Forensic Toxicologist or Trainee - Toxicology

Duties

Forensic Toxicologist - Scientist III

• The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified Forensic Toxicologist to perform postmortem and human performance toxicology testing and provide testimony about the effects of alcohol and/or drugs on human performance and behavior in the Western Laboratory, located in Roanoke, Virginia. The candidate will independently analyze human fluids and tissues in postmortem, DUI/DUID and other criminal cases using chemical and instrumental methodologies, critically evaluate data, prepare and issue Certificates of Analysis, and interpret and defend results in courts of law. Frequent travel, occasionally overnight, is required and employee will provide own transportation as required.

Trainee:

• If a Forensic Toxicologist candidate does not meet all the required qualifications, a Forensic Toxicologist Trainee position may be offered to the most suitable candidate with a salary of $75,697. The selected candidate will be expected to successfully complete a Forensic Toxicologist Trainee training program. Upon successful completion of Forensic Toxicologist training program, the trainee’s salary will be established within the salary range for a qualified Forensic Toxicologist. The training will last approximately 18 months, dependent upon the qualifications of the selected candidate. The Trainee must meet the degree requirements stated in the minimum qualifications.
• A successful Forensic Toxicologist Trainee will have competencies that include attention to detail, critical thinking, analytical, deductive reasoning, problem solving, observation, and time management skills.

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

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in toxicology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology or closely related scientific field
• Education shall include general and organic chemistry with at least one course related to analytical science (e.g., analytical chemistry, quantitative analysis or mass spectrometry) and one course or supplemental training related to understanding the physiological effects of alcohol, drugs, and/or other substances (e.g., forensic toxicology, pharmacology, or medicinal chemistry)
• Employment experience in a forensic toxicology laboratory, to include successful completion of a documented training program from an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited private, local, state, or federal forensic science laboratory and demonstration of competency
• Independent knowledge of the theoretical principles and applications of instrumentation and methodologies used to analyze specimens submitted to the laboratory
• Documented training and demonstrated knowledge to the effects of alcohol and/or drugs on human performance and behavior
• Experience working in an accredited forensic science laboratory and/or familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ANAB accreditation criteria
• Professional experience using basic laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation (i.e., immunoassay, HPLC, GC/MS, GC/FID, GC/NPD and LC/MS/MS) to identify alcohol and/or drugs in biological samples
• Knowledge, skills, and ability to testify in court through experience and/or training
• Ability to work independently, set priorities, work efficiently, keep accurate records, accurately analyze samples, correctly interpret data and develop reasonable conclusions
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and quality assurance/quality control procedures
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation

Additional Considerations

• Certification or eligibility for certification as a Fellow of the American Board of Forensic Toxicology
• Trained to provide expert witness courtroom testimony and experience preparing and presenting exhibits of evidence, both verbally and in writing in a clear and concise manner
• Experience in forensic related teaching/training

Trainee Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in toxicology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology or closely related scientific field
• Applications will be considered from individuals who will receive their Ph.D. within approximately 3 months of filing their application. Before employment can be considered, verification of the degree, or confirmation from the graduate program of expected completion of the degree, is required. The selected candidate must have been awarded the degree by the start of employment
• Ability to maintain accurate records, analyze and interpret data, manage multiple tasks efficiently, establish work priorities, and develop sound conclusions from analyses
• Possess good oral and written communication skills
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation

Trainee Additional Considerations:

• Experience in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited private, local, state, or federal forensic science laboratory (employment and/or internship)
• Experience using basic laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation (i.e., immunoassay, HPLC, GC/MS, GC/FID, GC/NPD and LC/MS/MS)

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