Data Scientist Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary

The work location for these positions will be reassigned to the new BCA Mankato Regional Office when it opens in 2027. The Mankato Office is currently projected to open in May 2027. Prior to the new facility opening, the work location will be at the BCA headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota to complete necessary onboarding and training.

This announcement may be used multiple positions at the Trainee-Forensic Scientist 1 classification in the Digital and Multimedia Evidence (DME) section. 

This is an excellent opportunity to learn and train alongside experienced professional Digital Multimedia Evidence examiners. Join the talented, engaged, and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota and making a difference in the lives of Minnesotans. The BCA Digital and Multimedia Evidence (DME) section is responsible for retrieving and preserving digital evidence related to criminal cases. The DME section utilizes forensic methods and tools to extract and parse retrieved data into an easy-to-consume format to assist agencies with examination of their evidence. Items of digital evidence may include but are not limited to: computers, cellular phones, tablets, cameras, hard drives, flash drives, SD cards, digital discs, digital video recorders, gaming systems, and more.

The individual in this position is required to successfully complete training in the discipline, including required court testimony training, and become proficient in all job duties. The individual in this position must have the ability to conduct examinations of digital evidence after completing all required specialized training and competency tests in the discipline.

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/hour. 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 Digital Multimedia Laboratory 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:

1. Foundation and application of forensic procedures pertinent to the forensic discipline in which the trainee is employed.
2. Data analysis and interpretation.
3. Courtroom testimony.
4. Quality assurance as it pertains to forensic science.
5. Chain of custody, evidence handling, examination, and documentation.
6. 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 early 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:

• Evidence intake
• Drug chemistry
• Digital evidence examination
• DNA analysis
• Crime scene response
• 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.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

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. PLEASE COMBINE YOUR RESUME AND TRANSCRIPTS INTO A SINGLE ATTACHMENT AND UPLOAD TO THE RESUME SECTION OF THE APPLICATION. 

1. A bachelor's or advanced degree in Computer/Digital Forensics from an accredited college or university or equivalent which includes required digital forensic coursework. Note: unofficial college transcripts are required with resume. 
2. Excellent oral and written communication skills in order to prepare reports of examination results and conclusions and provide court-room testimony.
3. Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities.

Applicants that meet the above qualifications will be further evaluated on the following:

Understanding of computer hardware sufficient to physically preserve evidence and maintain chain of custody. 

Preferred Qualifications

1. In-depth experience with Windows operating systems, Mac, and Linux.
2. In-depth understanding with computer networking concept and terminology including TCP/IP networking.
3. A+ Certification or related Microsoft certification.
4. Experience with computer forensic software such as Encase, Access data’s Forensic Tool Kit, CelleBrite.
5. Relevant digital forensic certification such as (but not limited to) EnCe, ACE, CFCE, CFE, CCO, CCPA, and etc.
6. Knowledge of the ANAB Forensic Laboratory Accreditation Program.

Physical Requirements

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.

Additional Requirements

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:

• Criminal history
• Reference check
• Fingerprinting (MNJIS/CJIS)
• Psychological evaluation
• Driver’s license check
• Education verification
• Drug / Cannabis testing
• 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.

When you bring your career to the State of Minnesota, the work you do affects the quality of life of millions of Minnesotans. From those who shape policy, to those who keep us safe, preserve our environment, or take care of our most vulnerable populations, we take our responsibilities to the public seriously. We need diverse and talented individuals – like you – to serve our great state and build a better Minnesota.