Forensic Scientist I, Forensic Scientist II, Forensic Scientist III - Controlled Substances Unit

Controlled Substances Unit Assignment:  A Forensic Scientist in the Controlled Substances Unit performs forensic examinations of physical evidence submitted to Forensic Services related to the identification of controlled substances and fire debris analysis.  Duties include:  performing qualitative analysis of suspected drug samples and trace evidence of fire debris.  Incumbents will perform macroscopic examinations, microscopic examinations, weight measurements, preliminary color tests, instrumental tests to include gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR/ATR), thin layer chromatography (TLC), and microcrystalline tests as well as interpret instrumental data.  Incumbents will provide support for the K9 units and the field drug testing program including training of police personnel, proficiency testing, maintenance of instrumentation and distributing the test kits.  This class is responsible for performing related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications Required. 

Forensic Scientist I:  Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's or advanced degree in Biology/Biochemistry, Chemistry, Forensic Science, or a closely related natural science.  Job related experience may substitute for the degree requirements on a year-for-year basis.  In addition, the following disciplines have specific minimum educational requirements:  Controlled Substances Unit Assignment:  Twenty (20) credit hours of college coursework in chemistry completed successfully.