Crime Scene Response Team - Cheney (Forensic Scientist 3 In-Training)

State of Washington
Cheney, Washington
Full Time

Email Address

Apply Now

Salary

$60,132.00 - $108,780.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Cheney, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

2139_FS3_CSRT_CHENEY_070225

Department

Washington State Patrol

Division

Spokane Crime Laboratory

Opening Date

07/03/2025

Closing Date

7/27/2025 12:50 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description
Benefits
Questions

Description

This position has been designated as "in-training". As such, WSP will consider filling this position at the Forensic Scientist 1, Forensic Scientist 2, or Forensic Scientist 3 level. The salary range will depend upon at which level the position is filled at and the qualifications of the successful candidate.

Forensic Scientist 1: In-training Approx. 12 months$5,011 to $6,735Forensic Scientist 2: In-training Approx. 18 months$5,531 to $7,443 Forensic Scientist 3: In-training Approx. 6 months$6,735 to $9,065

About the Position:

A Forensic Scientist in the CSRT discipline directly impacts the mission of the CLD by performing independent, timely and accurate analyses of routine and complex casework, writing opinion reports, testifying to conclusions in courts of law, and providing training to criminal justice agencies.

This position is considered critical in the event of Washington State Patrols Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Designation. For Disaster or Emergency Recovery.

Priority 1: Crime scene response to violent crime and other major events.

Priority 2: Vital examination of evidence in violent criminal cases aimed at the identification and apprehension of dangerous suspects likely to re-offend.

Priority 3: Evidence preservation and maintenance of chain of custody.

Priority 4: Secure Crime Laboratory Division casework files and move them to a secure location.

The Forensic Scientist interacts with various staff including, but not limited to, forensic scientists, the laboratory managers, administrative staff, representatives of criminal justice agencies, and the general public. Work priorities are established through interactions with management, criminal justice agencies, prosecutors, and the capabilities and workload of the scientist.

About the Division:

The Crime Laboratory Division (CLD) provides high quality forensic science services and training for Washington's criminal justice agencies that enhances public safety for the people of Washington.

About the Agency:

The WSP actively supports Diversity, Equity, Inclusion in the workplace, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The WSP strives to create and foster an inclusive culture inspiring everyone to be their authentic selves, speak openly, and be courageous. The WSP continues to focus on equitable hiring, training, and promotional practices and policies through innovative recruitment and retention solutions. Partnering with our communities helps the WSP provide the best in public safety services now and into the future.

Duties

Responds to requests for assistance at crime scenes.
Scientifically analyzes evidence in routine, non-routine and complex casework in an area(s) in which they have been authorized and are proficient and productive.
Formulates sound conclusions from data without exceeding the boundaries of the data. Data may result from complex analyses involving multiple methods and techniques, multiple items and examinations.
Reports scientific findings in the form of a written forensic laboratory report based on the interpretation of observations and analytical test results.
Documents and protects evidence in accordance with current laboratory procedures, ensuring that the chain of custody is maintained.
Testify as an expert witness in courts of law
Maintaining competency in casework analysis.
Respond to discovery requests, providing all appropriate material in a timely manner.
Follow the standards of accreditation (ANAB), laboratory and agency policies.
Participates in the proficiency testing program by successfully completing all assigned proficiencies and competencies.
Assures that all assigned instruments have undergone the appropriate performance checks and maintenance.

Work Setting/ Hazards: The setting is a forensic laboratory where chemical and biological hazards, drugs, firearms, and other hazards may be present. Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events. Work settings will include crime scenes in varying locations and environments.

Schedule:

40-hour work week, generally 5 days per week Monday through Friday. Hours may be flexible upon approval of the supervisor/laboratory manager. Laboratory business hours are determined locally and are generally 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. May be required to work overtime on rush requests or for court testimony.

Crime scene response requires time spent on-call (standby pay) and may incur overtime for time spent outside regular business hours for callouts.

Travel Requirements:

Extensive travel will be required for crime scene response.

Some travel within and outside the state will be required for court testimony and attendance at meetings and training events.

Tools and Equipment: Responsible for the operation and maintenance of scientific instruments and equipment utilized by the Crime Scene Response unit, such as, but not limited to: digital cameras, 3D laser scanners, alternate light sources, various power tools, chemical reagents, equipment, and forensic laboratory equipment. Must maintain proficiency with computers, relevant software, and standard office equipment.

Customer Interactions: Interact with representatives of law enforcement agencies, prosecutors' offices, and defense attorneys on a regular basis. These interactions may be in person, via telephone, or electronic systems.

Other: Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Must possess a valid, unrestricted Washington State Driver's License or able to obtain one within 30 days of employment.
Must be willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events.
A baccalaureate or an advanced degree in a chemical, physical, or biological science or forensic science from an accredited institution.
Equivalent education/experience at or above the minimum required for the Forensic Scientist level being hired may substitute for the education requirement, on a case by case basis.

