Forensic Chemist I

Advertisement Closes 3/30/2026 (8:00 PM EDT) 26-01443 Forensic Chemist I Pay Grade14 Salary $50,000.00 Annually Employment Type

EXECUTIVE BRANCH

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FULL TIME

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ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY

| 18A | 40.0 HR/WK Click here for more details on state employment. Hiring Agency Justice & Public Safety Cabinet | Kentucky State Police Location 1001 West 5th Street London, KY 40743 USA Description Kentucky State Police is the premier, full-service law enforcement agency in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

With the highest level of professionalism and integrity the Kentucky State Police works to prevent, reduce,and deter crime and the fear of crime; enhance highway safety through education and enforcement; protect andsafeguard individual rights; and provide leadership, training, technical, and operational support to thecriminal justice community. A Forensic Chemist may be hired for Toxicology, Drug Chemistry, or Trace Analysis. Forensic Chemists inToxicology process blood and urine through a series of chemical and instrumental tests for DUI cases. ForensicChemists in Drug Chemistry analyze and report results on seized drug evidence using various chemical andinstrumental tests. Forensic Chemists in Trace Analysis will be trained to work several different disciplineswithin the Trace Analysis section. Due to the nature of Trace Analysis, evidence submissions may include items collected in suspected arsoncases, hairs, fibers, glass, paint chips, suspected gun-shot residue, and unknown specimens believed to besomething other than drugs. The Forensic Chemist Training Program lasts approximately one year and includes pertinent reading assignments,practical examinations on known specimens, a mock trial for testimony, and a competency test for eachdiscipline for which an analyst works cases. Upon successful completion of the training program, the newlytrained analyst will generally process casework under the direction of experienced analysts for a set periodof time.

Key Responsibilities:

Analyzes unknown and known substances submitted by law enforcement agencies to determine properties and identity. Receives specialized training in designated forensic disciplines. Compiles and reviews laboratory reports regarding analysis of submitted evidence. Maintains review of work-related literature and other documents. Provides testimony throughout the Commonwealth pertaining to forensic analysis and reports. Receives and releases evidence and is responsible for the security of such evidence until released. Maintains laboratory instrumentation. Responds to crime scenes and other work-related special details.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Attention to detail Strong written and verbal communication Ability to multi-task Strong problem solver If you are interested in a challenging yet rewarding career as a Kentucky State Police Forensic Chemist whereyou can make a positive difference in your local community we would love to review your application. Minimum Requirements

EDUCATION

Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related science field.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS

NONE Substitute

EDUCATION

for

EXPERIENCE

NONE Substitute

EXPERIENCE

for

EDUCATION

NONE

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

(AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE Working Conditions Incumbents in this classification will typically perform their job duties in a forensic laboratory setting. May have some contact with contagious diseases and/or body fluids or regular exposure to noxious odors, chemical substances, and biohazardous compounds, which may require the following of safety procedures. Regular handling of sharp surgical instruments. Probationary Period This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 12 months, except as provided in

KRS 18A.111.

If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Beverly Wagoner at beverly.wagoner@ky.gov . An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D