Chemistry Analyst

Mission:

The Forensic Science Division Laboratory is a multi-disciplined service facility that supports the Department of Justice's mission to pursue activities and programs that seek to ensure and promote the public interest, safety, and well-being. The activities and programs for which FSD is responsible include managing a statewide system of death investigations and providing scientific analyses of specimens/evidence submitted by law enforcement officials, coroners and state agencies.

The mission of the Montana Forensic Science Division is to use operationally efficient and financially responsible practices as the laboratory provides accurate, objective and timely forensic analyses to the criminal justice community.

The Division is composed of the following sections: Toxicology/Breath Testing, Biology, Chemistry, Firearms/Tool Marks, Latent Print/Impression Evidence, and the State Medical Examiner's Office.

Job Overview:

The Chemistry Analyst performs a full range of scientific analysis of various materials and substances. Analysis areas can include controlled substances (including clandestine laboratories). Conducts quality control and quality assurance procedures. Makes significant technical contributions to the laboratory, shares new ideas, builds strong internal and external networks, and mentors and develops less experienced staff. Testifies in court as an expert witness regarding analytical results, methodology, interpretation and reliability of results within their forensic field. May supervise training programs and conduct research and planning in support of laboratory projects and goals.

The successful candidate will work with collaboratively with a larger team that analyzes chemical and biological materials; will stand for extended periods of time; rely upon manual dexterity and fine motor skills; and focus attention on details. Testifying in court and managing emotions pertaining to victim deaths may be stressful.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biological science, or a closely related field. Must have successfully completed lecture and associated labs in general,, organic and analytical chemistry. A bachelor's degree in Chemistry is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• One or more year's experience performing casework in an accredited lab.
• Successful completion of an accredited laboratory training program.
• Qualified to testify in court.
• Other combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case by case basis.

Special Instructions:

The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicant's qualification may include but are not limited to an evaluation of the résumé and cover letter, a structured interview, performance test, academic transcripts, reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.

Additional materials, references or information submitted by the applicant, but not requested, will not be considered.

Successful applicant(s) will be subject to:

• Criminal History Fingerprint Check
• Intensive Background Check
• Driving History check
• Pre-employment Drug Testing

HOW TO APPLY:

To be considered for this position, you must attach a cover letter, resume and transcripts at the time of application .

Tip: When attaching your resume, you must mark the attachment as a "Relevant File".

Your Resume : Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position. Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.

A complete online state application is not required. To initiate an application, attach the resume to be considered for this position. Failure to attach résumé will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.

Only electronic applications will be accepted. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. Please submit preference documentation to Terri Christianson at Terese.Christianson@mt.gov via File Transfer Service .

To request an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.

Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits .

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays
• Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program

State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

This Organization Participates in E-Verify .

Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.

Closing Date/Time: Nov 11, 2025, 11:59:00 PM

• 

• Montana Department of Justice

• 1 (406) 459-3741

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