Forensic Scientist 4 DNA Technical Leader

State of Washington; Federal Way (WA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington State Patrol is seeking a FS4 DNA Technical Leader of Analytical Methods to oversee quality standards for technical methods across six laboratories. The role includes planning validation studies, coordinating Rapid DNA operations, and training partner agency operators in DNA processing for CODIS.

The position requires leadership, strong communication, and knowledge of FBI QA Standards, SWGDAM guidelines, and accreditation processes, with travel to various labs as needed.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in biology, chemistry, or forensic science-related area.
• Completed coursework in statistics or population genetics with at least 1 graduate-level course.
• Two years of Forensic Scientist 3 DNA experience or 5 years in a forensic lab with DNA analysis experience.

Responsibilities

• Propose new or modified analytical procedures and validate studies.
• Plan and coordinate Rapid DNA training and external communications.
• Review validation studies and maintain laboratory procedures.
• Conduct site visits to each lab semi-annually.
• Assist in audits and document compliance with standards.

Skills

Public speaking

Travel willingness

Teamwork

Education

Master’s degree in biology/chemistry/forensic science

Statistics or population genetics coursework (1 graduate course)

Job description

This is a project position with an anticipated end date of September 30, 2027, however there is a high likelihood that grant funds will continue after that date. This role is primarily based in Seattle, but we are happy to offer moving the position to Spokane or Vancouver based on your preference. If Seattle is your preferred location, you will receive 5% King County pay, in addition to your salary.

About the Position

The Forensic Scientist 4 (FS4) DNA Technical Leader of Analytical Methods role supports the Crime Laboratory Division’s statewide Forensic DNA program and is based in the Standards and Accountability Unit (SAS) under the direction of the primary DNA Technical Leader. This new role will have the responsibility for the subset of Quality Assurance Standards pertaining to technical methods in use by the WSPCLD’s 6 laboratories, as well as fulfilling the role of WSP’s Rapid DNA Administrator, overseeing users of Rapid DNA to process samples for CODIS following the FBI’s Quality Assurance Standards. By having personnel dedicated to carrying out new method adoption by WSPCLD, as well as the developing Rapid DNA program, the capacity of the WSPCLD to provide high quality forensic services and training is expected to increase.

This position plans and evaluates internal studies to adopt new or modified analytical methods, which will include assigning project tasks. Will plan, assign, instruct/train, and review/approve training qualifications of Rapid DNA partner agency operators.

About the Division

The Crime Laboratory Division (CLD) provides high quality forensic science services and training for Washington’s criminal justice agencies that enhances public safety for the citizens of Washington.

About the Agency

The Washington State Patrol is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to foster an environment in which everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves, communicate openly, and act with courage. The WSP is dedicated to promoting fair and equitable hiring, training, and promotional practices through innovative recruitment and retention strategies.

Our new teammate will be able to:

• Propose new or modified analytical procedures, plan validation studies, manage validation projects, collate and analyze data, draft, review, and approve validation summaries, and revise standard operating procedures.
• Plan and coordinate WA state Rapid DNA working group meetings and other external communication, provide or oversee training of operators in partner agencies, review training, approve qualifications, authorize operators, establish procedures and MOUs.
• Review of validation studies and analytical procedures currently used by the lab, review laboratory procedures annually, stay abreast of topics relevant to the field.
• Conduct and document a site visit to each lab semi-annually.
• Perform duties of acting primary DNA Technical Leader, as assigned.
• Assist in preparing for internal and external audits.
• Document compliance with standards, regulations, agency and division policy.
• Participate in any requests for interviews or court declarations by attorneys, provide testimony in WA courts.

Interactions to accomplish the work

Interaction is with the WSP’s primary DNA Technical Leader, DNA Operations Manager, other Standards & Accountability section members, DNA forensic scientists, laboratory staff at work location, FLSB IT personnel, law enforcement, attorneys, vendors, medical examiner/coroner office staff, and occasionally the general public.

Schedule: 40-hour work week, generally 5 days per week Monday through Friday. Hours may be flexible upon approval of the supervisor. Business hours are determined locally and are generally 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Required Qualifications

• A master’s degree in a biology, chemistry, or forensic science-related area.
• Successfully completed coursework in statistics or population genetics and at least 9 credit hours in biology or chemistry-related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis. Completed coursework shall include at least 1 graduate level course.
• At least two years of experience as a Forensic Scientist 3 in DNA, or 5 years of full-time paid experience in a forensic science laboratory as a qualified analyst authorized to conduct human DNA STR testing on forensic samples, with documented DNA mixture interpretation training.
• Demonstrates a high level of public speaking skills. Effectively expresses ideas and information through the spoken word using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience.
• Knowledge of forensic DNA analysis, FBI Quality Assurance Standards, SWGDAM validation guidelines, and accreditation standards.
• Works cooperatively and effectively with other people at all levels of the organization.
• Solves problems and analyzes issues.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license due to travel required to complete job duties.
• Equity Competencies
  • The ability to take action to learn and grow.
  • The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.

Conditions of Employment

• Successful completion of a pre-employment polygraph examination and background investigation.
• Must provide an oral DNA reference sample for upload into any quality control databases, such as the elimination index of the WA State CODIS database.
• Successful completion of training in STR DNA testing using STRmix and Y-STR testing performed by the laboratory within six months of appointment.
• Successful completion of training in the FBI’s DNA auditor training course within one year of appointment.
• Review validation studies and analytical procedures currently used by the laboratory within one year of appointment.

Why work for the Washington State Patrol?

• A healthy life/work balance by offering flexible schedules and telework options for most positions.
• Infants at Work Program based on the long-term health values of infant-parent bonding and breastfeeding newborns.
• Continuous growth and development opportunities.
• Opportunities to serve your community and make an impact through meaningful work.
• Employment opportunities that recognize military veterans and/or military spouse per Governor Executive Order 19-01.
• Qualification for the Public Loan Forgiveness Program.

The Washington State Patrol does not provide immigration sponsorship; therefore, applicants must possess work authorization that does not require employer sponsorship.

Applicants claiming veterans preference must attach a copy of their DD214 (SSN must be blacked out). If you do not provide the required documentation, the veterans preference will not be awarded. Please click here to determine your eligibility.

Please contact Monica Simpson at [e-mail]