Forensic Scientist I - Biology

Freeman Fire Department; Pierre (SD); On-site; USD 58,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid holidays

Job summary

The South Dakota Attorney General’s Office, Division of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Laboratory seeks a highly organized Forensic Scientist in the biology section in Pierre. The role involves evaluating physical evidence, drafting technical reports for court, and performing standard DNA analyses with adherence to safety and accreditation standards.

Ideal candidates hold a biology/forensic science degree and have coursework in biology/chemistry and statistics or population genetics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or related field.
• Completed at least 9 credit hours of biology/chemistry-related coursework.
• Additional coursework in statistics or population genetics.
• Valid SD driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate, examine, and identify forensic evidence using established procedures.
• Present findings as a court report when necessary.
• Follow lab procedures and regulations; assist with safety and accreditation.
• Undergo proficiency testing and perform related duties.
• Stay current with forensic science advances and DNA training.
• Assist with training, safety, and lab operations; participate in on-call duties.

Skills

Communication

Court testimony

Laboratory procedures

DNA analysis

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biology/forensic science

9 credit hours biology/chemistry

Statistics or population genetics coursework

Job description

Job ID: 37945
Agency: Office of Attorney General, Division of Criminal Investigation, Forensic
Location:Pierre, SDSalary: $58,000 - $62,000 Annual Salary, depending on qualifications
Pay Grade:H
Closing Date:October 30, 2026

This is a full-time position with the Office of the Attorney General. For more information on the Office of the Attorney General, please visithttp://atg.sd.gov.

The South Dakota Attorney General’s Office, Division of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Laboratory is seeking a highly organized and motivatedForensic Scientist in the biology section.

Duties include:

• evaluates, examines, and identifies physical forensic evidence from criminal cases utilizing established and standardized procedures and techniques;
• presents findings as a technical report to a court of law as necessary;
• follows lab procedures and protocols, and Division of Criminal Investigation and Attorney General personnel regulations;
• undergoes proficiency testing and performs related duties as required.
• keeps abreast of scientific advancement in forensic fields by completing comprehensive DNA training, reading new procedures, and attending professional conferences;
• provides general scientific information as requested by the Lab Director, Director of Criminal Investigation, and the SD Attorney General;
• shares general laboratory duties such as training, safety and on-call responsibilities; maintains laboratory safety, and participates with laboratory accreditation.
• other work as assigned by supervisor

The incumbent is exposed to the usual forensic laboratory and crime scene biological hazards, chemicals, and instruments.

This is a salaried position and is subject to occasional call-out for after hour and weekend duty.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in biology, biochemistry, forensic science, or related fields.
• Completed at least 9 credit hours of coursework in biology-or-chemistry-related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis.
• Additional coursework in statistics or population genetics.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid driver’s license for South Dakota.
• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation.

Knowledge of:

• Criminalistics and forensic science;
• Evidence collection, packaging, and preservation;
• Evidence examination and the types of tests commonly used in forensic serology and DNA;
• Laboratory safety.

Ability to:

• Deal tactfully with others;
• Utilize analytical instruments and laboratory equipment properly;
• Conduct a variety of scientific procedures to examine physical evidence;
• Communicate both orally and in writing;
• Testify in court regarding test results and conclusions.

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act.

This position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

Successful applicant(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation. An arrest/conviction record will not necessarily bar employment.

Successful applicant(s) will undergo an abuse and neglect screening. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of a drug screening.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers $0 premium employee health insurance option plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits.

You can view our benefits information here.

This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources and Administration
Telephone: [phone] Email:[e-mail]
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"