Forensic Evidence Specialist I - Evidence Receiving - Central Laboratory - CF280

Department of Forensic Science; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Paid holidays

Vacation

Job summary

The Department of Forensic Science (Central Laboratory) in Mechanicsville, VA, seeks a Forensic Evidence Specialist I for evidence receiving. The role emphasizes handling, storage, and transfer of evidence, while maintaining strict chain of custody and building security during 40-hour weeks.

The position is based in the Central Laboratory with collaboration across DFS staff. Qualified applicants will have data-entry experience, data verification skills, and proficiency in MS Office 365, plus the

Qualifications

• Experience entering data into computer systems.
• Ability to review and verify data for accuracy and completeness.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of standard safety practices when handling evidence.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds, with or without accommodations.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Receive, store, transfer, and return evidence for user agencies, forensic examiners, and other DFS laboratories.
• Maintain chain of custody for evidence using a computerized database.
• Maintain security of the evidence and control access within the building and storage areas.
• Assist with responding to inquiries concerning laboratory capabilities, evidence submission, and return procedures.
• Adhere to a department dress code and wear Department-approved clothing.

Skills

Data entry

Data accuracy

MS Office 365

Safety practices

Lift 75 pounds

Driver’s license

Job description

Title: Forensic Evidence Specialist I - Evidence Receiving - Central Laboratory - CF280

State Role Title:Forensic Science Specialist I

Hiring Range: $55,902

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Department of Forensic Science

Location:Central Lab

Agency Website:www.dfs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

This vacancy posting may fill one position in the Central Laboratory located in Mechanicsville, VA. The Virginia Department of Forensic Science is also filling one Forensic Evidence Specialist position at the Western Laboratory. Positions for each Laboratory are posted separately; you must apply directly to each position that you would like to be considered for employment.

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science Central Laboratory has recently moved to a new, state-of-the-art facility in Hanover County.

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified individual to perform evidence handling and building security duties at the Central Laboratory in Mechanicsville, Virginia. Normal work hours are 40 hours per week within the hours of 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. The position works closely with the laboratory’s technical and administrative staff.

Primary duties include receiving, storing, transferring, and returning evidence for/to user agencies, forensic examiners and other DFS laboratories as well as maintaining access control within the building and property. Duties also include initiating/maintaining the chain of custody for evidence using a computerized database, maintaining security of the evidence, responding to telephone and personal inquiries concerning laboratory capabilities, evidence collection, and submission and return procedures. The incumbent will be required to adhere to a dress code and wear Department-approved clothing.

DFS offers outstanding health benefits at competitive rates, along with paid life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage. Employees also enjoy paid holidays, vacation, and various leave options, access to health and wellness programs, eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, and participation in a state retirement plan with tax-deferred savings options and employer matching.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience conducting data entry into computer systems
• Experience reviewing/verifying data for accuracy and completeness
• Experience using computers and computer applications such as Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Knowledge of standard safety practices when handling evidence
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds, with or without accommodations
• Possess a valid driver’s license

Additional Considerations

• Certified Property and Evidence Specialist or completion of an Evidence Management Training course through a recognized Evidence Management Program
• Work experience or knowledge initiating and documenting the chain of custody of evidence
• Work experience processing and maintaining confidential records and materials
• Work experience or knowledge with handling and packaging of evidence
• Work experience conducting inventories with inventory control systems and conducting independent audits with evidence
• Work experience utilizing access control to maintain physical security
• Knowledge of a Forensic Laboratory Scientific capabilities concerning evidence
• Work experience submitting evidence to a Forensic Laboratory
• Experience working in a Law Enforcement Property and Evidence Room
  

Background Investigation

Reference checks will be conducted and will include contact with current and previous supervisors. The selected candidate(s) will be required to successfully complete a background investigation, including a fingerprint‑based criminal history check. Selected candidate(s) must also provide a DNA sample via buccal swab (saliva) and successfully pass a drug test.

Employment Eligibility Verification

DFS uses E-Verify+, a streamlined system that integrates the Form I-9 process with employment eligibility verification to electronically confirm identity and work authorization.

Contact Information

Name: Amanda Greene

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note:Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

DFS does not provide sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and must maintain such authorization for the duration of their employment without the need for employer sponsorship or a STEM extension.