Responsibilities

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science is currently in construction of a new state-of-the-art facility in Hanover County. Once completed, this Facility will house staff from the Central Laboratory, Division of Technical Services, Director’s Office, Administrative Offices, and the Office of the Medical Examiner, currently located in Richmond. The transition is anticipated for the First Quarter of 2026.

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to serve as the Technical Leader for its Biology Programs (Nuclear DNA, Mitochondrial DNA and Data Bank) within the Division of Technical Services (DTS). The Program Manager plays a critical role in ensuring laboratory operations meet or exceed accreditation standards and collaborates closely with other Program Managers and agency leadership to drive strategic initiatives and support agency-wide goals. As a subject matter expert in forensic biology, the Program Manager provides guidance on technical protocols and emerging issues, while effectively communicating with the Director of Technical Services, other agency leadership, and external stakeholders. The position collaborates across disciplines and program areas to ensure a well-coordinated approach to agency initiatives affecting all facets of laboratory operations. In addition, the Program Manager designs and implements frameworks for developing, delivering, and evaluating both new and ongoing agency-wide programs, while engaging DFS Section Supervisors to gather input and foster buy-in for program initiatives. Regular overnight travel is required, and employee will provide own transportation as required.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Master’s degree (or higher) in a biology, chemistry, or forensic science related area
Successful completion of at least nine credit hours of coursework in biology or chemistry related areas that provide an understanding of the foundation of DNA analysis
Successful completion of coursework in statistics or population genetics
The required coursework shall include at least one graduate level course
If the degree requirements above were waived by the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) in accordance with the criteria approved by the FBI Director, the documented waiver and approval from one external audit must be provided
At least three (3) years of forensic human DNA (current or previous) experience as a qualified analyst on forensic samples
Currently or previously qualified analyst in at least one of the following STR, YSTR and/or mitochondrial or have documented training in each technology within one year of “appointment”
Successful completion of the FBI’s auditor training course
Currently or previously certified to issue Certificates of Analysis/Test Reports
Demonstrated experience managing staff in a scientific laboratory setting
Experience in providing forensic related teaching/training
Knowledge, skills, and ability to testify in court through experience and/or training
Experience working in an accredited forensic science laboratory and demonstrated knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025:2017, ANAB accreditation criteria, and the FBI DNA QAS
Ability to develop and deliver training and protocols for a forensic science program on a statewide basis
Demonstrated ability to work with the agency’s customers, constituents and stakeholders at a high level, including working with and representing the agency to groups such as boards, committees, and the legislature
Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Valid driver’s license and/or other means of reliable transportation Additional Considerations
Experience as an expert witness providing courtroom testimony and preparing and presenting exhibits of evidence, both verbally and in writing in a clear and concise manner
Experience as a forensic science technical assessor and/or auditor
Experience with probabilistic genotyping
Experience conducting validation studies, validation design and review
Experience with corrective actions and root cause analysis

Compensation

Hiring Range: Commensurate with Experience

Benefits: https://www.dhrm.virginia.gov/employeebenefits

How to apply

To view position details and application closing date, use the link below: http://jobs.virginia.gov/cw/en-us/job/5094728?lApplicationSubSourceID=

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