Director, Division of Forensic Science

This position directs and manages the activities of the Delaware Division of Forensic Science and provides administrative oversight to the Chief Medical Examiner to ensure compliance with scientific, statutory and legal requirements and meets the needs of the Delaware Criminal Justice community and other Public Health stakeholders.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Develops goals, objectives and sets priorities for the Division of Forensic Science.
• Develops laboratory policies in response to court rulings, new legislation, and the advances of new technologies.
• Ensures continued compliance with Laboratory Quality Assurance, training and safety programs to provide accurate, reliable and quality forensic science services.
• Reviews and approves new and revised methods and standard operating procedures used by the Division of Forensic Science.
• Reviews and approves all quality assurance reviews.
• Directs and manages the professional and technical staff of the Division of Forensic Science ensuring it is staffed with highly qualified individuals.
• Evaluates staffing needs and makes recommendations in developing and updating a workforce plan.
• Sets goals and objectives for Division of Forensic Science personnel and is responsible for the performance evaluation, commendation and disciplinary processes ensuring fair and equitable treatment.
• Investigates and resolves, whenever possible, staff complaints and grievances.
• Recommends and advises the Office of the DSHS Secretary Chief of Administration on personnel matters relating to the Division of Forensic Science matters relating to hiring, transfers, promotions, training and terminations.
• Ensures that all staff successfully complete all required training and competency testing.
• Directs and manages the analysis of the physical evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies and the expert witness testimony provided by Division of Forensic Science personnel to the courts.
• Responsible for providing and maintaining a Laboratory Information Management System.
• Develops and enforces policies and procedures regarding the security of evidence while in the possession of the Division of Forensic Science.
• Oversees and documents all new techniques developed through research projects and ensures that all are validated before being used for casework.
• Develop policies regarding Division of Forensic Science building security, including staff access levels and visitor policies.
• Manages the Division of Forensic Science budget including initial development and makes recommendations regarding final inclusions.
• Implements the Division of Forensic Science’s budget and monitors revenues and expenditures.
• Researches and identifies potential revenue sources.
• Responsible for grant applications and grant program compliance.
• Ensures that all fiscal resources, personnel and equipment assigned to the Division of Forensic Science are effectively managed in order to meet organizational goals.
• Develops and implements various types of controls in an effort to reduce potential liability.
• Prepares and/or directs the preparation of required reports and documentation for the Delaware General Assembly, Governor, Secretary of Safety and Homeland Security and the Delaware Commission of Forensic Science.
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as required.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of government budgeting and administrative processes.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of forensic science and the criminal justice system, including rules of evidence and court testimony, the scientific principles and theory behind all examinations performed in the Division of Forensic Science laboratories.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations and guidelines relating to criminal law and procedures, specifically criminal law.
• Knowledge of the principles, concepts and current practices of management including personnel management, budgeting, purchasing and accounting techniques.
• Knowledge of the statutory requirements for death investigations in Delaware.
• Knowledge of procedures and practices utilized by the Medical Examiners.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Director, Division of Forensic Science

Please attach a resume with your online application or use the resume tab in DEL to provide a detailed description of how your education, training and/or experience meets each job requirement including employer, experience/responsibilities and dates (month/year) of employment/training. Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Master’s degree with significant course work (under-graduate or graduate level) in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Forensic Science or other highly related field.
2. Five or more years of experience performing scientific analysis or research.
3. Three or more years as a manager or supervisor of an accredited laboratory or research facility.

If not a current resident of the State of Delaware, the selected applicant must obtain a permanent residence within six months of date of hire. 

Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of employment. 

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. 

A satisfactory criminal background check and a satisfactory background investigation is required as a condition of hire.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at http://ben.omb.delaware.gov/

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.