Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; New Stanton (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is seeking a Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee to join the Pennsylvania State Police. This entry‑level program provides hands‑on training in DNA analysis, laboratory operations, evidence handling, and courtroom preparation in an accredited lab.

A structured schedule runs 37.5 hours weekly, Monday–Friday, with no telework option. Minimum qualifications include a science bachelor's degree with specified chemistry credits and related coursework; applicants may be

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science, which includes or is supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry and three credits each in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

Responsibilities

• DNA Analysis Training: Learn chemical and biological techniques used to analyze, identify, and interpret human DNA samples
• Laboratory Operations: Operate specialized equipment, utilize forensic DNA systems, and assist with equipment maintenance and performance checks
• Evidence Handling: Follow proper procedures for collecting, preserving, documenting, and tracking evidence and sample chain of custody
• Case Documentation: Prepare detailed laboratory records and maintain documentation that meets legal and laboratory requirements
• Professional Development: Attend training sessions, staff meetings, conferences, and educational activities while reviewing scientific publications and reference materials
• Quality Compliance: Follow laboratory policies, safety procedures, accreditation requirements, and forensic DNA quality standards governing analytical work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry/biology/forensic science or closely related field

Job description

Are you fascinated by science and eager to build a career that helps support criminal investigations through advanced DNA analysis? As a Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee with the Pennsylvania State Police, you will receive hands-on training in cutting-edge laboratory techniques used to examine DNA evidence. You will develop valuable scientific skills while working with experienced professionals in an accredited forensic laboratory. Put your curiosity and dedication to work in a position where learning and public service come together.

The Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee participates in a structured training program designed to develop the knowledge and skills needed to perform forensic DNA analysis. This position provides hands-on experience with laboratory procedures, scientific equipment, evidence handling, quality standards, and courtroom preparation. As a Forensic DNA Scientist Trainee, you will perform the following duties:

• DNA Analysis Training: Learn chemical and biological techniques used to analyze, identify, and interpret human DNA samples
• Laboratory Operations: Operate specialized equipment, utilize forensic DNA systems, and assist with equipment maintenance and performance checks
• Evidence Handling: Follow proper procedures for collecting, preserving, documenting, and tracking evidence and sample chain of custody
• Case Documentation: Prepare detailed laboratory records and maintain documentation that meets legal and laboratory requirements
• Professional Development: Attend training sessions, staff meetings, conferences, and educational activities while reviewing scientific publications and reference materials
• Quality Compliance: Follow laboratory policies, safety procedures, accreditation requirements, and forensic DNA quality standards governing analytical work

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time employment, 37.5 hours per week
• Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or a closely related physical or natural science, which includes or is supplemented by 16 college credits in chemistry and three credits each in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and population genetics or statistics.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within three months of graduating with a qualifying degree/credits.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• This job title has been identified as performing critical duties. Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a Report of Medications for screening by the State Police Medical Officer.
• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.