DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Location: Statewide, Arizona

Salary:  $56,683.33

To apply, you must go to the DPS website.  Click here and follow the instructions to submit your on-line application.

The Associate Forensic Scientist receives extensive training in relevant forensic science areas in order to become proficient in crime laboratory procedures. Under direct supervision, utilizes chemical, microscopic, chromatographic and comparative techniques and instrumentation to examine, identify and evaluate physical evidence which may include: controlled dangerous substances; blood, urine and other biological specimens; firearms; questioned documents; latent prints; trace evidence; and other items of evidentiary value. Prepares technical reports; provides expert testimony in court; and performs related tasks as required. Receives supervision from a Supervising Forensic Scientist. This is a competitive classification.

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course of study in biology, chemistry, or closely related physical or natural sciences with either a minimum of thirty (30) semester hours (or equivalent quarter hours) in chemistry or a minimum of twenty (20) semester hours in chemistry with completed coursework in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. 

(30 semester credit hours is equivalent to 45 quarter credit hours.)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must provide a DNA sample for the staff database.
 
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Processes evidence that may transmit infectious disease (e.g., AIDS, Hepatitis B), is corrosive, carcinogenic, or explosive.
May be exposed to fumes or dust, bodily fluids, toxic or caustic chemicals; and occasionally, outdoor weather conditions.
May be required to move items up to twenty (20) pounds.
May be required to respond to crime scenes and court appearances as needed.

Must successfully complete the examination process.

Progression to the next classification in the Forensic Scientist series requires an overall performance rating of at least "Standard" in the last 12 months.

Applicants must complete an examination process. A polygraph and background investigation are required for successful applicants. DPS supports a drug-free work environment through pre-employment drug testing.
If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver’s License Requirements. All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to benefit-eligible employees in cooperation with the State of Arizona.
• Accrued vacation pay and sick days
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Deferred compensation plan
• Top-ranked retirement plans
• Affordable medical, dental, vision, life, and short & long-term disability insurance plans
• Employee Assistance, Peer and Family Support Programs
• Bus Cards (Subsidized partially by the State)
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program).

For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

State employees are required to participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS), the State sponsored retirement contribution plan and the Long-Term Disability (LTD) program after 27-week waiting period. The ASRS defined benefit plan provides for life-long income upon retirement. You will also have the option to participate in a voluntary deferred compensation program to take advantage of tax-deferred retirement investments. 

On, or shortly after, your first day of work you will be provided with additional information about the available insurance plans, enrollment instructions, submission deadlines and effective dates.

The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (602) 223-2290. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.