Forensic Technologist - Missing Persons Unit

University of North Texas Health at Fort Worth; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 54,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

University of North Texas Health at Fort Worth seeks a qualified Forensic Technologist for the Missing Persons Unit. The role covers DNA extraction, quantification, amplification, and loading of forensic samples to analytical instruments to support investigations.

Also involves daily lab maintenance and occasional court testimony. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or GED with related experience, knowledge of forensic science, and strong written and verbal communication.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required, with related experience.
• Knowledge of forensic science principles and evidence handling for investigations.
• Strong written and oral communication, with attention to detail and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Perform lab duties for Missing Persons Unit, including DNA extraction, quantification, amplification, and loading onto instruments.
• Assist with daily maintenance and stocking of laboratories.
• Provide court testimony as required and maintain proficiency through external tests.

Skills

Forensic science knowledge

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Working under pressure

Education

High school diploma or GED

Texas Forensic Science Commission license

Job description

Title: Forensic Technologist - Missing Persons Unit

Employee Classification: Forensic Technologist

Campus: University of North Texas Health at Fort Worth

Division: HSC-Div of Rsrch & Innovation

SubDivision-Department: HSC-Health Institutes & Centers

Department: HSC-Center for Human ID-304600

Job Location: Fort Worth

Salary: Grade 08

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: TRS Eligible

About Us - Values Overview

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and University of North Texas Health Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.

We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.

Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu.

Department Summary

The Center for Human Identification (CHI) at UNT Health is an accredited forensic lab designated as a criminal justice agency by the state of Texas. Globally recognized for its expertise, CHI offers forensic DNA testing, forensic genetic genealogy (FGG), CODIS operations, anthropological analysis, investigative support, cutting-edge research initiatives, and forensic training and education. CHI was the first public lab in the nation accredited to perform forensic genetic genealogy (FGG) and manages the Texas Missing Persons DNA Database.

Position Overview

Perform lab duties as part of the Missing Persons Unit, to include DNA extraction, quantification, amplification and loading of forensic samples onto analytical instruments for analysis to support criminal and civil investigations. Assist in performing daily maintenance and stocking of laboratories.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or GED and three (3) years of related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of forensic science principles, evidence collection, and preservation techniques related to criminal investigations.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
• Skill toward completing assignments with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong written and oral communication skills to prepare detailed reports and present findings clearly to law enforcement and in court.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of forensic science issues.

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Texas Forensic Science Commission Forensic Biology Technician License

Job Duties

• Casework examination following all Quality Assurance Manual and Procedure Manual guidelines.
• Perform extractions, quantitation's, amplifications, and load samples on the genetic analyzers for processing of forensic casework samples.
• Work with the analyst to determine which samples may require reextractions, reamplification, or reloading.
• Assist with daily maintenance checks and stock laboratories.
• Provide court testimony as required.
• Maintain proficiency by completing two external proficiency tests per year as required by the National Standards.

Physical Requirements

• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.

Environmental Hazards

• No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Work Schedule

8:00a - 5:00p, M-F (with potential for flexible schedule)

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit –and takes actions to prevent – discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking), and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices, and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities. UNT System Administration promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. System Administration also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist, or participate in a related investigation or proceeding.