Forensic Chemist I, Drug Analysis

Duties

Examples of Work

• Conducts complex scientific analysis to detect the presence of controlled substances and/or related materials by following procedures, standards, and regulations as established by law, accreditation, and the Police Department.
• Prepares and reviews technical reports on the findings and conclusions of forensic analysis.
• Receives training in forensic drug analysis in order to complete the Prince George's County Drug Analysis Laboratory Forensic Chemist training program, including court room testimony training.
• Completes the certification process as required by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH).
• Testifies in court as required and confers with and/or advises Police Officers and Attorneys on the forensic aspect of cases.
• Operates, cleans, and maintains laboratory equipment.
• Performs simple troubleshooting of instruments and contacts manufacturer for service/repairs.
• Follows laboratory safety protocols including the usage of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintains current knowledge of departmental general orders, Forensic Science Division standard operating procedures, and the department's disciplinary manual, as they affect the internal disciplinary investigative process.
• Performs tasks not specifically listed in this job description but are within the general occupational category and responsibility typically associated with the employee’s class of work willingly and properly.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Chemistry, Forensic Science, or other Physical Science related field including at least twenty-four (24) semester hours in Chemistry.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree in Chemistry, Forensic Science or other related field.
• Previous experience performing forensic analysis of controlled dangerous substances.
• Current certification as a chemist from the Maryland Department of Health.
• Knowledge of instrumental analysis using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS).
• Previous experience testifying in court as an expert witness in the area of forensic drug analysis.

Work Environment:

• Forensic Chemists complete the majority of their work within laboratories and may also spend time in an administrative/office setting or court room.

Conditions of Employment: Upon selection, the candidate must:

• Must become certified as a Chemist by the Maryland Department of Health during the first year. of employment.
• Pass a drug screening.
• Pass a background investigation.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Be willing to work assigned shift work (days/evenings/weekends/holidays).
• Meet all training and performance standards and demonstrate proficiency as required by the agency.
• Wear and use agency protective apparel and equipment in the performance of their assigned duties, if applicable.
• Essential employees are expected to report during standard or non-standard hours as operations necessitate, or during emergencies. Essential employees are expected to report or remain at work when other County employees are granted Administrative Leave.

Accountability Statement:

• The Incumbent in this position is authorized to carry out those duties and responsibilities in accordance with established performance standards and is subject to reporting and justifying task outcomes to those above him/her in the Department's chain of command. The incumbent treats all information, administrative or operational, as strictly confidential, not to be disseminated in any form unless expressly authorized. Confidential information may not be discussed with other County employees (including individuals in the Police Department), except for work-related reasons, under terms and conditions of the Maryland Public Information Act.

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