Forensic Technologist

Dynacare; London; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading laboratory services company is seeking a Forensic Technologist in London, Ontario. The role involves performing extraction and analysis in a fast-paced forensic toxicology lab environment. Responsibilities include operating laboratory equipment, ensuring quality control, and pulling data from tests. Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree and have at least 2 years of relevant experience, preferably in Toxicology. This opportunity offers a professional setting with duties requiring attention to detail and the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues.

Qualifications

• 2 years of relevant experience required.
• Experience working in Toxicology considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Perform extractions of the drugs using a variety of chemicals.
• Pull data from GC/MS and/or LC/MS/MS, Headspace GC, and check for flagged abnormalities.
• Operate equipment, ensuring sample ID and preparation are correct.

Skills

Ability to work unsupervised

Ability to perform under pressure

Ability to troubleshoot technical issues

Proficiency in MS-Office Suite

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in relevant fields

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Forensic Technologist

Stratum: S1

Function: Operations

Department: Toxicology-PRIVATE

Date Created: July 8, 2014

Date Modified: May 17, 2022

Reports To: Manager, Toxicology

JOB SUMMARY

High­-level description of the purpose of the job. Responsible for performing extraction and/or data pulling of various laboratory tests following standard operating procedures. Ensure quality control and performance checks and standards are run as required. Operates and maintains laboratory equipment as appropriate. Participates in all quality assurance programs and ensures company and external regulatory bodies’ policies are observed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Perform extractions of the drugs using a variety of chemicals.
• Pull data from GC/MS and/or LC/MS/MS, Headspace GC, and check for flagged abnormalities, run repeat or additional testing according and established guidelines.
• Operate equipment, monitoring operating, reviewing results before handing the batches to the Certifying Scientist.
• Ensure sample ID and preparation are correct before commencing testing.
• Ensure chain of custody and the accuracy of documents are maintained.
• Responsible to preserve and safeguard all confidential information.
• As directed, prepare for regular accreditation inspections; communicate and cooperate with inspectors.
• Provide testimony in legal procedures if required.
• Perform qualitative and quantitative analysis based on application and outcome of specified criteria.
• Ensure all inquiries and problems are handled in a courteous and professional manner.
• Ensure an adequate amount of supplies are on hand and that validated standards and quality controls to be used are in date order.
• Require entry of results into company’s databases.
• Required to accurately pipette samples, adding specified standards and controls according to set test methods.
• Set up and adjust laboratory equipment by calibration of instrument and performing quality control according to established guidelines.
• Provide routine basic care, perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Assist in validation/reverification plans authorized by the RP or designate.
• Observe, report and document malfunctions in equipment and maintain required log-books for routine equipment maintenance.
• Responsible to follow all relevant pre and/or post analytical QA protocols as described in the company QA manual.

TIME ALLOCATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Forensic testing (80%)
• Sample ID and preparation (5%)
• Equipment operation and maintenance (5%)
• Work area maintenance (5%)
• Inspections (1%)

DISCLAIMER

This job description represents only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks and duties. Other duties, as assigned, may become part of the job.

KNOWLEDGE, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in relevant fields.
• 2 years of relevant experience required.
• Experience working in Toxicology considered an asset.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Technical Skills

• Ability to work unsupervised.
• Ability to perform under pressure, multi‑task while ensuring the integrity of the test results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and provide recommendations for resolution.
• Proficiency in MS‑Office Word, Excel, and Outlook at an intermediate level.

Social Process Skills

• Demonstrated high level of interpersonal skills required to succeed in a collaborative working environment.
• Demonstrated ability to self‑manage and prioritize in a results‑driven environment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Forensic Toxicology Laboratory environment.
• Perform duties in stationary standing/sitting positions with repetitive fine motor movement of hands.
• High visual requirements.
• Ability to lift up to 45 lbs.
• Exposure to biohazard materials, fumes, chemicals, and noise.
• Shift work required.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

• Preserve and safeguard all confidential employee information during the course of employment with Dynacare.
• Approximately 6 months of time required to learn all aspects of the job.

SIGNATURES

Employee Name: ____________

Signature: ____________ Date: ____________

Immediate Manager Name: ____________ Signature: ____________ Date: ____________

Human Resources Name: ____________ Signature: ____________ Date: ____________

Laboratory/Medical Director Name: ____________ Signature: ____________ Date: ____________