Summary

This job involves analyzing firearms and toolmarks evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases, testifying in court about findings, and supporting lab improvements through training and method validation.

It's ideal for someone with a science background who is detail-oriented, works well under pressure, and is committed to unbiased, fair practices in law enforcement.

Entry-level candidates with a relevant degree can start with training, while those with lab experience may qualify for higher pay grades.

Key Requirements

Bachelor's degree in forensic science, natural science, physical science, criminal justice, industrial technology, or a related field
For Forensic Scientist 9: No specific experience required; or 2 years of State Police Specialist experience in firearms and toolmarks
For Forensic Scientist 10: One year of professional experience in a crime laboratory equivalent to Forensic Scientist 9
For Forensic Scientist P11: Two years of professional experience in a crime laboratory, including one year equivalent to Forensic Scientist 10
Ability to examine forensic evidence, conduct tests, and testify in court
Commitment to bias-free practices and treating all individuals with dignity and respect
Subject to drug testing (pre-appointment, random, and post-accident)

Full Job Description

Find your new career path. Join the MSP.

Responsible for evaluating and examining forensic evidence in connection with criminal cases in the area of firearms/toolmarks. Duties also include testifying in court, crime scene investigations, and support the validation of new methods, equipment and instruments. This position will receive direct training by a senior-level scientist or manager until fully competent. This position functions in a bias free manner.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Michigan State Police is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace that accepts, respects, and values the unique contributions of everyone. We are actively looking for individuals who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, and who reflect the communities we serve. Our members are expected to perform their tasks and duties in a bias-free manner, ensuring all persons are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. Join us as we help build a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure.

The Michigan State Police (MSP) is a full-service policing agency with statewide jurisdiction, providing over 60 different services either directly to Michigan residents or in support of other law enforcement agencies. The MSP personnel most visible to the public are the uniform troopers whose primary responsibilities include traffic enforcement, crime prevention and investigation, and community engagement and service.

Requirements

Education
Possession of a bachelor's degree in forensic science, natural science, or a related pure or applied science.

Firearms Specialty: Positions in the State Police Laboratory firearms and toolmarks area require possession of a bachelor’s degree with a major in physical science, natural science, forensic science, criminal justice, industrial technology, or a related field.

Experience
Forensic Scientist 9
No specific type or amount is required.

Forensic Scientist 10
One year of professional experience working in a crime laboratory carrying out a variety of tests, analyses or production and research activities involving chemical, biochemical, biological or physical evidence samples, specimens, or products equivalent to a Forensic Scientist 9.

Forensic Scientist P11
Two years of professional experience working in a crime laboratory carrying out a variety of tests, analyses or production and research activities involving chemical, biochemical, biological or physical evidence samples, specimens, or products equivalent to a Forensic Scientist, including one year equivalent to a Forensic Scientist 10.

Qualifications

Forensic Scientist 9
Firearms Specialty:
Individuals possessing a bachelor’s degree in any major and at least two years of State Police Specialist experience performing firearms and toolmarks examinations in the Michigan State Police Forensic Science Division.

Special Requirements, Licenses, and Certifications
Positions in this class are test-designated and subject to pre-appointment, random-selection, and post-accident drug and alcohol testing.

Firearms Specialty: Positions in the State Police Laboratory firearms and toolmarks area require possession of a bachelor’s degree with a major in physical science, natural science, forensic science, criminal justice, industrial technology, or a related field.

Additional Information

This position will be filled as either a Specialist Trooper 11 or a Forensic Scientist 9-11.

As a condition of employment, the selected applicant is required to submit a DNA sample for inclusion into the DNA Staff Index.

This position requires passing a pre-employment screening, including passing a drug screen, criminal history background check and a fingerprint check by the Michigan State Police.

Please attach a cover memo, resume and a copy of your official college transcripts to your application. Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted. Please upload each document separately.

Please note: Applicants will be screened out for failure to attach the required resume and cover letter to their application.

All applicants will be screened using the following criteria, and in addition to answering the questions on their application, should address the following in their cover letter: