Forensic Laboratory Specialist VI - Chemistry Research - Division of Technical Services - GF653

FORENSIC LABORATORY SPECIALIST VI

Division of Technical Services

Position # GF653

Salary:  $56,052

Location: Richmond, VA

This is an exciting opportunity to work with state-of-the-art instrumentation to assist in method development and validation in Forensic Toxicology.

This is a grant funded position and is funded through September 1, 2027.

The Department of Forensic Science is seeking a qualified applicant to work full-time in the Division of Technical Services Chemistry Research Section. Duties include performing method development and validation experiments under the direction of the Chemistry Research Section Supervisor for the Toxicology discipline. The employee will also perform routine laboratory housekeeping duties, to include ordering and maintaining supply inventories, routine instrument maintenance, and evaluation of analytical data.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Experience in a scientific laboratory using basic laboratory equipment, techniques, and laboratory safety procedures
• Experience in the use of gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, or mass spectrometry
• Experience performing experiments/extractions using laboratory chemicals, biological specimens, or reagents which can include but is not limited to clinical chemistry, environmental analysis, forensic drug/toxicology testing, quality control testing, or university research laboratories
• Ability to accurately record and maintain records, follow written protocols and oral instructions, establish work priorities, and independently perform routine duties
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Must be eligible to possess a valid driver’s license or have other means of reliable transportation

Additional Considerations:  

• Employment experience in an accredited forensic science laboratory or a CLIA-certified clinical testing laboratory
• Experience performing extraction techniques used in forensic toxicology including but not limited to solid phase extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, and protein precipitation
• Working experience with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, time-of-flight mass spectrometry, or headspace gas chromatography flame ionization detection
• Working experience with automated liquid handling instrumentation for the extraction of biological matrices in toxicology  
• Experience with method development and validation of analytical instrumentation
• Experience with computers in a laboratory environment including proficiency with Microsoft Excel