FORENSIC SPECIALIST

State of Arkansas; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 59,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Arkansas Department of Public Safety is seeking a Forensic Specialist to support investigations by analyzing evidence and assisting law enforcement in criminal cases. The role requires technical expertise, precise data handling, and clear communication.

You will prepare forensic reports, maintain chain-of-custody, and coordinate with Medical Examiners and legal professionals to provide expert insights.

Qualifications

• At least two years of experience in forensic analysis or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of forensic science principles and methods.
• Ability to provide expert testimony when required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific analysis of forensic evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, controlled substances, toxicology, ballistics, and trace evidence.
• Prepare detailed forensic reports documenting findings, methodologies, and conclusions.
• Provide expert witness testimony in court when required.
• Maintain chain-of-custody records and ensure proper documentation.
• Assist law enforcement and legal professionals in interpreting forensic results.
• Work with attorneys and investigators to present forensic findings.

Skills

Forensic knowledge

Laboratory techniques

Evidence analysis

Instrumentation

Forensic software

Verbal communication

Written communication

Attention to detail

Critical thinking

Job description

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Position Number: 22134073
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: [[postingEndDate]]
Anticipated Starting Salary: 58700
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The Department of Public Safety's mission is to enhance the safety and security of all Arkansans through ethical, character-driven behavior that promotes professionalism, clear communication, and accountability while serving as the state's premier public safety agency.

This Forensic Specialist serves as the primary liaison for the Medical Examiner section, facilitating the accurate exchange of scientific and case-related information. The role includes responding to external inquiries regarding autopsies conducted by Medical Examiners and coordinating the authorized release of autopsy and toxicology reports, which often requires obtaining prosecutorial approval. The Forensic Specialist also arranges consultations between Medical Examiners and involved parties when additional scientific clarification is appropriate.

Position Information

Classification: Forensic Specialist

Class Code: SFO04P

Pay Grade: SPC01

Salary Range: $58,700 - $86,876

Job Summary

The Forensic Specialist is responsible for supporting forensic investigations by analyzing evidence, conducting laboratory tests, and assisting law enforcement agencies in criminal cases. This position requires technical expertise, analytical precision, and strong communication skills to ensure accurate and reliable forensic results. The Forensic Specialist plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of evidence, preparing reports, and providing expert insights to investigators and legal professionals.

Primary Responsibilities

Conduct scientific analysis of forensic evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, controlled substances, toxicology, ballistics, and trace evidence.Utilize advanced forensic techniques and specialized laboratory equipment to examine physical and digital evidence.Follow established forensic protocols, laboratory procedures, and quality control standards.Ensure proper documentation and chain-of-custody procedures for all forensic materials.Prepare detailed forensic reports that accurately document findings, methodologies, and conclusions.Maintain records of forensic examinations, testing protocols, and laboratory procedures.Assist law enforcement and legal professionals in understanding forensic results and investigative implications.Provide expert witness testimony in court proceedings when required.Work with attorneys, law enforcement officers, and forensic scientists to interpret and present forensic findings.Adhere to legal and ethical standards in forensic science and courtroom proceedings.Participate in proficiency testing, forensic audits, and quality assurance programs.Work closely with forensic scientists, law enforcement personnel, and crime scene investigators to support casework.Provide technical guidance and support to investigative teams.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong knowledge of forensic science principles, laboratory techniques, and evidence analysis methods.Proficiency in scientific instrumentation and forensic software for data analysis and casework.Ability to examine, interpret, and validate forensic evidence with accuracy and precision.Exceptional attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of forensic examinations.Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze complex forensic data.Ability to identify inconsistencies, errors, or anomalies in forensic evidence.Excellent verbal and written communication skills for forensic reporting and expert testimony.Ability to present technical forensic findings in a clear and concise manner to legal professionals and juries.Commitment to scientific integrity and unbiased forensic analysis.Strong adherence to legal and ethical forensic science standards.Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Minimum Qualifications

At least two years of experience in forensic analysis, laboratory work, crime scene processing, or a related field.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee's demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/AOTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.