Criminalist I - FS/Trace Evidence - #1690511

The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is searching to fill a Criminalist position in our Forensic Services - Trace Department. The candidates must have a bachelor's degree, integrity, and a basic understanding of scientific principles involved in primer gunshot residue (P-GSR) analysis.
General Responsibility
To successfully complete training in all aspects of primer gunshot residue analysis (P-GSR). Conduct P-GSR analysis, utilizing a scanning electron microscope on evidence submitted to SLED. Investigate and participate in the detection and prosecution of crimes to ensure the safety and security of the citizens of SC

Specific Duties

• Successfully complete P-GSR training module, to include a competency test and a mock court. Analyze P-GSR evidence using defined protocols, while maintaining a required monthly case output. Interpret data and prepare formal written reports. Provide technical case reviews of P-GSR reports. Successfully complete yearly proficiency tests. Utilize the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to properly document all case-related information and communications.
• Maintain a professional level of communication at all times. Effectively interact with agency personnel and members of the law enforcement/legal community. Participate in pre-trial conferences and respond appropriately to subpoenas. Render expert testimony by impartially answering questions and conveying findings in a professional, courteous, and concise manner that is understood by both the court and the jury. Complete and submit all administrative paperwork in a timely manner.
• Conduct routine maintenance, repair and calibration of assigned instrumentation and document appropriately. Perform other departmental duties including, but not limited to, research, validation, lab cleaning, administrative duties and any other responsibilities as directed by the departmental supervisor.
• Maintain certification as a commissioned law enforcement officer as required by the SCCJA.

• A bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related scientific field with courses in general, organic and analytical chemistry from an accredited university OR a bachelor's degree in forensic science from a FEPAC accredited program within 90 days of the posting date.
• Must successfully complete a prescribed legal training course at the SC Criminal Justice Academy.
• The employee must have the ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of work.
• Must have the ability to work independently, set priorities, maintain accurate records, analyze and interpret data, manage multiple tasks efficiently, establish work priorities and develop sound conclusions from analyses.
• Must possess critical thinking skills, demonstrate analytical and deductive reasoning, exhibit problem solving skills, show extreme attention to detail and possess excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Must have the ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of their job.
• Must demonstrate skills in recording and maintaining detailed records.
• Must have the ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.
• Must understand the restrictions that exist while under subpoena.
• Must meet all of the requirements of a certified law enforcement officer (Class 3) commissioned by the state of SC.
• Statewide travel, in all weather conditions, is required.
• Overnight travel may be necessary.
• Attendance at external training events may be required.
• Periodic on call status is required.
• Employee must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• There is no residency requirement for this position. However, the employee is expected to report to the Forensic Services Laboratory in Columbia, SC during normal business hours Monday-Friday (8:30am-5:00pm)

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information
SLED offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs

A copy of the Division’s EEOP Utilization Report is available at www.sled.sc.gov

Supplemental questions are considered part of the official application. Any misrepresentation of yourself may be grounds for disqualification

Conditional selection based on candidate education, training, experience, oral interviews and clearance of background investigation.