Title: Forensic Evidence Supervisor - Evidence Receiving - Western Laboratory - CF412

State Role Title: Forensic Science Specialist II

Hiring Range: $68,622

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Department of Forensic Science

Location: Western Lab

Agency Website: https://dfs.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a qualified individual to supervise the day-to-day operations of the Evidence Receiving section, to include evidence handling and performing building security duties, at the Western Laboratory located in Roanoke, VA. The laboratory’s operating hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. The position works closely with the Evidence Receiving Program Manager and administrative staff.

Primary duties include accomplishing department objectives by supervising evidence receiving staff and organizing and monitoring work processes. Duties include conducting evidence inventories and reconciliation; performing internal evidence audits, conducting monthly inspections within the section, providing evidence submission training to law enforcement agencies, maintaining accurate chain of custody documentation, monitoring storage temperatures, conducting an initial review of each request for laboratory examination, and inspecting each evidence container from user agencies. Duties also include receiving, storing, transferring, and returning evidence from user agencies, forensic examiners and other DFS laboratories as well as maintaining the physical security of the evidence and the building occupants. Additional duties include initiating and 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

• Thorough knowledge of the documentation of chain of custody with evidence, proper evidence handling practices and storage methods, and inventory and record keeping procedures
• Knowledge of standard laboratory safety practices when handling evidence
• Work experience with computers to include word processing and data entry
• Proficient with Microsoft Office 365, to include Word and Outlook, and other computer software programs
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing and provide effective customer service to both internal and external customers
• Ability to work independently, prioritize work and meet deadlines
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality when processing of confidential records, keep accurate records, prepare written documents and record keeping procedures
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds, with or without accommodations
• Valid driver’s license

Additional Considerations

• Certification by the International Association for Property and Evidence (IAPE) as a Certified Property and Evidence Specialist
• Experience providing supervision in a professional setting
• Evidence management experience working in an evidence room handling, packaging and storing evidence
• Knowledge of documenting the chain of custody
• Knowledge of and experience in forensic science, crime scene processing, forensic lab capabilities and property and evidence experience
• Work experience conducting and reconciling evidence inventories utilizing inventory control systems
conducting evidence audits and reconciling audit discrepancies
• Work experience in physical security and emergency response
• Experience facilitating Evidence Handling training

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 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.