Apprentice Forensic Science Technician Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Job Summary
This position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS), Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL). The mission of DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services through best practices and the best available technology; focusing on unbiased science and transparency, to enhance public safety and health.
Forensic Science Technicians are responsible for assisting with technical laboratory work, which includes casework, accreditation, quality assurance, and control programs, within the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
Duties and Responsibilities
As a technician, performs a variety of operations in a laboratory setting, e.g., basic testing and troubleshooting for casework, and accreditation; responds to requests from the various Forensic Science Laboratory Units to support quality assurance records in accordance with laboratory, accreditation and statutory requirements; assists with audit preparation and administration; demonstrates continuous efforts to improve operations; and works cooperatively and jointly to provide seamless customer service.
Applies non-routine or specialized and challenging procedures as instructed, and takes corrective action; accepts and resolves referrals of abnormal or unusual specimens; establishes and monitors quality control procedures and coordinates the laboratory program with overall quality control program of the laboratory. Utilizes experience and/or training to assist with the day-to-day processes within the Forensic Science Laboratory; and receives comprehensive training in reagent preparation, laboratory decontamination, instrument setup and troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, temperature monitoring, materials and evidence handling and storage, documentation, and report writing.
Qualifications and Education
Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. Or
Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, one (1) year of specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.
Licensure and Certification
None
Work Conditions/Environment
The work is performed in an office and laboratory. The office setting is when preparing documentation, and the laboratory setting is during the testing and analysis phase.
The incumbent may be exposed to hazardous materials, toxic substance, blood borne pathogens, and electric current and electrostatic discharge and is required to follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing including facial masks, safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, etc.
Other Significant Facts
Tour of Duty: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0401-09
Promotion Potential: No known promotion potential
Duration of Appointment: Career Service - Term Appointment (Not-to-Exceed 13-months)
Collective Bargaining Unit: This position is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) Local R3-05, and subject to pay an agency service fee (union dues) through direct payroll deduction.
Position Designation: This position has been deemed Safety Sensitive under the guidelines of the DC Personnel Manual. Incumbents of this position are subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC personnel regulations. Accordingly, you must successfully pass a criminal background and drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment and will be subject to periodic criminal background checks and drug tests for the duration of your tenure.
Essential Designation: This position has been designated as Emergency and acceptance of this offer confirms you agree to adhere to the policies in sections 1271 and 1274 of DPM Chapter 12, regarding essential/emergency employees. As an essential employee, you will be required to either report to work, stay at work, or telework (if directed to do so) during a declared emergency or during a period of non-emergency where your duties have been deemed as critical District government functions/operations. You may be required to perform other duties outside of your position description during a period of a declared emergency (such as manual labor, shelter services, etc.).
Residency Preference: Applicants claiming Residency Preference will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.
EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.