Forensic Instrument Technician – Breath Testing & Lab Support

State-of-Iowa; Ankeny (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance (coverage)

Retirement plan (IPERS)

Job summary

State of Iowa, via the Iowa Department of Public Safety, seeks a Forensic Science Technician in the Criminalistics Laboratory to certify and repair evidential breath testing instruments used statewide. You will prepare calibration solutions, generate certification reports, and support Criminalists with paperwork and database entries.

Travel across Iowa is required, including potential overnight absences for courtroom testimony and education.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, forensic science, physics, or related field required or completed Fall 2026
• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation before offer
• Must be able to travel and may stay overnight on assignments

Responsibilities

• Certify and repair evidential breath testing instruments statewide
• Prepare certification reports and testing solutions for calibration
• Assist with training law enforcement officers and document activities
• Contact law enforcement agencies as needed and maintain inventory of parts and supplies
• May assist toxicology sample management and support crime scene responses

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Flexibility

Education

Associate's degree in laboratory technology or closely related field

Bachelor's degree in a science discipline acceptable

Job description

State of Iowa, via the Iowa Department of Public Safety, seeks a Forensic Science Technician in the Criminalistics Laboratory to certify and repair evidential breath testing instruments used statewide. You will prepare calibration solutions, generate certification reports, and support Criminalists with paperwork and database entries.

Travel across Iowa is required, including potential overnight absences for courtroom testimony and education.