DNA Laboratory Forensic Chemist IP

Come join our team! Prince George's County Government provides a dynamic and inclusive workplace where employees can thrive, learn, and grow across its 30 diverse agencies, all dedicated to serving the County's residents with essential resources and services. Nestled just minutes away from Washington, DC, Prince George's County combines urban vibrancy with serene surroundings, offering an ideal setting to live, work, and enjoy life. The Prince George's County Police Department is currently seeking highly qualified applicants to fill a DNA Laboratory Forensic Chemist I, (Forensic Chemist 1) , grade P20 , in the Forensic Science Division . About the Position This is entry level professional technical forensic science work. Incumbents are assigned to the forensic DNA analysis laboratory, where they perform routine methods and techniques involved in the preservation, examination, handling, and comparative analysis of items of evidence collected in criminal investigations. Routine work assignments are performed under close supervision by supervisory level Forensic Chemist and in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures, Federal and State guidelines, and accreditation standards. Incumbents are evaluated based upon their ability to analyze, identify, and document evidence and to offer effective case related testimony at criminal court proceedings. Such incumbents prepare summary findings and materials for use in testifying as an expert witness in criminal court proceedings. Work performed in the DNA Laboratory involves potential contact with biohazards including body fluids, which could carry contagious disease, and possible exposure to airborne particles, as well as toxic and/or caustic chemicals. The work is performed in both office and laboratory settings and requires special measures to safeguard workers against injury. Incumbents regularly use face masks, protective clothing, and nitrile gloves when collecting or examining evidence. This is a professional position responsible for conducting serological and DNA analysis on physical evidence submitted by law enforcement personnel. About the Agency The Prince George's County Police Department is the fourth largest law enforcement agency in Maryland, providing a full range of law enforcement services to County residents and business owners. Their mission is to work in partnership with citizens of Prince George's County towards providing a safe environment and enhancing the quality of life. Today, the Prince George's County Police Department serves over 900,000 residents and has an authorized strength of 1800 officers and 300 civilians. Completes all required Serology and DNA job training. Assists members of the DNA Laboratory with case file management and evidence management. Ensures quality and safety regulations and standards are followed at all times. Completes outside proficiency tests twice per year. Conducts serological analysis on physical evidence to identify body fluids and performs Short Tandem Repeat (STR) DNA analysis on evidence according to established protocols, documents results and conclusions in written reports, and performs peer review of other analysts' reports once trained. Conducts quality control checks of reagents and equipment and assists with laboratory cleaning. Evaluates CODIS eligibility of DNA profiles and assists the CODIS Administrator with matches. Testifies in court as required. Performs other tasks and duties as assigned, which may not be specifically listed in the position description, however, are within the general occupational category and responsibility level typically associated with the employee's class of work. Minimum Qualifications Candidates must meet all minimum qualifications listed below to be eligible foradditionalconsideration: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Chemistry, Biology, Forensic Science, or other Physical Science including course work totaling twelve (12) semester credit hours covering each of the subject areas of Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, and Population Genetics or Statistics. •Transcripts must be attached to verify eligibility• Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in chemistry, biology, forensic science, or other related fields of natural science. Experience in how to accurately identify body fluids, extract DNA, conduct DNA Analysis, and perform mixture interpretation. Experience testifying in local and/or federal court system as an expert witness. CODIS trained and a current CODIS user. Knowledge and experience with EZ1 Advanced XL; Quantifiler TrioTM DNA Quantitation Kit, QuantStudio 5 Real-Time PCR System; Veriti Thermal Cycler; 3500XL Genetic Analyzer; GlobalfilerTM® PCR Amplification Kit; and STRmix probabilistic genotyping. Experience conducting forensic DNA analysis. Experience handling evidence in an accredited forensic laboratory.

EACH APPLICATION MUST INCLUDE INFORMATION THAT CLEARLY DEMONSTRATES THE ABOVE QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION.

Salary Range Transparency:

The salary range listed in this announcement reflects the offer range for this position. Offers made within this range are based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Tentative Interview Dates:

May 2026 . Please note that interview dates are subject to change and only selected candidates will receive confirmation and additional details.

Job Location :

1739 Brightseat Road, Landover, MD 20785

Conditions of Employment :

? Upon selection, the candidate must (where applicable): Possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Pass a federal background check for CODIS access. Employment is contingent on obtaining and maintaining access to CODIS. Be willing to work assigned shift work (days/evenings/weekends/holidays). Meet all training and performance standards and demonstrate proficiency as required by the agency. Wear and use agency protective apparel and equipment in the performance of their assigned duties. Successfully pass preemployment checks which may include reference checks, background investigations, and drug screenings. Be willing and able to serve as an essential employee. Essential employees are expected to report during standard or non-standard hours as operations necessitate, or during emergencies. Essential employees are expected to report or remain at work when other County employees are granted Administrative Leave. Work Environment Forensic Chemists complete the majority of their work within laboratories and may also spend time in an administrative/office setting or court room. Accountability Statement The incumbent in this position is authorized to carry out those duties and responsibilities in accordance with the established performance standards and is subject to reporting and justifying task outcomes to those above him/her in the Department's chain of command. The incumbent in this position treats all information, administrative or operational, as strictly confidential, not to be disseminated in any form unless expressly authorized.