Are you a skilled professional with a passion for forensic science and public safety? Join our Centre of Forensic Sciences, Public Safety Division as a Forensic Technical Specialist. In this role, you will conduct forensic testing and examinations on a variety of case-related items and samples, utilizing advanced analytical instrumentation and scientific techniques. You will ensure the integrity and continuity of each item, generate and analyze test results, and apply quality assurance processes to confirm findings. Additionally, you will maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment, participate in method development and validation, and provide expert testimony in court. If you are committed to excellence and eager to contribute to the field of forensic science, we encourage you to apply and become a vital part of our team.
About the job
In this role, you will:
• conduct forensic testing and examinations on a variety of case-related items and samples
• use a range of analytical equipment and techniques, specific to each forensic discipline
• document and process incoming and outgoing case-related items, materials, information, and documents
• generate and collect test results, analyze preliminary findings, and applying quality assurance processes to confirm findings
• set up, operate, maintain, and validate assigned instrumentation and equipment
• troubleshoot and perform repairs on equipment
• participate in forensic research as directed
What you bring to the team
Mandatory requirements
• Completed post-secondary education from a university (degree) or community college (diploma or certificate) in one of the physical, life or forensic sciences, or equivalent.
Specialized Knowledge
You have knowledge of:
• laboratory practices and techniques and scientific theories in such disciplines as chemistry, analytical chemistry,
pharmacology, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and their application to forensic science to conduct the
testing of a variety of forensic case exhibits and samples (e.g. bodily fluids and tissues, DNA, hairs and fibres,
fire debris, ignitable liquids, paint, gunshot residue, explosives)
• evidence handling procedures to ensure the preservation of evidence in order to meet evidence requirements
• legislative authorities to ensure compliance, the court system and related protocols to ensure compliance when testifying in court
• operations and capabilities of scientifically advanced testing instruments and hardware/software equipment
Analytical, Research and Problem-Solving Skills
• You have analytical reasoning skills to consider available procedures and to determine optimal methods of testing materials
• You can analyze preliminary results of laboratory tests of forensic evidence and samples and conduct quality assurance processes
• You can identify precautions to be taken when handling potential biohazards, electrical hazards, flammable or toxic substances, or other materials that pose a health and safety risk
• You can ensure accuracy of data and appropriate calibration of equipment
• You can identify and resolve issues or problems related to samples or instruments
• You can troubleshoot and rectify instrumental problems by assessing performance and doing required maintenance, or making recommendations about external repairs
• You have research skills to participate in internal research of new instrumentation, validation of methods and improvements to existing methods and processes
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• You can work in a team environment, and in a one-on-one relationship with others, staff above and below
• You can prepare data findings and detailed notes of observations and tests, draft analytical/operational procedures
• You can discuss detailed test findings and observations, and interpretation of test results
• You can demonstrate operations and provide training to scientists, students and colleagues on the use of analytical instrumentation
Time Management Skills
• You have time management skills to ensure efficient workflow of assigned tasks
**IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS**
As part of the application process, please respond to the following question: Can you please describe a complex scientific or forensic analysis you have performed. What was the objective, what instrumentation and/or software did you use, and how did you ensure the results were accurate and reliable? Your response must be clear and concise, limited to 200 words or less. Please include your response within your application and submit as one document when you apply (i.e. along with your cover letter and resume). Only applications including a completed response to this question will be considered.
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:
What we offer
The Ontario Public Service is one of Ontario's largest employers. Employees work for a wide range of ministries, with offices in more than 70 cities across the province. We offer:
• a career that can grow across ministries and job functions
• flexible learning and developmental opportunities, including education and mentorship programs
• many employee networks offering support for and education about underrepresented groups
• tailored work arrangements, including opportunities like flex hours, self-funded leave and more
Our comprehensive compensation and benefits package includes:
• a defined-benefit lifetime pension plan (guaranteed, ongoing inflation-protected income after retirement)
• group health, dental, life and disability benefits
• a range of vacation and leave options
• an Employee and Family Assistance Program, which provides confidential counseling services