Overview

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking a Forensic Chemist to work in the Toxicology Section of theVermont Forensic Laboratory.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

• Calibration and maintenance of infrared evidential breath testing instrumentation
• Testing blood samples for alcohol and impairing drugs
• Reviewing current research and literature on drug and alcohol physiology
• Pharmacology
• Analysis methods
• Providing expert opinion

Candidates with experience using toxicological methods such as infrared analysis, immunoassay, solid phase sample extraction, GC/FID, and LC-MS/MS are encouraged to apply. Prior experience performing instrument maintenance and repair a plus. Ideal candidates will have experience testifying as an expert witness and are comfortable with public speaking and communicating complex scientific concepts in a simple to understand manner. An ABFT certification is preferred, but not required.

This is an ongoing position currently authorized through 6/30/2026 with Federal funding appropriated on an annual basis; the position is expected to continue beyond 2026.For more information on the Vermont Forensic Lab, please visit this site.

Who May Apply

This position, Forensic Chemist II (Job Opening #50231), is open to all State employees and external applicants.This is a Limited Service position, which is non-tenured and authorized through 06/30/2026, with anticipated continued funding. Limited Service positions are established for specially funded projects or programs.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Amanda Bolduc at
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.

PUBLIC SAFETY BACKGROUND CHECKS: Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position to include Motor Vehicle/Criminal Records, Personal History, Credit and any additional background check(s).

Environmental Factors

Must be able to work in laboratory conditions with exposure to noxious or harmful fumes and chemicals and operate sophisticated laboratory equipment. Work requires some travel and incumbents should possess a valid Vermont operator's license.

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, forensic science, or a related science field.

OR

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, cellular or molecular biology, toxicology, forensic science, or a related science field AND EITHER two (2) years or more of professional laboratory experience performing biochemical, organic, physical, or toxicological chemical analysis OR one (1) year or more of professional forensic laboratory experience performing analysis on items of forensic evidence.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

• 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
• Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
• State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
• Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
• Low cost group life insurance
• Incentive-based Wellness Program
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State's employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.

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