STATE OF CONNECTICUT EXECUTIVE BRANCH JOBS

Laboratory Assistant 3 (40 Hour)

Recruitment #210324-5238FK-001

Introduction


Looking for a job to serve the State of Connecticut in the field of forensic science, with a rewarding and challenging position while working as a team player striving for the same result?

We have the job for you!

The State of Connecticut, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is recruiting for a Laboratory Assistant 3 located in the Forensic Laboratory Forensic Biology/DNA Section within the Division of Scientific Services in Meriden, CT.  

This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position, Monday-Friday schedule. This position is grant funded with an end date of September 30, 2022.

About Us

The Division of Scientific Services (DSS) provides forensic support to local, state and federal agencies throughout Connecticut.  This division is divided into three analytical Sections. They are the Chemical Analysis Section (including toxicology, controlled substances, and arson), the Forensic Biology/DNA Section, and the Identification Section (including computer crimes). The laboratory also has two non-analytical Sections.  They are the Quality Section and Laboratory Support Services (including Administration, Evidence Receiving, and Case Management).

The Laboratory Assistant 3 will be performing bench work; Quality Control checking  reagents, evidence handling, exam and any documentation necessary for casework examination procedures.

Selection Plan

Candidate selected for an interview must provide the following at the time of interview: 

State Employees:

  • Two (2) most recent performance evaluations
  • Cover letter
  • Completed CT-HR-13 
Non-State Employees:

  • Two (2) letters of professional reference from a current and/or previous supervisor
  • Cover Letter
  • Completed CT-HR-13
Candidates who have been selected for employment with the Department of Emergency Services & Public Protection are subject to a detailed background investigation, including a fingerprint supported state and federal criminal history record check along with reference checks. Selection for employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of the background investigation. Click here (CT-HR-13) to complete the Criminal Convictions addendum. 

The CT-HR-13 can also be found on the DAS website http://portal.ct.gov/das by typing in ""CT-HR-13"" into the ""Search Department of Administrative Services"" search field. 

Also considered in this selection process: Any pending or disciplinary history within the past 2 years and review of attendance records.

Failure to provide the required documents listed above or submit your application accurately and on time, will eliminate you from the recruitment process.

This posting may require completion of additional referral questions (RQs) which will be sent to you via email after the closing date. The email notification will include an expiration date by which you must submit (Finish) your responses. Please regularly check your email for notifications. Please check your SPAM and/or Junk folders, as emails could end up there in error. 

Should you have questions pertaining to this recruitment, please contact Erica McGuinness at erica.mcguinness@ct.gov.

PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)

In a state health, academic or diagnostic laboratory, this class is accountable for performing a range of technical laboratory work with emphasis on special techniques and more complex technical examinations involving independent calculations, more advanced laboratory equipment and analytical judgements.
In an academic institution laboratory complex, this class is accountable for preparing and maintaining student laboratories.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

STATE HEALTH, ACADEMIC OR DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY: Prepares specimens/samples, culture media, solutions and reagents of varying complexity but with emphasis on use of more specialized techniques and calibrated measuring devices, analytical balances and independent calculations; performs more complex technical examinations; assists in collection and identification of specimens for special laboratory studies; performs minor maintenance on laboratory equipment; maintains inventory of all testing materials prepared; keeps records of laboratory findings and prepares reports; may lead lower level laboratory employees in preparatory techniques and performance of technical examinations; performs related duties as required.
ACADEMIC INSTITUTION LABORATORY COMPLEX: Prepares materials and equipment needed to carry out student laboratory assignments and maintain large student laboratories, e.g. media, solutions, reagents and stains of varying types and complexities, preserved materials and animal specimens, instructional media, etc.; ensures cleanliness and proper set up of laboratory equipment, materials and facilities; requisitions needed supplies and maintains inventory; assembles and breaks down laboratory exercises and course materials; oversees and assists student workers and other lower level laboratory employees; prepares reports; performs related duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY

Knowledge of specialized laboratory techniques and procedures; ability to make independent analytical judgements and carry out independent calculations; ability to prepare reports and keep technical records.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE

Four (4) years' experience in laboratory work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SPECIAL EXPERIENCE

Two (2) years of the General Experience must have been in a related laboratory setting at the level of Laboratory Assistant 2 or above.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED

College training in the biological or physical sciences may be substituted for the General or Special Experience on the basis of fifteen (15) semester hours equalling one-half (1/2) year of experience to a maximum of four (4) years for a Bachelor's degree.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience in General Laboratory Skills (e.g. weighing, pipetting, use of laboratory glassware, aseptic technique, laboratory terminology)
  • Experience in safely and effectively handling potentially infectious and hazardous materials
  • Experience in handling forensic evidence and accurately document examination and observation procedures
  • Experience in laboratory Quality Assurance and Quality Control

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Incumbents in this class must be willing to undergo periodic tests or immunizations for communicable diseases as necessary.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Incumbents in this class may occasionally be required to lift standard laboratory equipment; may be exposed to some risk of injury from such elements as toxic vapors and toxic and/or disease-carrying substances; may be exposed to moderately disagreeable conditions.

Conclusion

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.