Posting Details
The New Mexico Department of Public Safety Forensic Laboratory is an accredited forensic laboratory that provides forensic services to over 300 law enforcement agencies and judicial partners throughout New Mexico. Scientists provide analysis, reports, and testimony in the disciplines of DNA/Biology, Firearms/Tool Marks, Latent Prints and Chemistry (controlled substances and ignitable liquids). The Forensic Laboratory Bureau consists of laboratories in Santa Fe, Las Cruces, and Hobbs. Our mission is to provide unbiased scientific analysis for federal, state, local and tribal agencies.
Why does the job exist?
Criminal Forensic Scientist - Chemistry. This position performs analysis of criminal evidence to identify (or exclude) controlled substances and reports findings to clients. The position independently classifies, analyzes, and identifies the contents of the evidence. The position routinely testifies in court as an expert witness. Testimony includes actions taken during analysis, the results and conclusions reached through the analysis, laboratory policies, quality control measures, laboratory accreditation, and how evidence is received and handled in the laboratory. The position also conducts peer review of chemistry cases worked by other scientists. In this way, the position supports the justice system by providing timely, accurate, and effective information.
How does it get done?
- Upholding ethical standards and integrity
- Safely and securely handling criminal evidence
- Preparing samples for analysis using instrumental techniques such as GC-MS, FTIR, HPLC, and GC-IRD.
- Documenting steps followed in the analysis process using a thorough note-taking process.
- Producing formal reports that present the scientist's results and conclusions.
- Providing expert witness testimony in courts of law throughout the State of New Mexico.
- Performing QA/QC to assure quality analysis, evidence integrity, and to maintain accreditation standards.
- Participating in continued proficiency testing and education in Forensic Chemistry
Other duties can include ordering supplies/consumables, performing regular instrument maintenance, assisting with external quality assessments related to accreditation, conducting controlled substance inventory, maintaining a professional work environment focused on teamwork, excellent customer service, and exemplary conduct. Travel is required for court appearances across New Mexico and may be required for temporary duties at other sites (such as training).
Who are the customers?
Forensic Laboratory staff, Law Enforcement Agencies, Criminal Justice Agencies, and New Mexico citizens.
Ideal Candidate
Forensic Laboratory staff, Law Enforcement Agencies, Criminal Justice Agencies, and New Mexico citizens.
Minimum Qualification
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education.
Employment Requirements
Employment is subject to a pre-employment background investigation and fingerprinting in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules and regulations; and is conditional pending results. Continued employment is contingent upon remaining felony free, per Section 5.12.1.1 of the Criminal Justice Information Systems Security Policy.
In addition, the selected candidate must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a current Defensive Driving Certificate from the State of New Mexico; or pass and receive the Defensive Driving Certificate within six (6) months of date of hire.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a forensic laboratory setting; exposure to chemicals and biological fluids; statewide travel in car and/or small aircraft will be required when needed. Work under stressful situations with strict deadlines. Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.; frequent walking, standing, sitting and bending; and exposure to noise from equipment and instruments utilized in the laboratory is required.
Supplemental Information
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Agency Contact Information: William Watson, 505-470-1276 Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
Bargaining Unit Position
This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
