Forensic Chemist I

Commonwealth of Kentucky; Frankfort (KY); On-site; USD 43,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth of Kentucky's Kentucky State Police seeks a Forensic Chemist I to join the Trace Analysis unit in Frankfort. The position pays $50,000 annually, full-time in the Executive Branch with overtime eligibility, and requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related field.

You will analyze evidence submitted by law enforcement, prepare reports, provide courtroom testimony, handle and secure evidence, and maintain laboratory instrumentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, forensic science, or related field.
• No prior experience required.
• Ability to work in a forensic laboratory environment.

Responsibilities

• Analyzes substances submitted by law enforcement agencies to determine properties and identity.
• Receives specialized training in designated forensic disciplines.
• Compiles and reviews laboratory reports regarding analysis of submitted evidence.
• Maintains review of work-related literature and other documents.
• Provides testimony throughout the Commonwealth pertaining to forensic analysis and reports.
• Receives and releases evidence and is responsible for the security of such evidence until released.
• Maintains laboratory instrumentation.
• Responds to crime scenes and other work-related details.

Skills

Attention to detail

Written communication

Verbal communication

Multi-tasking

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry/forensic science

Job description

Forensic Chemist I

Advertisement Closes 9/25/2026 (11:59 PM ET)

$50,000.00 Annually

Pay Grade: 14

Employment Type: EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 40.0 HR/WK

Hiring Agency: Justice & Public Safety Cabinet | Kentucky State Police

Location: 100 Sower Boulevard, Suite 102
Frankfort, KY 40601 USA

Kentucky State Police is the premier, full-service law enforcement agency in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.With the highest level of professionalism and integrity the Kentucky State Police works to prevent, reduce,and deter crime and the fear of crime; enhance highway safety through education and enforcement; protect andsafeguard individual rights; and provide leadership, training, technical, and operational support to thecriminal justice community.

A Forensic Chemist hired for Trace Analysis will be trained to work several different disciplines within theTrace Analysis section. Due to the nature of Trace Analysis, evidence submissions may include ignitableliquids, hairs, fibers, glass, paint, tape, gunshot residue, and unknown specimens. Court room testimony ofanalytical results are required.

• Analyzes substances submitted by law enforcement agencies to determine properties and identity, and to determinewhether an association exists between materials.
• Receives specialized training in designated forensic disciplines.
• Compiles and reviews laboratory reports regarding analysis of submitted evidence.
• Maintains review of work-related literature and other documents.
• Provides testimony throughout the Commonwealth pertaining to forensic analysis and reports.
• Receives and releases evidence and is responsible for the security of such evidence until released.
• Maintains laboratory instrumentation.
• Responds to crime scenes and other work-related special details.

• Significant attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Ability to multi-task.
• Strong problem solver.

Minimum Requirements

EDUCATION: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related science field.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: NONE

Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE: NONE

Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION: NONE

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE

Working Conditions

Incumbents in this classification will typically perform their job duties in a forensic laboratory setting. May have some contact with contagious diseases and/or body fluids or regular exposure to noxious odors, chemical substances, and biohazardous compounds, which may require the following of safety procedures. Regular handling of sharp surgical instruments.

Probationary Period

This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 12 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.

If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Jack Reid at [e-mail]

An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D