Working Title: Drug Chemistry Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1 or Forensic Scientist 2
Job Class: Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1 or Forensic Scientist 2
Agency: Public Safety Dept
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Job ID: 96124
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Location: Various - See job summary section
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Telework Eligible: Yes
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Full/Part Time: Full-Time
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Regular/Temporary: Trainee: Temporary, Forensic Scientist 2: Permanent
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Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers and DPS employees eligible to bid. Eligible bidders (permanent, classified employees in the Forensic Scientist 2 classification) should apply through self-service and confirm their bid by emailing [email protected] by 11:59 PM 08/14/2026.
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Date Posted: 08/08/2026
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Closing Date: 09/02/2026
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Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Public Safety Dept / Public Safety-MAPE
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Division/Unit: BCA Lab / BCA LAB CHEMISTRY 3
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Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
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Days of Work: Monday - Friday
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Travel Required: Yes - Up to 25% of the time
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Salary Range: Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1: $28.75 / hourly; $60,030 / annually, Forensic Scientist 2: $35.30 - $52.35 / hourly; $73,706 - $109,307 / annually
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Classified Status: Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1: Non-Status; Forensic Scientist 2: Classified
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Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
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FLSA Status: Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1: Nonexempt; Forensic Scientist 2: Exempt - Professional
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Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1: No; Forensic Scientist 2: Yes
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
The work location for these positions will be reassigned to the new BCA Mankato Regional Office when it opens in spring 2027. Prior to the new facility opening, the work location will be at BCA headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota to complete necessary onboarding and training.
This announcement will be used to fill three vacant positions at either the Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1 or Forensic Scientist 2 classification in the Drug Chemistry Section of the BCA Forensic Science Services. The classification level of the position is based on the selected applicant’s qualifications and responses to the interview questions.
- Trainee - Forensic Scientist 1, salary $28.75/hour
- Forensic Scientist 2, salary range $35.30 - $52.35 / hourly; $73,706 - $109,307 annually
This full-time position will provide evaluation, examination, analysis, and data interpretation for evidence collected from criminal investigations to inform and support the criminal justice system. These activities will be conducted within the Drug Chemistry Section of the MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Forensic Science Services. They include the use of a variety of scientific techniques and instrumentation to analyze items of evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies for the presence or absence of controlled substance. These activities will be conducted in adherence to the agency policies and procedures in a manner that embodies the mission, vision, and values of the MN BCA. These positions will also participate in the training, evaluation, continuing education, and quality assurance activities needed for the delivery of accurate and reliable results to agency stakeholders, including expert witness testimony. Following successful completion of the necessary training programs and establishment within the drug chemistry discipline, these positions may be eligible to participate in the crime scene processing training series for inclusion in the Crime Scene Response Program.
Additional information for the Trainee – Forensic Scientist 1 classification:
The duration of the training program will not exceed one year with a set salary of $28.75/hr. Professional level experience in a laboratory or advanced level degrees may lessen the length of this time period, but satisfactory performance will govern when the trainee is appointed as a Forensic Scientist 1.
Training will be in the Drug Chemistry discipline of the MN BCA Forensic Science Services and persons hired as a Forensic Scientist Trainee will typically be trained in topics including but not limited to:
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Foundation and application of forensic procedures pertinent to the forensic discipline in which the trainee is employed.
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Data analysis and interpretation.
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Courtroom testimony.
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Quality assurance as it pertains to forensic science.
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Chain of custody, evidence handling, examination, and documentation.
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Criminal court procedures and practices with special reference to rules of evidence.
Trainees will work with experienced scientists within the applicable section and throughout the BCA FSS during the training program.
Upon successful performance at the Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1 classification (maximum of one year) the employee will be appointed to the position of Forensic Scientist 1 and compensated within the salary range of $30.76 - $45.26/hourly: $64,227-$94,503/annually. There will be a six-month probationary period.
Additional information about the BCA Mankato Regional Office:
The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is expanding its presence in southern Minnesota and are excited to announce the development of a 56,000 square foot regional office and forensic laboratory in Mankato, MN. Construction began in November 2025, with the facility expected to be fully operational by May 2027. This modern facility will bring together a team of agents, forensic scientists, support staff, and a crime scene response team.
The BCA forensic science laboratory will provide a range of forensic services, including:
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Evidence intake
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Drug chemistry
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Digital evidence examination
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DNA analysis
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Crime scene response
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Other forensic technologies such as: National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) for firearm analysis and Rapid DNA
The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.
PLEASE COMBINE YOUR RESUME AND TRANSCRIPTS INTO A SINGLE ATTACHMENT AND UPLOAD TO THE RESUME SECTION OF THE APPLICATION. TO BE MINIMALLY QUALIFIED FOR THIS POSITION, APPLICANTS MUST MEET THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS BELOW AND ATTACH UNOFFICIAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS AND A RESUME TO THEIR APPLICATION.
Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1
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A bachelor's or advanced degree in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent.
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Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.
Forensic Scientist 2
1. A Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent.
2. Two years full-time professional level experience as a Seized Drug Analyst in a forensic laboratory.
3. Experience testifying in a court of law as an expert witness in Seized Drug analysis.
4. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
5. Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.
NOTE: APPLICANTS WILL BE AUTOMATICALLY REJECTED IF TRANSCRIPTS ARE NOT ATTACHED TO THE APPLICATION.
Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1
1. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent.
2. Demonstrated knowledge and use of laboratory quality assurance procedures and evidence handling.
3. Experience in a forensic laboratory gained through an internship or work experience; or work experience performing examinations similar to those conducted in a forensic or analytical laboratory.
4. Experience with standard computer software (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets).
Forensic Scientist 2
1. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a physical or life science such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, forensic science or equivalent.
2. Two years full-time professional level experience as a Seized Drugs Analyst in an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited forensic laboratory.
3. Operational knowledge of the ANAB Forensic Laboratory Accreditation Program.
4. Discipline specific certification such as the American Board of Criminalists (ABC) certification.
5. Experience with instrumentation including but not limited to Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectrometer, High Performance Liquid Chromatograph, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer, Raman Spectrometer.
6. Experience with standard computer software (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets).
Requires occasionally moving and transporting 50 pound items and frequently moving and transporting objects such as heavy tools and heavy file boxes. This job may require positioning self to move to a significant degree across rough terrain or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.
A criminal history background check and reference check will be completed on the prospective employee. Additional components to the background check for this position will include the following:
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Criminal history
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Reference check
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Fingerprinting (MNJIS/CJIS)
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Psychological evaluation
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Driver’s license check
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Education verification
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Drug / Cannabis testing
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SEMA4 records, personnel file and employment records (current and former state employees only)
The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.
Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected]. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
If you have questions about this position, contact Madison Markgraf at [email protected]
To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Madison Markgraf at [email protected].
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
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Connection with their coworkers and communities
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Opportunities for personal and professional growth
As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
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Diabetes care
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Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
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Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
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Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
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Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
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Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
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Training, classes, and professional development
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Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)
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A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
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Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
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Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] and let us know the support you need. For accommodations or questions about accessibility specifically relating to this job announcement, please email the Affirmative Action Division at [email protected] or call 651-539-1875 (voice) or using your preferred telecommunications relay provider.
