DNA Analyst (Forensic Science Division)

Minimum Qualifications (Education and Experience):

The above knowledge skills and abilities are typically acquired by a Bachelor of Science degree or its equivalent degree in a biological chemical or natural science and job-related laboratory experience. The analyst shall have successfully completed at least 9 credit hours of coursework in biology- or chemistry-related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis. This is in addition course work in statistics and/or population genetics as required by FBI Quality Assurance Standards.

Preferred Qualifications:

At least 2 years of experience working within an accredited forensic laboratory with at least 1 year experience performing DNA casework analysis Y-STR analytical experience and use of STRmix probabilistic genotyping software. Additionally experience with the use of a Laboratory Information Management software.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge:

Extensive knowledge of theory practice and use of analytical equipment; biochemical physical chemical and analytical methodologies used in forensic biology; laboratory safety practices including the handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals and potentially infectious biological samples. Extensive knowledge of policies procedures rules guidelines and regulations governing an accredited forensic biology laboratory. Extensive knowledge of computer hardware and software used in a forensic biology laboratory. Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance guidelines and protocols as they pertain to forensic biology. Thorough knowledge of evidence handling and the chain of custody procedures for biological and physical evidence; systematic approaches to the analysis of evidence; case law relating to forensic biology. Knowledge of criminal law and courtroom procedure; human anatomy physiology; techniques of courtroom presentation; current trends in forensic science research in general. Knowledge of criminal investigation techniques.

Skills:

Skill in using stereoscopic and bright field compound microscopes digital imaging/photographic equipment forensic alternative light source micro-pipettors microbalance robotic instrumentation and personal computers. Skill in the methodologies used for preparation of reagents and their respective quality control measures within a forensic laboratory.

Abilities:

Ability to manage time effectively and be self-motivating; to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees other agencies and the public; to follow written and oral instructions; to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to write clear concise accurate and thorough reports to organize case workload on a daily basis; to coordinate responsibilities with colleagues and co-workers; to organize the work place and analytical approach both for safety efficiency and maximum use of available sample; to maintain electronic equipment; to adapt to changing time schedules and working conditions and deal with the associated stress of heavy workloads and varying priorities.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

• Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs. in short intervals.
• Must be willing to work with materials considered to be biological hazards.
• Create and maintain a safe/secure working environment by adhering to DOJ safety security and health requirements.

Special Instructions:

The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicants qualification may include but are not limited to an evaluation of the questionnaire cover letter resume a structured interview performance test academic transcripts reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.

Additional materials references or information submitted by the applicant but not requested will not be considered.

Successful applicant(s) will be subject to:

• Criminal History Fingerprint / Name-based Check
• Intensive Background Check
• Driving History
• Drug Testing

HOW TO APPLY:

To be considered for this position you must attach a cover letter and resume and academic transcripts at the time of application.

Tip: When attaching your resume you must mark the attachment as a Relevant File.

Your Cover Letter: Please include your forensic laboratory experience in your cover letter as well as completing/attaching the questionnaire at the bottom.

Your Resume: Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position. Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.

A complete online state application is not required. To initiate an application attach the resume to be considered for this position. Failure to attach rsum will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.

Only electronic applications will be accepted. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. Please submit preference documentation to Terri Christianson at via File Transfer Service.

To request an accommodation with the application process please contact the HR office.

Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits.

• Medical dental and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Generous paid vacation sick and holidays
• Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program

State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

This Organization Participates in E-Verify.

Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.

Questionnaire:

Division Overview:

The Forensic Science Division Laboratory is a multi-disciplined service facility that supports the Department of Justices mission to pursue activities and programs that seek to ensure and promote the public interest safety and well-being. The activities and programs for which FSD is responsible include managing a statewide system of death investigations and providing scientific analyses of specimens/evidence submitted by law enforcement officials coroners and state agencies.

The mission of the Montana Forensic Science Division is to use operationally efficient and financially responsible practices as the laboratory provides accurate objective and timely forensic analyses to the criminal justice community.

The Division is composed of the following sections: Toxicology/Breath Testing Biology Chemistry/Trace Firearms/Tool Marks Latent Print/Impression Evidence and the State Medical Examiners Office.

Missoula is a college town with a population of approximately 78204 residents. The area surrounding the town provides a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. Missoula is considered an exceptional place to live and is located just a few hours drive from Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.

Destination Missoula

Job Overview:

As a DNA Analyst the incumbent will be working in the Biology section of the laboratory which receives items of evidence collected at the scene of crimes such as homicides rapes suicides assaults and burglaries. These items typically have suspected biological fluid staining. The Forensic Biologist uses state of the art methods to identify biological staining develop DNA profiles from evidentiary samples interpret data and publish reports on the results of the analyses performed. Successful applicants will be tasked with duties that pair with their respective knowledge skills and abilities.

*Please include your forensic laboratory experience in your cover letter and complete the questionnaire at the bottom.

*Please include your academic transcripts.

*A first review of applicants will occur on June 30 2025.

*This is a modified position grant funded position.