Dfs: Validation Coordinator (Dna)

General Job Information

Job Summary

This position is located in the Department of Forensic Sciences (DFS). The mission of the DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services using best practices and best available technology, focusing on unbiased science and transparency, to enhance public safety and health.

This position works under the Unit Manager and with the Technical Leader(s) to ensure the technical aspects of the DNA Analysis program(s) remains in compliance with the Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories established by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the international accreditation standards under ISO 17025.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Validation Coordinator (DNA) ensures the technical aspects of the DNA Analysis program(s) are in compliance with ISO 17025 accreditation standards and the Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories established by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is responsible organizing, directing and performing the validations of technical methodologies,instruments, software, kits/reagents related to forensic DNA laboratory processes.

The incumbent oversees the daily operations pertaining to validations and writes all validation plans for new technologies to be implemented within the unit. The incumbent monitors and reports on the status and progress of validations checking to ensure that the Unit Manager's instructions, priorities, methods, and deadlines are being met.

Evaluates existing DNA methods and proposes new analytical procedures for improved operations: and ensures that all associated quality standards pertaining to ISO 17025 and FBI QAS based accreditation status are being performed and met. May serve as a floating scientist to assist with laboratory casework to include serology/DNA analyses on physical evidence; interprets and reviews test results and develops conclusions and prepares final reports.

Qualifications and Education

Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position Or Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as referenced plus appropriate experience or additional education.

Specialized experience to include the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, including, but not limited to: reporting the interpretation of mixture DNA profiles in casework; interpreting and reporting highly complex DNA casework; and technical review of peers' work.

Licenses and Certifications

N/A

Working Conditions/Environment

This position's duty station will be housed within the Consolidated Forensic Laboratory (CFL) which is a protection-sensitive facility. As such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing, as applicable.

Due to the handling of primary evidence, the applicant will be required to submit a buccal swab for the purposes of the DNA Quality Control database for the DFS. The work environment includes office setting, laboratory conditions, training facility, and courtrooms. The incumbent may be exposed to hazardous materials, toxic substances, blood borne pathogens, and is required to follow safe laboratory practices and wear protective clothing, including facial masks, safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, etc.

The nature of the DFS mission necessarily involves the potential risks associated with biological or chemical hazards, including morgue functions. Although contact with these functions is intended to be minimal, the risks are nevertheless possible; training to recognize, address, and mitigate these risks is required as is dealing with potentially personally difficult topics, such as crime, death, and disease.The nature of the work in the Forensic Science Laboratory requires safe handling and processing of chemicals and reagents within the laboratory, and standard health and safety processes must be constantly demonstrated and reinforced.

Other Significant Factors

Tour of Duty: Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0401-13

Promotion Potential: No Known Promotion Potential

Type of Appointment: Career Service (CS), Regular Appointment

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union): This position is covered under collective bargaining agreement National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) Local R3-05, and subject to pay an agency service fee (union dues) through direct payroll deduction.

Position Suitability: This position is designated as a Safety Sensitive position and is subject to mandatory pre-employment and periodic Criminal Background Checks and Traffic Records Checks (as applicable). This position is also subject to mandatory pre-employment and random Drug and Alcohol Testing. In this position, you may be disqualified from employment based on the presence of marijuana in test results, even if you possess a medical card authorizing the use of medical marijuana."

Position Designation: This position has been designated as essential and acceptance of this offer confirms you agree to adhere to the policies in sections 1271 and 1274 of DPM Chapter 12, regarding essential/emergency employees.

As an essential employee, you will be required to either report to work, stay at work, or telework (if directed to do so) during a declared emergency or during a period of non-emergency where your duties have been deemed as critical District government functions/operations. You may be required to perform other duties outside of your position description during a period of a declared emergency (such as manual labor, shelter services, etc.).

Residency Preference: Applicants claiming "Residency Preference" will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.