Entry-Level Forensic Chemist, Chemical Analysis

City-and-County-of-SAN-Francisc; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The City and County of San Francisco is seeking a Criminalist I in Chemical Analysis for the San Francisco Police Department. This full-time position requires a bachelor’s degree in criminalistics or a physical science and a valid driver’s license.

The incumbent will perform foundational to advanced chemical analyses and may testify as an expert witness in court. Responsibilities include evidence handling, laboratory maintenance, quality control, safety, and accurate reporting of results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in criminalistics, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or closely related physical science field.
• Course work must include 8 semester units of chemistry with lab and 8 units of organic chemistry with lab.
• Verification requires transcript submission.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• Desirable qualifications may be considered at the end of the selection process when candidates are referred for hiring.

Responsibilities

• Retrieves evidence from crime scenes, property control, or medical examiner's office following chain of custody procedures.
• Preserves evidence by inventorying, documenting, and safekeeping.
• Adheres to quality control procedures to ensure proper functioning of laboratory equipment and reagents; trains lab staff and officers.
• Follows safety standards in preparation, storage and disposal of chemicals.
• Documents case observations and interpretations through detailed notes, photographs, sketches, charts, etc.
• Presents technical reports on interpretation of case examinations.
• Operates and maintains highly technical laboratory instruments.
• Presents court testimony as an expert witness.
• Identifies controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, pharmaceuticals.
• Assists in breath alcohol analysis and instrumental support.
• Participates in proficiency testing to comply with national quality standards.

Skills

Forensic chemistry

Chromatography

Spectrophotometry

Documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in criminalistics/chemistry/biochemistry/molecular biology or closely related physical science

Job description

The City and County of San Francisco is seeking a Criminalist I in Chemical Analysis for the San Francisco Police Department. This full-time position requires a bachelor’s degree in criminalistics or a physical science and a valid driver’s license.

The incumbent will perform foundational to advanced chemical analyses and may testify as an expert witness in court. Responsibilities include evidence handling, laboratory maintenance, quality control, safety, and accurate reporting of results.