Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) – Biology Processing and Crime[...]

State of Oregon; Pendleton (OR); On-site; USD 86,679 - 117,503; Full time

Job summary

The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Pendleton, Oregon is seeking a Forensic Scientist 1 for Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigation disciplines. This full-time, permanent role requires independent casework, quality analysis, and coordination with law enforcement and prosecutors.

Responsibilities include preparing records and reports, meeting accreditation standards, and providing credible testimony. An underfill option exists with distinct minimum qualifications.

Qualifications

• Five years’ experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited Forensic Laboratory.
• Bachelor’s degree in a natural science as listed (biology, chemistry, etc.).
• Official transcripts from all higher education institutions used for the degree.

Responsibilities

• Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in response rotation.
• Perform accurate analysis of evidence according to division policies.
• Prepare records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports for accreditation and courts.
• Provide credible sworn testimony in criminal or civil proceedings.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Time management

Decision making

Written & oral communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in natural science

Job description

Initial Posting Date:07/21/2026Application Deadline:08/18/2026Agency:Oregon State Department of PoliceSalary Range:$7,767 - $10,529Position Type:EmployeePosition Title:Forensic Scientist 1 (Forensic Scientist Entry Underfill Option) – Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigation DisciplinesJob Description:The Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory in Pendleton, Oregon is hiring for one (1) Full-Time, Permanent Forensic Scientist position. To learn more about the Forensic Services Division, click here.If you require an alternate format to complete the employment process, or to request a copy of the position description, please contact [e-mail] and reference REQ-203838.The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.Summary of Job Duties:You will be performing technical and scientific functions as they relate to the Criminal Justice System and in accordance with the policies of the Department of State Police, Forensic Services Division, accreditation procedures, and laws of the State of Oregon.The forensic scientist in this position will:Apply objective, scientific, and critical thinking skills to independently plan and problem solve challenges related to casework in the disciplines of Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigations which meets the quality standards of the Division.Respond to crime scenes in the field and participate in the response rotation as outlined in the Oregon State Police Officers Association contract.Perform accurate and timely analysis of evidence according to Division policies and procedures.Prepare and maintain accurate records, laboratory notes, and analytical reports to conform to accreditation standards, Division policies and procedures, and court proceedings.Manage assigned caseload while maintaining timely communications with law enforcement partners, District Attorneys’ offices, defense counsel, and Forensic Services Division employees.Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.Prepare necessary reagents, standards, and controls to ensure quality results and act as a resource to support Forensic Services Division analysts.Receive and provide training related to assigned duties and perform other duties as needed or requested by the Laboratory Director or other supervisors of the Oregon State Police.Perform independent casework in the disciplines of Biology Processing and Crime Scene/Field Investigations which meets the quality standards of the Division.Complete at least one proficiency test per year for each forensic discipline performed.Assume added responsibilities as authorized.Minimum Qualifications for Forensic Scientist 1 ($7,767.00 - $10,529.00)(these must be addressed in your resume for consideration):Five years’ experience as a Forensic Scientist in an accredited Forensic Laboratory AND A Bachelor’s degree in a natural science such as Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Forensic Science, Pharmacology, Bacteriology, or a closely related field.Please note: A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification.If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.For applicants that are not yet at the full performance level, we are offering an underfill opportunity as follows:Minimum Qualifications for Forensic Scientist Entry ($6,592.00 - $8,159.00)(these must be addressed in your resume for consideration):A Bachelor’s degree in a natural science such as Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Physics, Forensic Science, Pharmacology, Bacteriology, or a closely related field.Please note: A Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or other similar degree does not meet this qualification.If you are selected to move forward in the selection process, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used in the award of your degree.How to Apply:Apply in Workday by the deadline listed above, failure to submit your application by 11:59PM of the above listed date will result in automatic disqualification of your application.1. You must submit a resume demonstrating your experience as it relates to the minimum qualifications for the position.2. In addition to a resume, you must submit a Preferred Skills cover letter – no more than two pages in length – in the Preferred Skills cover letter you must provide clear and concise examples of how you meet the preferred skills listed in the job announcement. Your detailed examples will help us better understand your qualifications and applicability for the role.Failure to attach a resume addressing the minimum qualifications and the preferred skills cover letter addressing the preferred skills will result in disqualification of your application. Please submit these documents in either MS Word or PDF format.Preferred Skills(these must be addressed in your preferred skills cover letter for consideration):Demonstrated experience performing laboratory procedures or other tasks, to include creating and modifying documentation, with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.Demonstrated ability to self-initiate tasks, effectively manage time and prioritize competing demands to meet both scheduled and unexpected deadlines.Demonstrated ability to analyze information objectively and critically, sometimes in time-sensitive situations, and make reasoned, unbiased decisions.Demonstrated ability to communicate both general and technical information, orally and in writing, with a diverse audience in a clear, effective, and professional manner.Ability to demonstrate high levels of emotional intelligence while providing or receiving constructive feedback and excelling as a team member in stressful situations.Special Qualifications:Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.As a condition of employment and / or to routinely work in any of the Forensic Services Division’s laboratories in any capacity, all individuals are required to provide appropriate samples for inclusion into the Confidential Staff DNA Identification Index.Must pass a urine analysis drug screen.Must pass all applicable background, credit, and criminal history checks.Must be able to provide credible sworn testimony in a criminal or civil proceeding arising from the performance of duties.Prior to being hired as a Forensic Scientist with the Oregon State Police, you will be required to participate in a full background investigation process which will include a Criminal History Check and a Credit History Check. These positions, in the course of regular business activities, are responsible for the handling, management and/or analysis of several types of sensitive evidence, including bank statements, checks, debit and credit card information, and other financial records that contain financial information not customarily provided in a retail transaction. Forensic Scientists also handle, manage and/or analyze large amounts of cash, firearms, jewelry, controlled substances, and other valuable property collected as evidence during on-going criminal investigations.Selection Process:The process will be comprised of the following evaluation assessment (subject to change).InterviewBackground InvestigationThis position is covered by an OSPOA Collective Bargaining Agreement. Current OSPOA employees who meet the minimum qualifications of this position will be given preference in the selection process. Current OSP employees should refer to the Filling of Vacancies policy for additional information.Studies have shown that people from underrepresented backgrounds are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet all the qualifications and preferred skills described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and recognize that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you meet key qualifications for the job and believe you would be a good fit, we encourage you to apply; please use your resume and cover letter to address your qualifications and the preferred skills for this position.The salary listed is the non-PERS (Public Employee Retirement System) qualifying salary range. Prior to applying you should ensure all sections of your Workday Job History page is accurate and complete. This information is utilized during the pay equity analysis phase. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%. Please review the following Classification and Compensation links for more details:Forensic Scientist EntryForensic Scientist 1The Oregon State Police does not offer visa sponsorships.U.S. Veteran and/or Oregon National Guard Servicemember Status DesignationEligible veterans and Oregon National Guard servicemembers (current and former) who meet the qualifications of the position will be awarded candidate preference.For more information, please visit Veterans Resources.Additional Information:Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at OSPBackground Hiring InformationEmployee BenefitsPay Equity Information & ResourcesWhat You Need to Know to Get the JobThis recruitment announcement will be used to establish a list of qualified candidates to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.