Title: Forensic Laboratory Specialist III - Digital Evidence - Central Laboratory - WF178 (wage)
State Role Title: Laboratory and Research Specialist II
Hiring Range: $21.50 - $24.00
Pay Band: 4
Agency: Department of Forensic Science
Location: Central Lab
Agency Website: www.dfs.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
The Virginia Department of Forensic Science has experienced record growth and is currently in construction of a new state-of-the-art facility in Hanover County. Once completed, this Facility will house staff from the Central Laboratory, Director’s Office, Administrative Offices, and the Office of the Medical Examiner, currently located in Richmond. The transition is anticipated for First Quarter 2026.
The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified individual to work part-time assisting examiners in the Digital Evidence Section of the Central Laboratory in Richmond, VA. Work hours will be no more than 29 hours per week within the hours of 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
The successful candidate will assist the Forensic Scientists in the research, handling, documentation, preservation, and acquisition of a diversity of digital and multimedia evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies. Additional duties include uses “state of the art” knowledge of methodologies, techniques and instrumentation related to the examination of electronic information stored on a variety of computer/mobile/video/image devices and data storage media. Assists with support functions such as communicating with user agencies, management of consumables inventory, and quality control of critical equipment.
This is a wage position limited to working no more than 1,500 hours per agency during the 12-month period of May 1 – April 30, regardless of the hire date. The wage employment period resets on May 1 of the following year. All wage employees are limited to working no more than 29 hours per week on average over the 12-month period. This wage position offers no state benefits.
Minimum Qualifications
- Basic knowledge of principles of digital evidence examination
- Knowledge of criminal court procedures and rules of evidence
- Experience accurately recording and maintaining records, following written protocols and oral instructions, establishing work priorities, and independently performing routine duties
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite programs, including Excel
- Ability to work independently, set priorities, work efficiently, keep accurate records, and to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing in a clear and concise manner
- Valid driver’s license or have other means of reliable transportation
Additional Considerations
- Working experience in an accredited forensic scientific laboratory using basic laboratory equipment, techniques, and laboratory safety procedures
- Experience of laboratory safety and quality assurance/quality control procedures
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
The Department of Forensic Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is V3 Virginia Values Veterans certified. The Department strictly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. Veterans, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
Applications for this position must be submitted electronically, through this website, no later than the position’s closing date stated in the announcement. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and resumes will not be accepted. Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application and/or resume and required transcripts (if applicable).
Applicants needing accommodations during the application and/or interview process may contact the Human Resource office at 804-786-0150 or dfshumanresource@dfs.virginia.gov for additional information. Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
DFS does not provide sponsorship; therefore, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.
Background Investigation: Selected candidate(s) must successfully pass a background investigation to include a fingerprint-based criminal history check. Selected candidate(s) must provide a DNA sample via a buccal swab (saliva sample) and successfully pass a drug test. Reference checks will be conducted to include contact with current/previous supervisors.
Employment Eligibility Verification: DFS will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
Contact Information
Name: Amanda Greene
Phone: 804-588-4163
Email: amanda.greene@dfs.virginia.gov
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.