The Department of Forensic Science has experienced record growth and is currently in construction of a new state of the art facility in Hanover County. The Central Laboratory, Director’s Office, Administrative Offices, and the Office of the Medical Examiner, currently located in Richmond, will move to the new facility when it is completed. The transition is anticipated for First Quarter 2026.
Ph.D. graduates or candidates with a projected award date no later than 3 months from the application submission date are encouraged to apply. See Trainee section below for details.
The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified Forensic Toxicologist to perform postmortem and human performance toxicology testing and provide testimony about the effects of alcohol and/or drugs on human performance and behavior in the Central Laboratory, located in Richmond, Virginia. The candidate will independently analyze human fluids and tissues in postmortem, DUI/DUID and other criminal cases using chemical and instrumental methodologies, critically evaluate data, prepare and issue Certificates of Analysis, and interpret and defend results in courts of law. Frequent travel, occasionally overnight, is required and employee will provide own transportation as required.
Minimum Qualifications:
Additional Considerations:
Trainee:
If a Forensic Toxicologist candidate does not meet all the minimum qualifications, a Forensic Toxicologist Trainee position may be offered to the most suitable candidate with a salary of $75,697. The selected candidate will be expected to successfully complete a Forensic Toxicologist Trainee training program. Upon successful completion of Forensic Toxicologist training program, the trainee’s salary will be established within the salary range for a qualified Forensic Toxicologist. The training will last approximately 18 months, dependent upon the qualifications of the selected candidate. The Trainee must meet the degree requirements stated in the minimum qualifications.
A successful Forensic Toxicologist Trainee will have competencies that include attention to detail, critical thinking, analytical, deductive reasoning, problem solving, observation, communication, teamwork and time management skills.
Trainee Minimum Qualifications:
Trainee Additional Considerations:
Probationary Period:
This position requires an 18-month probationary period. If you are a current Commonwealth of Virginia employee, this position requires a new probationary period be served.
Background Investigation:
Selected candidate(s) must successfully pass a background investigation to include a fingerprint-based criminal history check. Selected candidate(s) must provide a DNA sample via a buccal swab (saliva sample) and successfully pass a drug test. Reference checks will be conducted to include contact with current/previous supervisors.
Employment Eligibility Verification:
DFS will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
Applicants must apply electronically using the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Career’s Website by April 4, 2025. PageUp can be accessed using the link: https://www.jobs.virginia.gov/home. Contact Amanda Collum at (804) 588-4163 for assistance.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Posted 03/21/2024