Job Opportunities in United States

The successful applicant will demonstrate and maintain proficiency in forensic drug toxicology. May also demonstrate and maintain proficiency in forensic chemical testing such as controlled substance identification, ethanol quantitation, and/or breath alcohol calibration. A Forensic Scientist 3 will independently perform complex casework, instrument troubleshooting, and review the work of other Forensic Scientists. This position may participate in the development and validation of new methods including implementation of new technologies, training other Forensic Scientists and participation in special projects. We provide scientific support to the criminal justice system to help create a safer Alaska. All of our work is justifiable and transparent. We strive to be understandable or provide guidance where not understood. We work to standardized procedures within a robust quality assurance system. We are accountable to our stakeholders and the State of Alaska. We work diligently, reliably, and with the utmost integrity. This position will contribute to the mission of the laboratory by performing forensic casework, outreach and training to support the criminal justice system and the people of Alaska. The Forensic staff are a group of high-level thinkers engaged in continual innovative advancement aimed to improve the services provided to the Alaskan justice system. We value an inclusive culture of transparency and freedom to express all ideas, continuous growth and wellness. In addition to the attributes described above, the successful candidate will demonstrate mastery of forensic drug toxicology testing. The candidate will utilize the full range of relevant techniques to analyze complex cases. Further desired skills include the willingness to ask for and provide guidance to other Scientists as well as time management through communication and prioritization. Experience and/or working knowledge about ISO 17025:2017 and ANAB AR 3125 accreditation standards is desired. A successful candidate will be ethically responsible, display independence, and continually pursue knowledge.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college in natural science, physical science, forensic sciences, criminalistics, or a closely related field
And
The successful completion of the State of Alaska Forensic Scientist 2 flexible staffing plan for the chemistry discipline
And.
Two years of experience as a Forensic Scientist 2 with the State of Alaska or the equivalent with another employer.

The experience and flex plan training may be earned concurrently.

Substitution:
One year of additional Forensic Scientist 2 experience in the chemistry discipline will substitute for the flex plan training.

Special Note:
Employees will be expected to successfully pass annual proficiency/competency tests.

Appointments to positions in the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory are subject to background requirements per ASCLD/LAB and the Department of Public Safety. A criminal background investigation, including fingerprinting, is required.

Additional Required Information

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT POSITION

• 
  A valid Alaska Driver's license is required.
  
• Appointments to positions at the Alaska Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory are subject to background requirements per the Department of Public Safety. A criminal background investigation, including fingerprinting, is required.
  
• Court testimony travel required.
  

BACKGROUND CHECK
EDUCATION

Contact Information

The following information describes typical benefits available to employees of the State of Alaska. Actual benefits received may differ by bargaining unit or branch of government, position type, or be prorated for other than full time work.

For a quick breakdown of the insurance, health, and retirement benefits available for State Employees you can view an orientation video from Division of Retirement and Benefits. (Please note this video is specifically designed for new State Employees.)

Insurance Benefits

• Health insurance, which includes employer contributions toward medical/vision/dental
  • The following employee groups are under Alaska Care Benefits administered by the State: See https://drb.alaska.gov/help/plans.html for additional information.
    • AVTEC
    • Confidential
    • Correctional Officers
    • Marine Engineers
    • Mt. Edgecumbe Teachers
    • Supervisory
    • Unlicensed Vessel Personnel/Inland Boatman's Union
    • Exempt employees (not covered by collective bargaining)
  • The following employee groups are covered by Union health trusts. Contact the appropriate Union for additional information.
    • General Government
    • Labor, Trades and Crafts
    • Public Safety Employees Association
    • Masters, Mates & Pilots
• Employer paid Basic Life insurance with additional coverage available (amount depends on Bargaining Unit)

• Group-based insurance premiums for
  • Term life (employee, spouse or qualified same sex partner, and dependents)
  • Long-term and short-term disability
  • Accidental Death and Dismemberment
  • Long-term care (self and eligible family members)
  • Supplemental Survivor Benefits
• Employee-funded flexible spending accounts for tax savings on eligible health care or dependent care expenses

Retirement Benefits

• Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Teachers' Retirement System (TRS)
• Matching employer contribution into a defined contribution program (new employees)
• Employer contribution into a defined benefit or defined contribution program (current employees)
• Contributions to the Alaska Supplemental Annuity Plan in lieu of contributions to Social Security
• Option to enroll in the Alaska Deferred Compensation Program
• Note: The Defined Contribution Plan, Supplemental Annuity Plan and Deferred Compensation Program offer a variety of investment options

Paid Leave & Other Benefits

• Personal leave with an accrual rate increase based on time served
• Twelve (12) paid holidays a year