Performs analysis of controlled substance evidence. Responsible for independently collecting, classifying, identifying, and analyzing controlled substance evidence related to criminal investigations. Specialize in an area of expertise/scientific discipline. At DPS, the forensic scientist supports the NM law enforcement community in the investigation of crimes by receiving and maintaining physical evidence custody; analyzing evidence; preparing reports that document their findings; provide expert opinions in their scientific specialization to investigators; and provide expert witness testimony regarding their findings in a court of law.

THIS POSTING WILL BE USED FOR ONGOING RECRUITMENT AND MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME. APPLIANT LISTS MAY BE SCREENED MORE THAN ONCE.

• Producing formal reports that accurately identify and analyze physical evidence to determine their significance to the investigation.
• Presenting formal reports that accurately identify and analyze physical evidence to determine their significance to the investigation.
• Providing expert witness testimony regarding their findings in courts of law throughout the State of New Mexico.
• Performing QA/QC to assure quality analysis, evidence integrity, and maintain accreditation standards.
• Continue training to develop competency and proficiency in their area of specialization, specifically controlled substance analysis for this position, as required.

Law enforcement agencies, criminal justice agencies, courts and the citizens of NM

For Chemists, a bachelor's degree in Chemistry or in Biology or Forensic Science which must include a minimum of 20 credit hours of chemistry coursework. Four (4) years of experience working in a forensics laboratory performing scientific analysis of forensic evidence, including one (1) year independent case work analysis.

Completion of the hiring process is contingent upon successful completion of pre-employment screening process. Employment requires successful completion of post offer pre-employment physical. Pre-employment criminal background check is required and conditional pending results. Subject to a national fingerprint-based record checks within 30 days of assignment. Continued employment is contingent upon remaining felony free, per Section 5.12.1.1 of the Criminal Justice Information Systems Security Policy.,

State of New Mexico employees may be impacted by the Public Health Order dated December 19, 2022, which requires facilities licensed or certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ("CMS"), including all hospital types, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, hospice facilities and rehabilitation facilities, as well as assisted living facilities and adult day care settings, to adhere to all COVID-related requirements prescribed by CMS, including, but not limited to masking and staff vaccination.

Work is performed in a Forensic Laboratory setting; exposure to chemicals and biological fluids; statewide travel in car and/or small aircraft will be required when needed. Work under stressful situations with strict deadlines. Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.; frequent walking, standing, sitting and bending; and exposure to noise from equipment and instruments utilized in the Laboratory is required.

This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.