Forensic Scientist

We are seeking a highly skilled Forensic Scientist to join our team at the Virginia Department of Forensic Science. As a Forensic Scientist, you will be responsible for performing a full range of functions to recover and examine friction ridge prints for identification purposes.

• Process evidence submitted to the Latent Print Section utilizing various chemical and physical techniques for the development of friction ridge prints.
• Utilize various light sources to examine evidence for the detection of friction ridge prints, use digital capture equipment to record friction ridge prints developed, and be responsible for utilizing sound judgment on the application of correct sequential processing procedures.
• Document, evaluate, analyze, and preserve evidence and utilize various comparison techniques while maintaining the chain of custody.
• Conduct computerized database searches, as well as update databases as necessary, and utilize methods and equipment to enhance latent print evidence.
• Compose and complete reports, produce documentation of examination, provide information to investigators, and provide expert testimony in court proceedings.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
• 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 in the latent print discipline.
• Experience with fingerprint pattern recognition, comparing latent prints with known finger, foot, and palm prints, developing and recovery of latent prints on physical evidence, and obtaining prints from living and deceased individuals.
• Knowledge, skills, and ability to testify in court through experience and/or training.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and quality assurance/quality control procedures.
• Ability to work independently, set priorities, maintain accurate records, analyze and interpret data, manage multiple tasks efficiently, establish work priorities, and develop sound conclusions from examinations.
• Possess good oral and written communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and/or other means of reliable transportation.

• Experience as an expert witness providing courtroom testimony and preparing and presenting exhibits of evidence, both verbally and in writing, in a clear and concise manner.
• Certification as a Latent Print Examiner by the International Association for Identification (IAI).
• Experience using systems such as AFIS and/or NGI.
• Experience using the Mideo Systems Latent Works software and conducting on-screen comparisons of latent prints to known exemplars.
• Experience in latent print photography, including technical experience with filters, light sources, and Adobe Photoshop.
• Experience working in an accredited forensic science laboratory and/or familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ANAB accreditation criteria.
• Experience in forensic related teaching/training.

Please note that the Virginia Department of Forensic Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is V3 Virginia Values Veterans certified. We strictly prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of our workforce.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment. A probationary period of 12 months will be required for this position. Selected candidate(s) must successfully pass a background investigation to include a fingerprint-based criminal history check, provide a DNA sample via a buccal swab (saliva sample), and successfully pass a drug test. Reference checks will be conducted to include contact with current/previous supervisors.

DFS will record information from each new employee's Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.