Chemistry Technician (Limited Term)

The Pennsylvania State Police is actively looking to hire a Chemistry Technician to join their team. This position encompasses a range of scientific responsibilities that are crucial for laboratory analysis. Key duties include the replacement of gas cylinders, performing basic maintenance on instruments, conducting performance checks on various equipment, and preparing as well as verifying reagents. Additionally, the technician will manage the logging, receiving, storing, transferring, and tracking of evidence, ensuring that all processes adhere to strict protocols. If you are interested in contributing to the vital work of law enforcement through scientific support, we encourage you to apply today!

In this position, you will be responsible for preparing analytical reagents and standard solutions, as well as cleaning glassware and laboratory equipment to support the daily activities of Forensic Scientists. Your duties will include conducting quality assurance checks on these solutions and reagents to ensure they function correctly. Additionally, you will calibrate, clean, and maintain the scientific instruments and equipment utilized for casework analysis, while also monitoring the temperatures of these devices and verifying the calibration of pipettes. You will assist with the receipt, transfer, storage, and return of physical evidence submitted to the laboratory for analysis, occasionally liaising with submitting agencies to ensure the timely and appropriate handling of processed evidence.

Furthermore, you will manage the inventory of expendable laboratory and office supplies by ordering and restocking essential items to ensure the laboratory operates smoothly. Maintaining cleanliness in laboratory areas through diligent housekeeping practices will also be part of your responsibilities. In your role, you will serve as the laboratory inventory control officer and act as a backup laboratory safety officer, ensuring compliance with safety protocols. You will maintain the Safety Data Sheet file, keep current technical periodicals, and manage general library reference materials.

Additionally, you will prepare laboratory case records and documentation for archiving purposes. Your role may also involve performing related tasks necessary for the efficient operation of the laboratory, including those outlined in the Bureau of Forensic Services' Continuity of Operation (COOP) Plan, particularly when the Department's COOP Plan is activated. In the event of a catastrophic incident, you will be expected to respond to designated alternate or secondary locations as directed.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time, limited-term employment (until at least June 30, 2026), 37.5 hours per week
• Work hours are 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $40,685.00 (before taxes).
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirement:

• Completion of 60 college credits including nine credits in chemistry.
  

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.
• This job title has been identified as performing critical duties. Prior to placement in this job title, the selected candidate regardless of their current job, must submit a report of medications for screening by the state police medical officer.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

• Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
• Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
• Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
• You must provide complete and accurate information or:
  • your score may be lower than deserved.
  • you may be disqualified.
• You may only apply/test once for this posting.
• Your results will be provided via email.