Title: Forensic Evidence Specialist I - Evidence Receiving - Central Laboratory - CF280

State Role Title: Forensic Science Specialist I

Hiring Range: $54,012

Pay Band: 3

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 is experiencing significant growth and is currently constructing a new, state-of-the-art facility in Hanover County. Upon completion, the facility will consolidate the Central Laboratory, Director’s Office, Administrative Offices, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner—currently located in Richmond. The transition is expected in the first quarter of 2026.

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified individual to perform evidence handling and building security duties at the Central Laboratory in Richmond, Virginia. Normal work hours are 40 hours per week within the hours of 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. The position works closely with the laboratory’s technical and administrative staff.

Primary duties include receiving, storing, transferring, and returning evidence for/to user agencies, forensic examiners and other DFS laboratories as well as maintaining access control within the building and property. Duties also include initiating/maintaining the chain of custody for evidence using a computerized database, maintaining security of the evidence, responding to telephone and personal inquiries concerning laboratory capabilities, evidence collection, and submission and return procedures. The incumbent will be required to adhere to a dress code and wear Department-approved clothing.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience conducting data entry into computer systems
• Experience reviewing/verifying data for accuracy and completeness
• Experience using computers and computer applications such as Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Knowledge of standard safety practices when handling evidence
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds, with or without accommodations
• Possess a valid driver’s license
  

Additional Considerations

• Certified Property and Evidence Specialist or completion of an Evidence Management Training course through a recognized Evidence Management Program
• Work experience or knowledge initiating and documenting the chain of custody of evidence
• Work experience processing and maintaining confidential records and materials
• Work experience or knowledge with handling and packaging of evidence
• Work experience conducting inventories with inventory control systems and conducting independent audits with evidence
• Work experience utilizing access control to maintain physical security
• Knowledge of a Forensic Laboratory Scientific capabilities concerning evidence
• Work experience submitting evidence to a Forensic Laboratory
• Experience working in a Law Enforcement Property and Evidence Room
  

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 and 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.