Entry-Level Forensic Chemist - Chemical Analysis

Cityandcountyofsanfrancisco1; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The City and County of San Francisco is seeking a Criminalist I in Chemical Analysis. Under general supervision, you will train in the examination and identification of chemical substances, perform basic tests, handle evidence, and operate laboratory instruments.

As training progresses, you will take on routine duties and advance to more complex chemical analyses, contributing to casework and potentially providing expert testimony in court.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in criminalistics, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or closely related physical science.
• 8 semester units of chemistry with lab and 8 units of organic chemistry with lab.
• Valid driver's license.
• Verification: upload transcript showing completion of these courses.

Responsibilities

• Retrieves evidence from scenes, custody, or other sources following chain of custody.
• Preserves evidence by inventorying, documenting, and safekeeping.
• Adheres to safety standards in handling chemicals and maintaining equipment.
• Documents observations with notes, photos, sketches, and charts.
• Assists in technical report reviews and presents findings in court as an expert witness.
• Identifies controlled substances and supports breath alcohol analysis.
• Participates in proficiency testing to meet quality standards.

Skills

Forensic chemistry

Evidence handling

Analytical skills

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in criminalistics, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related physical science

Job description

The City and County of San Francisco is seeking a Criminalist I in Chemical Analysis. Under general supervision, you will train in the examination and identification of chemical substances, perform basic tests, handle evidence, and operate laboratory instruments.

As training progresses, you will take on routine duties and advance to more complex chemical analyses, contributing to casework and potentially providing expert testimony in court.