Forensic Seized Drug Chemist

Forensic Seized Drug Chemist III – Augusta, Maine Job Class Code: 6402, Grade: 24 Opening Date: July 10, 2026 Closing Date: July 23, 2026 Location: Augusta Salary: $56,867.20 – $79,705.60 per year (inclusive of a 10% recruitment and retention stipend) These positions allow partial telework with manager approval. Job Description The Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory seeks a Chemist to test and analyze controlled substances seized by law enforcement agencies. The role involves performing complex analytical procedures with advanced instrumentation, interpreting results, preparing reports, and testifying as an expert witness in legal proceedings. Responsibilities Maintain care, custody, and control of evidence to meet laboratory, legal, and accreditation standards. Select specimens for testing and determine applicable sampling plans. Perform basic statistical analyses on results. Prepare analytical reports summarizing findings. Prepare and document the preparation of reagents and standards. Participate in method and instrument validations. Provide support to law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys. Provide testimony in a court of law for criminal proceedings. Participate in proficiency testing and other quality control programs. Serve as backup evidence technician as needed. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related laboratory science and two (2) years professional-level experience in analytical chemistry (equivalent experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis). Preferred Qualifications At least 2 years experience in a forensic testing laboratory, specifically forensic toxicology. At least 2 years experience in a forensic laboratory examining evidence for the presence of controlled substances, including testifying in a court of law. Experience with analytical instrumentation such as GC/MS, FTIR, and LC/MS. Experience with measurement uncertainty and statistical sampling related to controlled substances analysis. Experience with quality assurance and quality control practices and procedures. Experience performing analytical method validations. Benefits Employees receive a comprehensive compensation package, including: 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually (vacation accrual increases with service). Health insurance coverage: State pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums. Dental insurance: State pays 100% of employee-only premium. Retirement: State contributes equivalent of 14.11% of pay to Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS). Parental leave: six weeks fully paid for both birthing and adoptive parents. Additional benefits include discretionary leave, wellness programs, and compliance with FMLA. Equal Opportunity Statement As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and inclusiveness. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive environment for individuals of all backgrounds, including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status, or genetics. Reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. #J-18808-Ljbffr