Forensic Specialist

Ohio State University; United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University University Hospital | Critical Care Administration seeks a Forensic Specialist to provide trauma‑informed nursing care for patients affected by violence and trauma, integrating nursing science with forensic principles to address medical, emotional, psychosocial, and legal needs.

The role collaborates with physicians, social workers, law enforcement, advocacy agencies, and community partners to ensure safe, patient‑centered care, maintain evidence integrity, and support

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Nursing required; BSN preferred; or board-certified NP/PA.
• Current Ohio licensure; valid driver's license.
• BLS certification required prior to direct patient care.

Responsibilities

• Provide forensic nursing assessment, treatment, evidence collection, documentation, advocacy, and courtroom support.

Skills

Forensic nursing

Trauma-informed care

Evidence collection

Education

ASN

BSN preferred

NP/PA certification

Job description

Job Title

Forensic Specialist

Department

University Hospital | Critical Care Administration

Scope of Position

The Forensic Specialist is a highly specialized professional who provides comprehensive, trauma-informed nursing care to patients across the lifespan affected by violence, abuse, exploitation, trauma, crime, and intentional or unintentional injury. The Forensic Specialist integrates nursing science, forensic science, criminal justice, public health, and trauma-informed care principles to address the medical, emotional, psychosocial, and legal needs of patients. The Forensic Specialist collaborates with physicians, advanced practice providers, social workers, advocacy agencies, law enforcement, legal professionals, and community partners to ensure safe, patient-centered care, maintain evidence integrity, and support continuity of care and patient safety. The position may provide forensic services across multiple OSUWMC and affiliated facilities and participates in community outreach and education initiatives.

Position Summary

Provides expert forensic nursing assessment, treatment, evidence collection, documentation, advocacy, care coordination, education, and courtroom support for patients affected by violence and trauma. Practices in accordance with Ohio law, professional nursing standards, forensic nursing standards, and OSUWMC policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate Degree in Nursing required; Bachelor of Science in Nursing preferred; or board-certified Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant.
• Current applicable Ohio licensure.
• Valid driver's license.
• Reliable transportation.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification prior to providing direct patient care.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in emergency, critical care, women's health, behavioral health, or forensic nursing.
• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certification.
• Advanced or General Forensic Nursing Certification.
• Experience providing trauma-informed care to vulnerable populations.
• Minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience.

Additional Information

Location

University Hospital - Rhodes Hall (0354)

Position Type

Regular

Scheduled Hours

30

Shift

Varying Shifts

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.