Conditions of Employment:

Successful completion of a pre-employment polygraph examination and background investigation.
Provide an oral DNA sample to be used in the CODIS Elimination Profile Index.
You must submit a current cover letter, and unofficial school transcripts (high school/ GED and/ or college) when you apply.

Why work for the Washington State Patrol?

A healthy life/work balance by offering flexible schedules and telework options for most positions.
Continuous growth and development opportunities.
Opportunities to serve your community and make an impact through meaningful work
Employment opportunities that recognize military veterans and/or military spouse per Governor Executive Order 19-01
Qualification for the Public Loan Forgiveness Program.

Supplemental Information

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.

For more information regarding how to apply for this position, please click here.

Applicants claiming veterans preference must attach a copy of their DD214 (SSN must be blacked out). If you do not provide the required documentation, the veterans preference will not be awarded. Please click here to determine your eligibility.

WSP Policy 1.04.020 - WSP does not engage in, or assist with, civil immigration enforcement, therefore; In no stage of the hiring process will the immigration status of family members of the candidate be investigated by the Washington State Patrol.

Questions?

Please contact Monica Simpson at ... .

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

No additional point value is given for questions 1-3. Have you ever worked for the Washington State Patrol (WSP)?

If you answered "yes" to question #1, what month/year were you last employed with WSP?

If you answered "yes" to question #1, what district/division were you assigned to prior to separation from WSP?

+WSP-PBE01 - The Washington State Patrol has strict hiring standards for all employees within our agency. Carefully review questions 5 - 23 and respond honestly. If you are selected to move forward in the hiring process, you will be required to respond to these questions during a polygraph test. UNTRUTHFUL RESPONSES WILL RESULT IN YOUR PERMANENT DISQUALIFICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT WITH OUR AGENCY. "POSSESSION" is defined as having actual physical control of any illegal (non-prescribed) drug for personal use with the intent to commit a crime. "USE" is defined as trying, testing, or experimenting - which includes but is not limited to - tasting, smoking, injecting, absorbing, sniffing, or inhaling. Do you understand the importance of answering these questions honestly AND that untruthful responses will permanently disqualify you from employment with our agency?

+WSP-PBE02 - For the questions related to past drug use, definitions of illegal Schedule 1-5 drugs are listed here for your reference: Schedule I (RCW 69.50.204) - Examples could include: Codeine, Heroin, Morphine, Ecstasy, LSD, Peyote, GHB, Methaqualone, Cannabis, etc. Schedule II (RCW 69.50.206) - Examples could include: Opium, Cocaine, Codeine, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Methadone, Methamphetamine, Amphetamine, Depressants, Hallucinogenic substances, etc. Schedule III (RCW 69.50.208) - Examples could include: Stimulants, Depressants, Hallucinogens, Ketamine, Anabolic steroids, Hallucinogenic substances, etc. Schedule IV (RCW 69.50.210) - Examples could include: Barbital, Diazepam, Fludiazepam, Halazepam, Lorazepam, Phenobarbital, etc. Schedule V (RCW 69.50.212). Have you possessed or used any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Cannabis) over five (5) times combined within the last 10 years? This also applies to synthetic versions of these drugs.

+WSP-PBE03 - Have you possessed or used any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Cannabis) in the last three (3) years? This also applies to synthetic versions of these drugs.

+WSP-PBE05 - Have you been convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) within the last 10 years?

+WSP-PBE06 - Have you been convicted of a misdemeanor involving DUI more than once?

+WSP-PBE07 - Have you ever injected any non-prescribed illegal drugs?

+WSP-PBE08 - Have you ever knowingly trafficked, sold, offered to sell, or transported for sale any illegal drugs after age 13?

+WSP-PBE09 - Have you ever possessed or used any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except Cannabis) after submitting any law enforcement application?

+WSP-PBE10 - Have you ever possessed or used Heroin or its derivatives?

+WSP-PBE11 - Have you ever used or illegally possessed any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs while employed by a law enforcement agency (this includes military law enforcement)?

+WSP-PBE12 - For the following questions, the term "conviction" refers to any disposition adverse to you. A decision not to prosecute, a dismissal, or acquittal will not be considered a conviction for the purpose of these questions; however, a dismissal received after a period of probation, suspension, or deferral of prosecution or sentence will be considered a conviction for the purposes of these questions. Have you ever been convicted of a felony?

+WSP-PBE13 - Have you intentionally inhaled (huffed) any aerosol or substance (nitrous oxide, whippets, paint, glue, DXM, etc.) in the last three (3) years?

+WSP-PBE14 - Have you ever been convicted of a misdemeanor involving the use or possession of firearms in the commission of a crime, crimes of violence (i.e., domestic violence, assault, sex crimes, etc.), or controlled substances?

