Are you a self-motivated scientific professional who excels at problem solving and has a passion for quality? If so, consider this unique role as a member of the Quality Assurance (QA) Unit at the at the Centre of Forensic Sciences (CFS) where you will support the CFS quality program to ensure the continued accreditation status of the CFS.
The CFS provides scientific laboratory services in support of the administration of justice and public safety programs from the state-of-the-art Forensic Services and Coroners Complex located in Toronto and from a smaller location in Sault Ste. Marie.
About the job
• Coordinate and maintain the CFS proficiency testing program by receiving, entering and tracking tests, submitting results and maintaining records.
• Prepare proficiency test and validation samples. Maintain conformance with accreditation standards by advising staff on accreditation requirements, CFS procedures, and the preparation and revision of management system documentation (procedures, forms etc.).
• Monitor on a regular basis, evidence inventory, records of measuring equipment calibration, maintenance and service, H&S checks, reagent preparation, and functioning of equipment.
• Support CFS wide Quality programs such as records review, testimony monitoring, equipment calibrations, validations and maintain records. Maintain documentation of laboratory manuals and records of proficiency testing,
court testimony, methods validation etc.
• Prepare Quality Control (QC) samples, solutions, reagents, and reference standards for use in analysis of evidence by scientific and technical staff
• Perform analysis of QC samples using specialized laboratory instruments
• Participate in the development of procedures related to Quality Assurance, staff training in QA and Health and Safety
• Enter and maintain Proficiency test records and other QA records in CFS databases, Quality management software and laboratory information systems
• Assist in internal audit preparations and participate as an auditor
What you bring to the team
**IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS**
Please provide a written response to the following question:
Describe a time you identified a quality, compliance, accuracy, or process issue. What was the issue, what actions did you take, and what was the outcome?
Your response must be as clear and concise as possible, limited to 250 words or less, and included with your application (i.e., cover letter and résumé). Please upload as one document and write your name on top of the response document. If you do not include a response to this question your application will NOT be considered.
Technical Knowledge
You have:
•knowledge of scientific laboratory principles, methodologies including the standards for accreditation of forensic testing laboratories
• knowledge of forensic laboratory techniques, procedures and principles to assess the efficacy of quality control measures, prepare proficiency tests and samples
•ability to acquire and apply knowledge of legal and scientific requirements for security, evidence handling and storage to ensure the integrity and continuity of evidence for the justice system by monitoring compliance
•knowledge of laboratory health and safety principles and practices including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and WHMIS regulations to ensure a safe work environment by auditing compliance and provide health and safety training
• ability to acquire and apply knowledge of Quality Management Software, Laboratory Information Management systems and databases
Evaluative, Analytical and Problem solving skills:
•you have the ability to identify precautions to be taken in handling biohazards and toxic substances posing risks to personal safety
•you can recognize and document inconsistencies and non-conformity to standards during quality assurance audits
•you possess problem-solving skills to maintain standards by suggesting appropriate policy development areas
Communication (oral and written) and Interpersonal skills:
•you have strong oral and written skills to communicate effectively with staff regarding all aspects of the CFS Management System, provide QA and H&S training and prepare procedures, reports and document results of QA audits.
•you have interpersonal skills to work in a multi-disciplinary, team environment to respond to the needs of staff and promote compliance amongst staff with QA practices
Computer and Data management skills:
•You have demonstrated knowledge of computer software in order to prepare reports, documents, correspondence that meet accessibility requirements and maintain databases by entering, sorting and retrieving information.
Organization skills:
• You have excellent time management skills to complete multiple daily duties and ensure tasks are completed within established time frames and deadlines are met
• You have demonstrated attention to detail to provide clear direction and ensure accurate record keeping and management
Don't meet every qualification?
If you are excited about this position and meet most, but not all, of the listed qualifications, please still consider applying. We recognize that no one person might have every qualification in this job ad, and you just might be the right candidate!
How we support diversity, inclusion and accessibility
We are building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We encourage everyone interested in working with us to apply, including people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black and racialized individuals, as well as people from all ethnicities, cultures, sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.
Our hiring process is accessible, consistent with Ontario's
Human Rights Code and the
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. We are working to prevent and remove barriers in our hiring processes and can offer
accommodation to address specific needs related to Code-protected grounds such as disability, family status and religion. For more information about accommodation during the hiring process please
contact us.Learn more about the work the OPS is doing to create an inclusive, anti-racist, accessible and diverse workplace: