Forensic Scientist I

State of North Carolina; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

The North Carolina Department of Justice, including the State Crime Lab Investigation Division, seeks a Forensic Scientist I (S) to perform entry level digital evidence casework, prepare reports, and provide expert testimony in court. A background in digital forensics and related certifications is required or pursued within 18 months.

Minimum education includes a bachelor’s degree in computer science, forensic science, or related fields, with coursework in IT or science.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Must obtain individual certification consistent with international and ISO standards within eighteen months of the date the analyst becomes eligible to seek certification from certifying entity; vendor-neutral certifications may include CFCE, CCE, DFCP, GCFE, CFVT, CFVE.

Responsibilities

• Perform entry level Digital Evidence casework
• Prepare written reports of the results of the analyses
• Provide expert testimony in court

Skills

Digital forensics

Expert testimony

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or forensic science or related field

Tools

Cellebrite

Magnet

Job description

Agency

Dept of Justice

Division

State Crime Lab Investigation

Job Classification Title

Forensic Scientist I (S)

Position Number

60010650

Grade

NC14

About Us

The 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 Work

Recruitment Range: $55,000 - $60,619

IMPORTANT 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 court

The 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 screening

Out 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 Preferences

Current certifications in digital and / or audio-video forensics (e.g. ISFCE, IACIS, NW3C, LEVA, Cellebrite, Magnet)

Minimum Education and Experience

Some 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:

CONTACT INFORMATION:

NC Department of Justice
Human Resources
[e-mail]

EEO Statement

The 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.