+WSP-PBE15 - Have you been convicted of a misdemeanor in the last three (3) years?

+WSP-PBE16 - Have you been convicted of a misdemeanor (other than those listed in PBE14) OVER the age of 21?

+WSP-PBE17 - Have you ever been convicted of a misdemeanor UNDER the age of 21?

+WSP-PBE18 - Have you been convicted of more than two (2) major moving violations (Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving 2nd Degree, etc.) in the last five years?

+WSP-PBE19 - Have you ever been convicted of a crime or had a charge reduced or dismissed for any reason?

+WSP-PBE20 - If you answered Yes to one or more questions listed in #5 through #22, you MUST provide detailed information (including dates) for each situation. NOT PROVIDING AN EXPLANATION FOR EACH YES ANSWER WILL DISQUALIFY YOU FROM FURTHER CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION. If you marked No to each of these questions please type -Does not apply-.

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?

Will you now or in the future require 'sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit? For purposes of this question "sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit" means "an H-IB visa petition, an 0-1 visa petition, an E-3 visa petition, TN status and 'job flexibility benefits' (also known as 1-140 portability or Adjustment of Status portability) for long-delayed adjustment of status applications that have been pending for 180 days or longer." (please contact us at the email address on the bottom of this job posting if you are uncertain whether you may need immigration sponsorship or desire clarification.)

Do you possess a valid, unrestricted Washington state drivers license or are you able to obtain one within 30 days of employment?

Do you have a bachelor's degree or higher in chemical, physical, or biological science or forensic science from an accredited institution. ? (Please choose only one of the following)

I do not have this experience.
I have a bachelor's degree or higher in chemical science
I have a bachelor's degree or higher in biological science
I have a bachelor's degree or higher in physical science
I have a bachelor's degree or higher in forensic science

How many years of technical experience do you have in a forensic laboratory, performing analysis of physical evidence, to include testifying as an expert witness in a court of law.

I do not have this experience
I have at least one year of this experience
I have 1 - 2 years of this experience
I have 2 - 3 years of this experience
I have less at least 3 years of this experience
I have 4 or more years of this experience

Do you have experience in bloodstain pattern analysis ?

I have no prior experience
I have LESS THAN 24 months experience
I have AT LEAST 2 years of experience.
I have AT LEAST 3 years of experience.
I have MORE THAN 3 years experience

Do you have 10 semester (or 15 quarter) hours of college level physics?

Do you have 20 semester (or 30 quarter) hours of college level chemistry?

The work setting is a forensic laboratory where chemical and biological hazards, drugs, firearms, and other hazards may be present and will also include varying locations and environments of crime scenes. Are you willing and able to work in these locations?

Your schedule may require you to work overtime on rush requests or for court testimony. Your schedule may also require crime scene response time spent outside regular business hours on-call (standby pay) in which you may incur overtime for these callouts. Are you willing and able to work this type of schedule?

This position is responsible for the operation and maintenance of scientific instruments and equipment utilized by the Crime Scene Response unit, such as, but not limited to: digital cameras, 3D laser scanners, alternate light sources, various power tools, chemical reagents, equipment, and forensic laboratory equipment. Do you understand that you must maintain proficiency with computers, relevant software, and standard office equipment?

Are you willing and able to work on cases involving traumatic events?

Which of the following best describes your experience working with Microsoft Office products (Outlook, Excel, Word).

I have LESS THAN 24 months of this type of experience.
I have AT LEAST 2 years of this type of experience.
I have at least 3 years of this type of experience.
I have at least 4 years of this type of experience.
I have 5 or more years of this type of experience.
I do not have this type of experience.

CSRT Have you completed a course in crime scene reconstruction?

CSRT Please list what course(s) you have completed in crime scene reconstruction and where the courses were taken.

Which of the following best describes your knowledge of the science of controlled substances, trace evidence, crime scene investigation, latent fingerprints, firearms and tool marks, and DNA analysis?

Willing (Little or no experience or training regarding this competency, but interested and willing to learn).
Developing (Developing knowledge and skills regarding this competency through completion of an employer-sponsored training or higher education program OR, through at least 6 months of experience applying this competency in the workplace).
Skilled (Has successfully and regularly applied this competency in the workplace. Recognized by others as demonstrating ample knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 1 - 3 years of experience.)
Expert (Applications of this competency is polished to excellence and is extensive in nature. Recognized by others as demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skills regarding this competency. Generally, this is achieved through 3 or more years of experience.

As part of the pre-employment process, are you willing and able to undergo an extensive background investigation? This would include a polygraph examination, credit check, criminal records check, and fingerprinting.

In order to be considered for this position, you must have included a current cover letter explaining how you meet the qualifications for this position. Did you include your current cover letter?

You must submit your unofficial transcript of the highest degree that you've completed. Did you attach an unofficial transcript of the highest degree that you've completed?

Where did you hear about this job?