Forensic Scientist I

State of North Carolina - Justice; North Carolina; On-site; USD 55,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

NC Department of Justice, including the State Crime Lab, seeks an entry-level Forensic Scientist I (Digital Evidence) to perform casework, prepare reports, and provide expert testimony. Training will cover Computer Forensics or Audio/Video, with certifications pursued within 18 months of eligibility.

A comprehensive background check is required, including polygraph and urinalysis, with potential out-of-state steps for some applicants.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a major in computer science, digital forensics, information technology, cyber technology, criminal justice, or related field.
• Must obtain digital certifications within 18 months of eligibility.
• Certification options include CFCE, CCE, DFCP, GCFE, CFVT, CFVE.
• Equivalent education/experience may apply per policy.

Responsibilities

• Perform entry-level Digital Evidence casework.
• Prepare written reports of analyses.
• Provide expert testimony in court.
• Complete prescribed Digital Evidence training and become certified in one discipline (Computer Forensics or Audio/Video).

Skills

Digital forensics

Forensic reporting

Court testimony

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Certifications: CFCE / CCE / DFCP / GCFE / CFVE

Job description

AgencyDept of JusticeDivisionState Crime Lab InvestigationJob Classification TitleForensic Scientist I (S)Position Number60010650GradeNC14About UsThe North Carolina Department of Justice, led by the Attorney General of North Carolina, represents the state, state agencies, and elected officials, and defends the rights of the people of North Carolina. The Department handles all state criminal appeals cases and assists district attorneys with complex criminal cases at their request. Additionally, the Department of Justice includes the North Carolina State Crime Lab, the North Carolina Justice Academy, and the Sheriffs’ and Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Divisions.Description of WorkRecruitment Range: $55,000 - $60,619IMPORTANT NOTE: This posting closes at 11:59:59 PM the night BEFORE the End Date listed.The primary purpose of the State Crime Laboratory is to accept, find, preserve and provide scientific forensic analysis of evidence for the criminal justice community. The forensic services provided include in-lab analyses, technical field assistance, and expert witness testimony in the following areas: Digital Evidence, Drug Chemistry, Firearm & Tool Mark, Forensic Biology, DNA Database, Latent Evidence, Toxicology and Trace Evidence.The primary purpose of this Forensic Scientist I position is: to perform entry level Digital Evidence casework prepare written reports of the results of the analyses provide expert testimony in courtThe Forensic Scientist I will complete prescribed Digital Evidence training requirements before beginning casework. The Forensic Scientist I will train and become certified to complete casework in one of the two disciplines in the Section: Computer Forensics (includes Mobile Devices), or Audio/Video.The selected candidate will undergo and must successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation which may take several months to complete. The background investigation includes:• polygraph• credit and arrest checks• interviews with associates to include personal and business references, past employers, and neighbors• verification of education achievement• fingerprinting• urinalysis drug screeningOut of state applicants: After the initial interview, this may require the applicant to return to the State of North Carolina multiple times at his or her own expense to undergo the background investigation process.Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management PreferencesCurrent certifications in digital and / or audio-video forensics (e.g. ISFCE, IACIS, NW3C, LEVA, Cellebrite, Magnet)Minimum Education and ExperienceSome state job postings say you can qualify by an “equivalent combination of education and experience.” If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.Bachelor's degree with a major in computer science, digital forensics, networking, information technology, cyber technology, criminal justice; or forensic science or multi-media studies with coursework in computer science or information technology; or biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry and other science degrees (if degree includes significant coursework in computer science or information technology); or closely related curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution including coursework in science; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Necessary Special Requirement (Digital): Must obtain individual certification consistent with international and ISO standards within eighteen months of the date the analyst becomes eligible to seek certification according to the standards of the certifying entity. Such vendor-neutral certifications may include: Certified Computer Forensic Examiner (CFCE) – International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists, Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) – International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners Digital Forensics Certified Practitioner (DFCP) – Digital Forensics Certification Board (requires a minimum 5 years of verified experience prior to sitting for the exam), Global Information Assurance Certification Forensic Examiner (GCFE) – SANS Institute, Certified Video Technician (CFVT) – Law Enforcement & Emergency Service Video Association (requires a minimum of 3 years of verified experience prior to sitting for the exam), Certified Forensic Video Examiner (CFVE) – International Association for Identification (requires a minimum of 3-5 years of verified experience depending on applicant’s education level).Supplemental Information:Resumes and cover letters: To receive credit for your work history and credentials, you must list the information on the online application form. This information is used to determine if you meet the requirements of the position, and if you are selected, it is used to determine a salary offer.Using the terms "See Resume" or "See Attachment" will not be accepted, and your application will be rejected as incomplete. Cover letters are highly encouraged but not required.Credit for foreign degrees will only be given if verification of degree certification is attached to your application. Transcripts for foreign degrees have to be evaluated by an organization like World Education Services to determine US equivalency.CONTACT INFORMATION:NC Department of JusticeHuman [e-mail] StatementT he State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.Recruiter:Andrea Evet CannonRecruiter Email:[e-mail]