November 5, 2024

State of Rhode Island

Providence

TOXICOLOGIST

Class Definition

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: To make chemical and toxicological examinations and tests of various substances and materials; to analyze saliva, urine and blood samples from racing animals; and to do related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Work is subject to general instructions from a superior supplemented by occasional consultation on more complex assignments; work is subject to review on completion for accuracy and professional adequacy.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Usually none.

Illustrative Examples of Work Performed

To do routine toxicological and chemical examinations and analyses and to assist superior in more complex work.

To analyze saliva, urine and blood samples from racing animals for stimulants and depressants.

As directed, to analyze autopsy specimens and other materials for the presence of volatile, organic and mineral poisons.

To attend autopsies and render professional assistance.

To make chemical analyses of evidence submitted in various types of criminal cases.

To perform serological and hematological tests and analyses, such as blood typing, identification and its source of origin.

To analyze various materials and substances to determine their content.

To keep records; to make reports to police or courts and as required, testifying in court.

To do related work as required.

Required Qualifications for Appointment

KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND CAPACITIES: A thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and laboratory techniques of chemistry and toxicology and the ability to apply such principles, practices and techniques in the making of routine toxicological, qualitative and quantitative chemical tests and analyses; a working knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques involved in chemical, microscopic and physical tests and analyses and in the examination of various substances and materials for the purpose of criminal identification and the ability to assist in the application of such principles, practices and techniques; and related capacities and abilities.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Education: Such as may have been gained through: graduation from a college of recognized standing with specialization in Chemistry; and
Experience: Such as may have been gained through: employment involving tests and analyses of human and animal tissues and body fluids for metals, alkaloids and organic poisons or drugs in a public health or medical laboratory.
Or, any combination of education and experience that shall be substantially equivalent to the above education and experience.

Supplemental Information

This position will be responsible for receiving evidence and maintaining chain of custody documentation within the Center for Forensic Sciences. This includes the Biology/DNA, Forensic Drug Chemistry and Forensic Toxicology laboratories. Other related duties may include quality control activities, administrative support in the center and testimony in judicial proceedings.

RIDOH’s mission is to prevent disease and protect and promote the health and safety of the people of Rhode Island. RIDOH’s strategic priorities focus on addressing the socioeconomic and environmental determinants of health, eliminating health disparities, promoting health equity, and ensuring access to quality health services for all Rhode Islanders, including the state’s vulnerable populations.