Summary

This job involves overseeing a team of scientists and technicians in the Firearms and Toolmarks Unit of the Michigan State Police lab, ensuring they follow policies, complete training, and manage cases effectively.

The manager acts as a key link between lab leaders and handles operations smoothly, even stepping in as director when needed.

It's a great fit for experienced forensic professionals with leadership skills who value fairness and precision in a law enforcement setting.

Key Requirements

Bachelor's degree in forensic science, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, or a related pure or applied science
Two years of experience as a Forensic Scientist 12, State Police Specialist (Sergeant), or State Police Sergeant 12 in the State Police Forensic Science Division
For Firearms specialty: Bachelor's degree in any major plus two years of specified State Police experience may substitute
For Latent Prints and Questioned Documents: Bachelor's in natural science, criminal justice, forensic science, or related field with 8 semester hours in chemistry, plus two years of specified experience
Ability to ensure technical compliance with unit, departmental, and division policies
Proficiency in case management and training oversight for scientists and examiners
Commitment to bias-free operations and treating all individuals with dignity and respect

Full Job Description

Find your new career path. Join the MSP.

The primary responsibility of the Laboratory Manager is to ensure the technical compliance with unit policies of scientists, examiners, and technicians working within the Firearms and Toolmarks Unit.

The Laboratory Manager is also responsible for scientist and examiners compliance with departmental and division policies and training requirements.

The Laboratory Manager serves as a liaison between the technical leader and the Laboratory Director. The Laboratory Manager is responsible for case management within the Firearms and Toolmarks Unit.

The Laboratory Manager may serve as acting Laboratory Director in the absence of the Laboratory Director.

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for ensuring scientists and examiners work on discipline specific training until they have reached competency. 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, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology, or a related pure or applied science.

Experience

Two years of experience equivalent to a Forensic Scientist 12 or a State Police Specialist (Sergeant) or State Police Sergeant 12 in the State Police Forensic Science Division.

Qualifications

State Police Laboratory Manager 14

For the Firearm specialty area, possession of a bachelor's degree in any major and two years of experience as a State Police Specialist (Sergeant) or State Police Sergeant 12 in the State Police Forensic Science Division may be substituted for the education and experience requirement.

For the Latent Prints and Questioned Documents specialty areas, possession of a bachelor’s degree in natural science, criminal justice, forensic science, or a related pure or applied science with 8 semester hours in chemistry and two years of experience as a State Police Specialist (Sergeant) or State Police Sergeant 12 in the State Police Forensic Science Division may be substituted for the education and experience requirement.

Additional Information

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 letter/memo, resume, and official college transcripts (if applicable) to your application.

Unofficial transcripts will not be accepted. Please note: Applicants will be screened out for failure to attach the required resume, cover letter/memo, and (if applicable) official transcripts to their application.

MSP Enlisted Applicants

Applicants must have previously taken and passed the State Police Lieutenants Examination (No. 2022) to be considered for positions in this classification.

Applicants must be eligible for selection pursuant to Official Order 03-41 - Impact of discipline or corrective action on selection eligibility. Applicants must also be able to perform the essential duties of the job upon appointment.

Possession of a valid Michigan driver's license

Specific positions may require that applicants have experience in specialized areas. View the entire job specification at:

https://www.michigan.gov/mdcs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdcs/JOBSPECS/S/StatePoliceLaboratoryManager.pdf

The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.