Forensic Science Technician

About the Organization

The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency dedicated to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. Guided by the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, DPS collaborates with federal, state, and local jurisdictions to ensure the safety of residents and travelers. The DPS encompasses several key divisions, including the Iowa State Patrol, the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the State Fire Marshal, and the Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center.

About the Role

The Forensic Science Technician serves as a vital technical support role within the DNA section of the DCI Crime Laboratory. This position is essential for maintaining forensic and database laboratory operations, acting as the bridge between evidence collection and criminalist interpretation. The role focuses on the rigorous processing of DNA samples using advanced analytical instrumentation, including robotic sampling, extraction, quantitation, and capillary electrophoresis. Technicians prepare samples up to the point where data is ready for interpretation, ensuring the integrity of the evidence chain.

Beyond technical processing, the Forensic Science Technician plays a critical role in case management. Responsibilities include triaging laboratory submissions, communicating with stakeholders to prioritize evidence, and documenting testing results. Technicians are responsible for preparing reports and testifying in court regarding their work. The role also involves maintaining laboratory inventory, managing biohazard and regular waste, and ensuring the electronic storage of case files.

Hiring Process & Application

Candidates are encouraged to attach a cover letter, transcripts, and resume within the NEOGOV application system. All applicants must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by DPS investigators before a final offer is extended. The State of Iowa is an E-Verify Employer.

Please note that this is an on-site position and is not remote. Candidates must be able to travel and may be required to stay away from home overnight during assignments. A valid Iowa Driver's License is required.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The State of Iowa is committed to valuing the talents and backgrounds of all employees. We are an equal opportunity employer and consider qualified applicants regardless of background.

Work location

Work model: On-site

Southwest State Street, Ankeny, Polk County, Iowa, 50023, United States

Ankeny, Iowa

Key Responsibilities

check_circlePerform DNA extraction, quantitation, normalization, and capillary electrophoresis
check_circleScreen and sample items of evidence and accession DNA database samples
check_circleDocument testing results, prepare reports, and testify in court
check_circleConvert and electronically store case reports and maintain laboratory inventory
check_circlePrepare reagents, record cooler temperatures, and manage biohazard waste
check_circleTriage laboratory submissions and communicate with stakeholders regarding case status
check_circleOperate analytical laboratory instrumentation for robotic sampling and DNA processing

Requirements

verifiedAssociate's degree in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or related field
verifiedBachelor's or advanced degree in scientific discipline
verifiedValid Iowa Driver's License
verifiedPass comprehensive background investigation
verifiedAbility to travel and stay away from home overnight
verifiedE-Verify work authorization

Nice to Have

Candidates are encouraged to attach a cover letter, transcripts, and resume within the NEOGOV application.

Benefits & Perks

check_circleVacation accruals starting day one with yearly rollovercheck_circleUnlimited sick leave accrualcheck_circleNine paid holidays per yearcheck_circleHealth insurance with state paying over 90% of premiumsFree dental coverage for single and affordable family coverage with vision discount

Skills, education and keywords

Skills: Dna Analysis, Photography, Crime Scene, Latent Fingerprint Development, Firearms.

Education: Associate's degree with emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or related field required; Bachelor's or advanced degree in scientific disciplines also acceptable.

Frequently asked questions about Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch

What does a Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch do?expand_more

Day-to-day, the Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch will perform dna extraction, quantitation, normalization, and capillary electrophoresis; screen and sample items of evidence and accession dna database samples; document testing results, prepare reports, and testify in court; and convert and electronically store case reports and maintain laboratory inventory.

What are the requirements for this Forensic Science Technician role?expand_more

State of Iowa - Executive Branch is looking for candidates who meet the following requirements: Associate's degree in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or related field; Bachelor's or advanced degree in scientific discipline; Valid Iowa Driver's License; Pass comprehensive background investigation; Ability to travel and stay away from home overnight; and E-Verify work authorization.

Where is the Forensic Science Technician role at State of Iowa - Executive Branch located?expand_more

Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch is based in Southwest State Street, Ankeny, Polk County, Iowa, 50023, United States. This is a on-site role.

Is this Forensic Science Technician job remote, hybrid, or on-site?expand_more

State of Iowa - Executive Branch has listed this Forensic Science Technician role as on-site.

How much experience is required for this Forensic Science Technician role?expand_more

Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch typically requires 0.5+ years of relevant experience at the entry level level.

What skills do you need for the Forensic Science Technician role at State of Iowa - Executive Branch?expand_more

Key skills for Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch include Dna Analysis; Photography; Crime Scene; Latent Fingerprint Development; and Firearms.

What education is required for Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch?expand_more

Educational requirements for this role: Associate's degree with emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or related field required; and Bachelor's or advanced degree in scientific disciplines also acceptable.

What category does the Forensic Science Technician role belong to?expand_more

Forensic Science Technician at State of Iowa - Executive Branch is part of the scientific & qa job category on Recrutus.