Forensic Scientist

Position Overview

The Forensic Scientist plays a critical role in processing, analyzing, documenting, and testifying about various types of evidence and crime scenes primarily within Maricopa County, with occasional assignments beyond. This role demands impartial and meticulous evaluation of evidence and crime scenes following constitutional, state laws, and court procedures.

About the Employer

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office is Arizona's leading law enforcement agency, offering roles for civilian, detention, and sworn personnel. The department values integrity, interpersonal strength, and community service commitment.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $28.80 - $45.00 per hour
• Work-life balance with a 4-day, 10-hour schedule tailored to operational needs
• Manageable assigned workload
• Opportunities for criminal polygraph training and certification with various associations
• Networking opportunities with partner agencies
• Three medical plan options with premiums starting as low as $70 monthly
• Ten annual holidays plus one personal day
• Enrollment in Arizona State Retirement System (pension plan)
• Paid sick and parental leave for birth/adoption
• Discounts and childcare facilities, including KinderCare and MCKids Club
• Access to complimentary County fitness centers

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Natural Science, Forensic Science, Criminalistics or a related discipline, or equivalent combination of education and experience on a year-for-year basis
• Completion of a 40-hour Fingerprint Classification course from an accredited institution or recognized law enforcement agency
• Valid Arizona driver’s license or ability to obtain one before hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in crime scene processing, latent fingerprint comparison, and lab examinations
• Completion of 80 hours of specialized forensic photography courses through accredited or criminal justice organizations
• Certification such as AZAFIS and IAI for Crime Scene and/or Latent fingerprints

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical support at crime scenes, including jail incidents, documenting and collecting physical evidence such as latent prints, biological and trace materials
• Photograph evidence and scenes using varied platforms including aerial and aquatic vehicles to establish context
• Recover and analyze latent fingerprint evidence for identity verification
• Conduct presumptive chemical tests for blood and semen detection
• Packaging and preserving evidence correctly for forensic use
• Prepare detailed narrative reports and complete all investigation-related documentation
• Collect and analyze fingerprint, palmprint, and impression evidence by various methods for comparative purposes
• Enter and validate prints in the Arizona Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AZFIS)
• Identify unknown individuals including deceased persons through various forensic modalities
• Attend autopsies to collect prints and photographic evidence from deceased subjects
• Perform follow-up procedures including court appearances, evidence processing, and analysis
• Handle chemicals safely while conducting daily forensic testing such as gunshot residue and blood sampling
• Maintain professional communication internally and with external agencies including the FBI
• Ensure chain of custody and evidence security at all times
• Manage evidence lab equipment and inventory of forensic supplies; deliver training to staff on evidence collection and processing
• Work under adverse emotional conditions including exposure to traumatic scenes and sensitive materials
• Operate within law enforcement radio communication protocols
• Provide public education via lab tours and presentations

Work Environment

This position is subject to varied indoor and outdoor conditions, with exposure to extreme temperatures, biohazards, chemicals, and potentially traumatic or hazardous situations. Physical demands include extended periods of standing, walking, lifting up to 50 pounds, using protective gear, and working in confined or elevated environments. Social conditions frequently involve high-pressure scenarios, emergencies, teamwork and interaction with diverse populations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of legal evidentiary standards and evidence preservation techniques
• Knowledge of forensic identification principles and techniques
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 suite at intermediate to advanced levels
• Skill in latent print processing, trace evidence collection, and operating forensic lab apparatus
• Ability to apply chemical safety and laboratory protocols
• Strong written and verbal communication skills appropriate for courtroom and professional settings
• Capacity to maintain confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information
• Professional interaction with public and criminal justice community members

Application and Selection Process

Candidates must submit an online application and pass comprehensive background checks including fingerprinting, polygraph, psychological evaluations, drug and alcohol screening where applicable. The hiring decision will be based on department needs and applicant credentials.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Maricopa County is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodations during the hiring process and employment under ADA regulations.