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with coursework in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, statistics and population genetics, or other subjects that provide an advanced knowledge of forensic DNA analysis? Yes No Do you have three or more years of full-time professional experience in a laboratory performing STR forensic DNA testing for the identification and evaluation of biological evidence in criminal matters? Yes No Does your experience include successful analysis of a range of samples typically encountered in forensic casework? Yes No Do you have a graduate degree in related field? Yes No Do you have knowledge of necessary DNA discipline specific requirements for ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and NDIS participation requirements? Yes No Do you have experience validating serological testing methods, DNA instrumentation, software, extraction protocols, CODIS software, STRMix, or other ProbGen software? Yes No Do you have experience with probabilistic genotyping software? Yes No Have you been trained in RMP and CPI/CPE statistical calculations? Yes No Have you been trained in likelihood ratios? Yes No Do you have experience using JusticeTrax LIMS during casework? Yes No Do you have experience with Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)? Yes No Do you have experience with YSTRs? Yes No By answering yes to this question, I acknowledge and understand that the Montana Forensic Science Division has a zero-tolerance drug policy and performs random drug testing of its employees.
Yes No Applicant Pool Statement: If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.
Training Assignment: This agency may use a training assignment.
Employees in training assignments may be paid below the base pay established by the agency pay rules.
Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.
Salary: $ 28.
55 - 38.
93 Hourly Telework Eligibility: Not Telework Eligible Benefits Package Eligibility: Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan Number of Openings: 1 Employee Status: Regular Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time Primary Location: Missoula Agency: Department of Justice Union: 000 - None Posting Date: Feb 7, 2024, 11:42:53 AM Closing Date (based on your computer's timezone): Feb 26, 2024, 12:59:00 AM Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume Contact Name: Bri Smith | Contact Email: DOJCSDHR@mt.
gov | Contact Phone: 406-444-5528
The activities and programs for which FSD is responsible include managing a statewide system of death investigations and providing scientific analyses of specimens/evidence submitted by law enforcement officials, coroners and state agencies.
The mission of the Montana Forensic Science Division is to use operationally efficient and financially responsible practices as the laboratory provides accurate, objective and timely forensic analyses to the criminal justice community.
The Division is composed of the following sections: Toxicology/Breath Testing, Biology, Chemistry/Trace, Firearms/Tool Marks, Latent Print/Impression Evidence, and the State Medical Examiner’s Office.
Missoula is a college town of about 60,000 individuals.
The surrounding area offers the gamut of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Missoula is regarded as an outstanding place to live (see links below) and is within a few hours’ drive of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.
About Missoula 1, About Missoula 2, About Missoula 3 Job Overview: As a DNA Analyst, the incumbent will be working in the Biology section of the laboratory which receives items of evidence collected at the scene of crimes such as homicides, rapes, suicides, assaults and burglaries.
These items typically have suspected biological fluid staining.
The Forensic Biologist uses state of the art methods to identify biological staining, develop DNA profiles from evidentiary samples, interpret data, and publish reports on the results of the analyses performed.
Successful applicants will be tasked with duties that pair with their respective knowledge, skills, and abilities.
*Pay is based upon placement within the FSD Career Ladder.
Physical and Environmental Demands: Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs.
in short intervals.
Must be willing to work with materials considered to be biological hazards.
Create and maintain a safe/secure working environment by adhering to DOJ safety, security, and health requirements.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge: Extensive knowledge of theory, practice and use of analytical equipment; biochemical, physical, chemical, and analytical methodologies used in forensic biology; laboratory safety practices including the handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals and potentially infectious biological samples.
Extensive knowledge of policies, procedures, rules, guidelines and regulations governing an accredited forensic biology laboratory.
Extensive knowledge of computer hardware and software used in a forensic biology laboratory.
Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance guidelines and protocols as they pertain to the forensic biology.
Thorough knowledge of evidence handling and the chain of custody procedures of biological and physical evidence; systematic approaches to the analysis of evidence; case law relating to forensic biology.
Knowledge of criminal law and courtroom procedure; human anatomy, physiology; techniques of courtroom presentation; current trends in forensic science research in general.
Knowledge of criminal investigation techniques.
Skills: Skill in using stereoscopic and bright field compound microscopes, digital imaging/photographic equipment, forensic alternative light source, micro-pipettors, microbalance, robotic instrumentation and personal computers.
Skill in the methodologies used for preparation of reagents and their respective quality control measures within a forensic laboratory.
Abilities: Ability to manage time effectively and be self-motivating; to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public; to follow written and oral instructions; to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to write clear, concise, accurate and thorough reports, to organize case workload on a daily basis; to coordinate responsibilities with colleagues and co-workers; to organize the work place and analytical approach, both for safety, efficiency and maximum use of available sample; to maintain electronic equipment; to adapt to changing time schedules and working conditions and deal with the associated stress of heavy workloads and varying priorities.
Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience): The above knowledge, skills and abilities are typically acquired by a Bachelor of Science degree or its equivalent degree in a biological, chemical, or natural science and job-related laboratory experience.
Coursework (graduate or undergraduate level) will have been successfully completed covering the subject areas of biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology (molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology) as well as course work in statistics and/or population genetics as required by FBI Quality Assurance Standards.
The required subject areas must consist of nine or more cumulative semester or equivalent hours.
Preferred Qualifications: At least 2 years of experience working within an accredited forensic laboratory with at least 1 year experience performing DNA casework analysis, Y-STR analytical experience, and use of STRmix probabilistic genotyping software.
Additionally, experience with the use Laboratory Information Management software; specifically, Justice Trax LIMS plus.
Special Instructions: Please include the following REQUIRED documents to be considered for this position: Resume.
Cover Letter - please include your forensic laboratory experience in your cover letter.
Academic Transcripts.
Questionnaire - complete and attach as additional document (see below).
The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicant's qualification may include, but are not limited to, an evaluation of the résumé, a structured interview, performance test, academic transcripts, reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.
Additional materials, references or information submitted by the applicant, but not requested, will not be considered.
Successful applicant(s) will be subject to: Criminal History Fingerprint Check Driving History Drug Testing REAL ID Compliant Credential Required and/or Passport: State employees are required to present legally binding photo identification at the time of hire.
Generally, this is a valid driver license, U.
S.
Passport or Employment Authorization ID (Form I-766).
All DOJ positions require a valid REAL ID or U.
S.
Passport within 60 days of hire, effective May 3, 2025.
For further information go to https://mtrealid.
gov or https://www.
dhs.
gov/real-id-frequently-asked-questions.
HOW TO APPLY: To be considered for this position, you must attach a résumé, cover letter, academic transcripts, and questionnaire at the time of application.
Tip: When attaching your resume, you must mark the attachment as a “Relevant File”.
Your Résumé: Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position.
Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.
Your Cover Letter: Please include your forensic laboratory experience.
A complete online state application is not required.
To initiate an application, attach the required documents to be considered for this position.
Failure to attach all required documents will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.
Only electronic applications will be accepted.
Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.
All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date.
Please submit preference documentation to Terri Christianson at Terese.
Christianson@mt.
gov via File Transfer Service.
To request an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.
Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits.
Medical, dental and vision coverage Retirement plans Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts Employee Assistance Program State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
This Organization Participates in E-Verify.
Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.
Questionnaire: Do you have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university with coursework in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, statistics and population genetics, or other subjects that provide an advanced knowledge of forensic DNA analysis? Yes No Do you have three or more years of full-time professional experience in a laboratory performing STR forensic DNA testing for the identification and evaluation of biological evidence in criminal matters? Yes No Does your experience include successful analysis of a range of samples typically encountered in forensic casework? Yes No Do you have a graduate degree in related field? Yes No Do you have knowledge of necessary DNA discipline specific requirements for ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and NDIS participation requirements? Yes No Do you have experience validating serological testing methods, DNA instrumentation, software, extraction protocols, CODIS software, STRMix, or other ProbGen software? Yes No Do you have experience with probabilistic genotyping software? Yes No Have you been trained in RMP and CPI/CPE statistical calculations? Yes No Have you been trained in likelihood ratios? Yes No Do you have experience using JusticeTrax LIMS during casework? Yes No Do you have experience with Short Tandem Repeats (STRs)? Yes No Do you have experience with YSTRs? Yes No By answering yes to this question, I acknowledge and understand that the Montana Forensic Science Division has a zero-tolerance drug policy and performs random drug testing of its employees.
Yes No Applicant Pool Statement: If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.
Training Assignment: This agency may use a training assignment.
Employees in training assignments may be paid below the base pay established by the agency pay rules.
Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.
Salary: $ 28.
55 - 38.
93 Hourly Telework Eligibility: Not Telework Eligible Benefits Package Eligibility: Health Insurance, Paid Leave & Holidays, Retirement Plan Number of Openings: 1 Employee Status: Regular Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time Primary Location: Missoula Agency: Department of Justice Union: 000 - None Posting Date: Feb 7, 2024, 11:42:53 AM Closing Date (based on your computer's timezone): Feb 26, 2024, 12:59:00 AM Required Application Materials: Cover Letter, Resume Contact Name: Bri Smith | Contact Email: DOJCSDHR@mt.
gov | Contact Phone: 406-444-5528
• Phone : (406) 444-5528
• Location : Missoula, MT
• Post ID: 9077203477
