Chemist 1
Are you seeking career growth with the State of Connecticut? If so, consider this new and exciting opportunity!
The State of Connecticut, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is currently recruiting for a Chemist 1 vacancy to work within the Toxicology unit within the Chemical Analysis Section of the Division of Scientific Services in Meriden, Connecticut.
In this role, you will conduct full-process examinations while working alongside lab professionals, forensic science examiners and will collaborate with law enforcement partners as needed.
This position is full-time, onsite, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, and is grant funded with an end date of September 30, 2026.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
- Visit our NEW State Employee Benefits Overview page!
- Work at a Forbes-recognized company! Connecticut is proud to be featured on both America's Best Employers by State and Best Employers for New Grads in 2024. With our dynamic job market and commitment to fostering a thriving workforce, Connecticut stands out as a top destination for both seasoned professionals and fresh graduates seeking to launch their careers.
- Professional growth and development opportunities.
- A healthy work/life balance to all employees.
Our state has a lot to offer - from fun activities for all ages, to great food and shopping, to beautiful state parks and forests, to our diverse cultures and rich history. Connecticut is a great place to live! Learn more about Connecticut here.
POSITION HIGHLIGHTS
As a Chemist 1, you will receive training in Toxicology Techniques. Training will also include the following:
- An examination of submitted evidence and completion of written descriptions;
- Photographing of evidence;
- Performing screening and confirmatory analysis in biological specimens (blood and urine) utilizing various liquid chromatography mass spectrometry techniques
- Performing instrument verification of Draeger 9510 Breath Alcohol instruments along with assisting with instruction of instructor certification classes
- Handling materials and samples before and after analysis to maintain them for safekeeping;
- Preparing comprehensive reports; providing explanations and interpretations of results;
- Testifying in court as an expert witness;
- May assist in training laboratory staff and law enforcement personnel;
- Perform related duties as requested.
We are seeking individuals with a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree or advanced degree in Forensic Science, chemistry, biochemistry, toxicology or a closely related field.
More details can be found in the class specification here and the EXAMPLES OF DUTIES section below.
ABOUT US
DESPP is committed to protecting and improving the quality of life for all by providing a broad range of public safety services, training, regulatory guidance, and scientific services utilizing enforcement, prevention, education and state of the art science and technology. DESPP is structured on three key Strategic Pillars created by Commissioner Ronnell Higgins.
1. Operational Efficiency, Efficacy and Excellence • Making decisions through the thoughtful and informed use of data • Challenging the "that's the way it's always been done" construct—i.e., thinking outside the box as to how we can improve • Constantly seeking better results
2. Shared Fiscal Responsibility • Recognizing our collective responsibility to steward the agency's resources • Realigning planned budgetary actions to ensure that they are in taxpayers' interests • Preparing together for potential budget stresses and fiscal challenges
3. Ethics and Accountability • Critically and constantly measuring our practices against our policies • Performing quarterly performance evaluations agency-wide to measure success and flag areas needing improvement • Regularly engaging external partners for feedback and assessments • Opening our doors to Connecticut students and workers for apprenticeships, internships, and career pathways
The Division of Scientific Services provides forensic support to local, state and federal agencies throughout Connecticut. This division is divided into three analytical sections. They are the Chemical Analysis section (including toxicology, controlled substances, and chemistry), the Forensic Biology/DNA section, and the Identification section (including computer crimes).
The laboratory also has two non-analytical sections which include: the Quality section and the Laboratory Support Services section (including administration, evidence receiving, and case management).