Forensic Chemist I

Workplace
On-site

About this role

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9/25/2026 (11:59 PM ET)
2604887
Forensic Chemist I
Pay Grade 14
Salary
$50,000.00 Annually
Employment Type
EXECUTIVE BRANCH | FULL TIME | ELIGIBLE FOR OVERTIME PAY | 18A | 40.0 HR/WK
Hiring Agency
Justice & Public Safety Cabinet | Kentucky State Police
Location
100 Sower Boulevard, Suite 102
Frankfort, KY 40601 USA
Description
Kentucky State Police is the premier, full-service law enforcement agency in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With the highest level of professionalism and integrity the Kentucky State Police works to prevent, reduce, and deter crime and the fear of crime; enhance highway safety through education and enforcement; protect and safeguard individual rights; and provide leadership, training, technical, and operational support to the criminal justice community.

A Forensic Chemist hired for Trace Analysis will be trained to work several different disciplines within the Trace Analysis section. Due to the nature of Trace Analysis, evidence submissions may include ignitable liquids, hairs, fibers, glass, paint, tape, gunshot residue, and unknown specimens. Court room testimony of analytical results are required.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Analyzes substances submitted by law enforcement agencies to determine properties and identity, and to determine whether an association exists between materials.
  • Receives specialized training in designated forensic disciplines.
  • Compiles and reviews laboratory reports regarding analysis of submitted evidence.
  • Maintains review of work-related literature and other documents.
  • Provides testimony throughout the Commonwealth pertaining to forensic analysis and reports.
  • Receives and releases evidence and is responsible for the security of such evidence until released.
  • Maintains laboratory instrumentation.
  • Responds to crime scenes and other work-related special details.
Skills and Expectations include but are not limited to the following:
  • Significant attention to detail.
  • Strong written and verbal communication.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Strong problem solver.
If you are interested in a challenging yet rewarding career as a Kentucky State Police Forensic Chemist, we would love to review your application.
Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION: Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, forensic science, or a related science field.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR SKILLS: NONE

Substitute EDUCATION for EXPERIENCE: NONE

Substitute EXPERIENCE for EDUCATION: NONE

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS (AGE, LICENSURE, REGULATION, ETC.): NONE
Working Conditions
Incumbents in this classification will typically perform their job duties in a forensic laboratory setting. May have some contact with contagious diseases and/or body fluids or regular exposure to noxious odors, chemical substances, and biohazardous compounds, which may require the following of safety procedures. Regular handling of sharp surgical instruments.
Probationary Period
This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 12 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.
If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Jack Reid at jack.reid@ky.gov.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D
Personnel Cabinet

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