CLASSIFICATION 

Exempt

JOB DESCRIPTION

Summary

The DNA Technical Leader requires extensive knowledge of all aspects of forensic DNA laboratory processing and reporting. This position will work closely with senior management to develop and implement new policies and procedures; and will aid in the training of all new DNA analysts. As a  DNA analyst they will perform routine analysis of biological samples, prepare accurate and precise notes and technical reports, and perform maintenance, calibration, and quality control on scientific instruments.

This is a safety sensitive position as defined by state and federal laws that will require working with hazardous materials and/or handling medicine. As a "safety sensitive" classification, you will be subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing. Marijuana is one of the substances included in the drug panel screening. Possession of a medical marijuana license will not excuse you from the testing process, or the consequences of testing positive for marijuana. 

Salary Grade/Level/Family/Range 

Non-management

Reports to

Laboratory Director 

Essential Functions

• Evaluation and documentation of approval of all validations and methods used by the laboratory and propose new or modified analytical procedures to be used by analyst.
• Review and document the review of the academic transcripts and training records for newly qualified analysts and approve their qualifications prior to their conducting independent casework analysis.
• Approve the technical specifications for outsourcing agreements.
• Review and document the review of internal and external DNA audit documents and if applicable, approve corrective actions.
• Review annually the procedures of the laboratory and document such review.
• Review and approve the training, quality assurance and proficiency testing programs in the laboratory.
• Adherence to all DNA solutions safety standards, policies, procedures and protocols.

Competencies

• Ability to oversee existing Quality regime.
• Experience with DNA extraction, amplification and analysis.
• Sound scientific decision-making in relation to DNA interpretation.
• Ability to critically evaluate laboratory workflows

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional laboratory environment.  Attendance is required.

This role routinely uses standard laboratory equipment such as computers, centrifuges, thermocyclers and PCR hoods.

Physical Demands

This position requires the ability to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50lbs.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position.

Days and hours of work are 8 to 5 Monday through Friday. Occasional weekend work may be necessary. 

Travel

Some overnight and local day travel may be necessary (0-10%) and may include weekends

Required Education and Experience

• A master's degree in a biology, chemistry, or forensic science-related area or have a waiver from American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD).
• Twelve semester hours or equivalent credit hours including a combination of graduate and undergraduate course work or classes covering the following subject areas of Biochemistry; Genetics; Molecular biology; and Statistics or population genetics.
• Have three years of forensic DNA laboratory experience obtained at a laboratory where forensic DNA testing was conducted.
• Have a minimum of two years human-DNA experience (current or previous) as a qualified analyst on forensic samples.
• Shall have previously completed, or will successfully complete within one year of his or her appointment, the FBI sponsored auditor training.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Have greater than 5 years of forensic DNA laboratory experience obtained at a laboratory where forensic DNA testing was conducted.
• Successful completion of the FBI sponsored auditor training.
• Have experience as an expert witness.

AAP/EEO Statement

DNA Solutions, Inc.  provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetics or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.  DNA Solutions, Inc. expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetics or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.  Improper interference with the ability of DNA Solutions, Inc. employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.  Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants and employees are treated without regard to any of these characteristics.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.