Forensic Laboratory Technician 1 or 2

This is a full-time permanent position that will provide technical support and administrative analysis to the forensic scientists and external customers of the BCA Forensic Science Services.  

As a Forensic Laboratory Technician, this individual’s duties will include:

• Ensuring evidence submitted to the BCA FSS is properly received and recorded in the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), and returned to the submitting agency once analysis has been completed
• Assist and provide technical support and administrative analysis to the forensic scientist and external customers of the BCA FSS
• Prepare case material, relevant documents and reports for discovery pursuant to MN Rules of Criminal Procedure
• Assist the Data Practices Group in responding to data requests regarding laboratory records
• Train technicians in the various Evidence Intake and Processing responsibilities

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS – Management Analyst 1
1. One (1) year of professional laboratory experience
    OR
    Five (5) years of work experience in evidence intake, evidence processing, and/or data analysis in a law enforcement agency
    OR
    Bachelor’s degree* (with a minimum of 2 classes in the physical sciences and 1 Biology or Chemistry laboratory course)
2. Excellent oral and written communication skills
3. Ability to work with a diverse clientele

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS – Management Analyst 2
1. Two (2) years of professional laboratory experience
    OR
    Seven (7) years of work experience in evidence intake, evidence processing, and/or data analysis in a law enforcement agency
    OR
    Bachelor’s degree* (with a minimum of 2 classes in the physical sciences and 1 Biology or Chemistry laboratory course)
2. Excellent oral and written communication skills
3. Ability to work with a diverse clientele

*Applicants that do not currently work at a BCA lab must attach a copy of unofficial college transcripts to minimally qualify with a Bachelor's degree. Transcripts can be uploaded on the attachments page along with resumes. Please upload as a docx or PDF format. 

Preferred Qualifications

Both classifications:

1. A Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent
2. Demonstrated knowledge and use of laboratory quality assurance and evidence handling procedures
3. Experience in a forensic science laboratory gained through an internship or work experience; or work experience in a law enforcement agency
4. Experience with standard computer software (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets)

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting 50-pound items and frequently moving and transporting objects such as heavy tools and heavy file boxes. This job may require positioning self to move to a significant degree across rough terrain or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.

Additional Requirements

The prospective employee will undergo a background check for this position which will include the following:
1. A criminal history check 
2. Reference check 
3. Driver License history 
4. Fingerprints 
5. Psychological evaluation
6. Drug Screen

The BCA will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

Application Details

How to Apply 

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Madison Markgraf at madison.markgraf@state.mn.us. 

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Madison Markgraf at madison.markgraf@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept 

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,200 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits 

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include: 

• Paid vacation and sick leave 
• 12 paid holidays each year 
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans 
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children 
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care 
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.