Title: Forensic Laboratory Specialist III - Toxicology - Division of Technical Services - CF224
State Role Title: Laboratory & Research Spec II
Hiring Range: $44,500 - $49,500
Pay Band: 4
Agency: Department of Forensic Science
Agency Website: https://dfs.virginia.gov/
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
The Virginia Department of Forensic Science has recently moved to a new, state-of-the-art facility in Hanover County. The facility houses staff from the Central Laboratory, Division of Technical Services, Director’s Office, Administrative Offices, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified full-time Forensic Laboratory Specialist III to join the Division of Technical Services within the Toxicology Program Area. The successful candidate will be responsible for receiving, storing, and performing immunoassay drug screening on non-evidentiary blood samples. This role supports the DFS Quality Assurance (QA) Program through the preparation and maintenance of critical reagents, appropriate operation of laboratory instrumentation, and diligent safeguarding of specimen integrity.
Additional responsibilities may include supporting the Toxicology discipline, assisting with Evidence Receiving functions, and providing support for other departmental needs as directed/coordinated by the Toxicology Program Manager.
Minimum Qualifications
• Knowledge of basic theoretical principles and applications of the instrumentation and methodologies used to preserve and analyze toxicology samples
• Experience working in a scientific laboratory environment, including standard laboratory equipment, techniques, laboratory safety procedures, and operating and maintaining laboratory instrumentation
• Experience preparing solutions and reagents for use in a laboratory setting
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to maintain accurate records, analyze and interpret data, follow written protocols and oral instructions, manage multiple tasks efficiently, establish work priorities, and independently perform routine duties
• Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation
Additional Considerations
• Experience performing and documenting QA procedures
• Experience handling biological fluids in a forensic or clinical toxicology laboratory
• Experience working in a laboratory environment performing qualitative and quantitative alcohol or drug testing
• Experience using laboratory information management software
• Experience working in an accredited forensic science laboratory
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.
All applications must be submitted electronically through this website by 11:55 p.m. on the position’s closing date. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand‑delivered applications and résumés will not be accepted. Interview consideration is based solely on the information provided in the application, résumé, and any required transcripts (if applicable).
Applicants who need accommodations during the application and/or interview process may contact the Human Resource Office at 804-786-0150 or dfshumanresource@dfs.virginia.gov. Auxiliary Aids and services are available upon request for individuals with disabilities.
The Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a V3 Virginia Values Veterans certified organization. We strictly prohibit 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. We welcome and encourage applications from Veterans, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni.
DFS does not provide sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and must maintain such authorization for the duration of their employment without the need for employer sponsorship or a STEM extension.
Background Investigation: Selected candidate(s) will be required to successfully complete a background investigation, including a fingerprint‑based criminal history check. Candidate(s) must also provide a DNA sample via buccal swab (saliva) and successfully pass a drug test. Reference checks will be conducted and will include contact with current and previous supervisors.
Employment Eligibility Verification: DFS now uses E-Verify+, a streamlined system that integrates the Form I-9 process with employment eligibility verification to electronically confirm identity and work authorization.
Contact Information
Name: Amanda Collum
Phone: 804-588-4010
Email: amanda.collum@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.