Forensic Scientist, Crime Scene Unit, Grade 20/22/25

About This Role

Forensic Scientists detect, collect, handle, test, and preserve physical evidence and latent prints from crime scenes. The work involves responding to various crime scenes, including property crimes, motor vehicles, and major crime scenes. This role requires technical competence in advanced crime scene analysis, strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience working in an ISO-accredited environment.

Responsibilities

• Respond to crime scenes
• Collect, process, and preserve physical evidence
• Measure and diagram crime scenes
• Photograph crime and accident scenes
• Write reports concerning actions taken
• Maintain accurate notes and records
• Work 10-hour days, rotating shifts and weekends
• Be subject to on-call status

Requirements

• Consent for collection of a DNA sample at the time of hire
• Pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the MCPD (6-8 week process)
• Pass a medical examination and a drug/alcohol screen
• Work holidays, weekends, and shifts during days, evenings, or midnights
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in a natural, physical, or forensic science
• Possession and maintenance of a valid Class “C” (or equivalent) driver’s license from the applicant’s state of residence when required for job-related duties
• Obtain certification by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (COMAR 10.10.09.01) to analyze CDS as a Certified Chemist after the training period
• Maintain compliance with any certification and training requirements mandated by law and/or verifying organization

Experience:

• Forensic Scientist I: entry-level position; no relevant experience required
• Forensic Scientist II: two (2) years of professional experience involving detection, collection, testing/analysis, and maintenance of the chain of custody and either security of crime scene physical evidence and latent prints or experience in laboratory support
• Forensic Scientist III: four (4) years of professional experience involving detection, collection, testing/analysis, and maintenance of the chain of custody and either security of crime scene physical evidence and latent prints or experience in laboratory support

Nice to have:

• Forensic Scientist I: experience working within the Forensic Sciences in an accredited forensic laboratory
• Forensic Scientist II & III: experience collecting and processing crime scene evidence
• Forensic Scientist II & III: experience collecting and processing latent prints
• Forensic Scientist II & III: experience photographing crime scenes