Forensic Scientist III- Biology/DNA-Rockford

Forensic Scientist III- Biology/DNA-Rockford We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity within the State of Illinois. A variety of employee backgrounds, perspectives, ideas and experiences are crucial to our ability to most effectively serve the public. Bilingual skills welcome. Reasonable Accommodation Statement The State of Illinois is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. Please let us know if you require a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process. Examples may include changes to the application process, alternate format documents, sign language interpreter, or specialized equipment. To provide a Reasonable Accommodation you must provide certification of disability from a physician, psychiatrist, school official, or an Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor. Supporting documentation should be uploaded under “My Documents → Additional Documents” for each application. Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services Disability Resource Center at View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io. Sponsorship for Employment The State of Illinois does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status), nor can it provide extensions of optional practical training (OPT) under the STEM-designated degree program for F-1 students. To be considered for permanent employment with the State of Illinois, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Disclosure of Salary Information In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, the State does not seek, request, or require a job applicant’s wage or salary history. Employment decisions are not made based on an applicant’s wage or salary history. Please do not include wage or salary information in your resume or other coverage materials. Opening Date: 04/15/2026 Closing Date: 05/15/2026 Location: Rockford, IL, US, 61101 Job Requisition ID: 55309 Position Overview The Illinois State Police (ISP) seeks to fill the role of Forensic Scientist III within the Division of Forensic Services. The Forensic Scientist will perform routine and advanced forensic biology and DNA examinations within the Forensic Biology/DNA Section. The role supports daily operational needs, produces clear written case reports, and provides training and outreach to law enforcement agencies. It also offers technical guidance to other forensic scientists, conducts research and method development, and remains current with advancements in forensic science to ensure the highest standards of analytical practice. Health, life, vision, and dental insurance. 12 weeks paid maternity/paternity leave. Pension Plan. Deferred Compensation and other pre‑tax benefit programs. 12 paid sick days annually. 10-25 paid vacation days based on years of service. 3 paid personal days pro‑rated based on start date. 13-14 paid state holidays annually. Essential Functions Conducts both routine and advanced/complex forensic biology and DNA analyses/examinations of evidence in the Forensic Biology/DNA Section. Assists with the day‑to‑day operational needs of the Forensic Biology/DNA Section. Provides written case reports describing analytical findings and provides training and public relations programs for law enforcement agencies. Provides in‑depth guidance to other forensic scientist staff. Conducts methods research and development, and continues to develop as a forensic scientist by keeping abreast of all current information in the field. Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in natural science or forensic science with successful completion of coursework totaling 60 semester hours of natural science, including nine semester hours in genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Five (5) years of professional forensic science work experience. Preferred Qualifications Master’s or PhD degree with coursework in biological, physical, natural, or forensic sciences or related disciplines. At least five (5) years of professional experience in performing specialized and sensitive physical evidence examination of forensic biology/DNA cases in an accurate and progressive manner. Courses or training in statistics and/or population genetics as it applies to forensic DNA analysis. At least five (5) years of experience screening, comparing, and preserving physical evidence and other materials. At least five (5) years of experience communicating thoughts, interpretations of scientific examinations, and conclusions in a clear, concise, and logical manner orally and in writing. At least five (5) years of experience testifying in court as both an expert and rebuttal witness. At least five (5) years of knowledge in State, Federal, and local criminal laws and regulations related to forensic examination of physical evidence. At least five (5) years of experience performing preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment, adjusting and calibrating sensitive equipment, and conducting quality‑control activities. At least two (2) years of experience performing literature search and other scientific research related to forensic science. At least two (2) years of experience coordinating the activities of a small group or staff. Conditions of Employment Successful completion of initial and ongoing random alcohol and drug screens. Successful completion of a background investigation. Successful completion of a polygraph examination. Ability to maintain credibility in providing courtroom testimony. Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's ethical standards. Ability to adhere to Illinois State Police's policies and procedures. Ability to travel on an as-needed basis. Ability to maintain proficiency in forensic science casework on an as-needed basis. No felony or misdemeanor convictions. Ability to work outside of normal working hours. About the Agency The Illinois State Police strives for excellence and seeks to be one of the premier policing agencies in the country. Our core values are Integrity, Service, and Pride. We are seeking individuals with similar values to join us on our mission to promote public safety. Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am-5:00pm Headquarter Location: 200 S Wyman St, Rockford, Illinois, 61101 Work County: Winnebago #J-18808-Ljbffr