Forensic Laboratory Officer

An exciting opportunity to join the Cheshire Constabulary Forensic Laboratory as a Forensic Laboratory Officer has arisen. This is a rare opportunity to enter a unique and very rewarding profession in which the variety and nature of work is extremely diverse. Due to the ever-changing challenges of policing, the laboratory is continually looking at new and improved methods to assist with these techniques, meaning that the role is constantly evolving.

Reporting to the Forensic Laboratory Manager, you will work within a small team to provide an excellent service to both the Forensic Investigations Department and Investigating Officers, with an end goal of helping to detect crime and keep Cheshire safe.

Working to Standard Operating Procedures and International Standards including ISO17025, you will use chemical and physical techniques to visualise and recover trace evidence to further the investigations of a wide range of crimes.

The successful applicant will have:

• meticulous attention to detail, good concentration and accurate record keeping skills
• excellent communication skills both verbally and electronically
• the confidence to work closely with senior officers and with other departments within Forensic Investigations
• the ability to take on a high level of responsibility
• a high level of motivation with a positive attitude and willingness to support others
• the ability to work methodically and reliably under pressure
• a willingness to work on your own initiative within a documented framework of instruction
• experience working to, and meeting, strict deadlines
• an adaptable and approachable attitude

You must also be prepared to attend court to provide evidence, and upon completion of training, the position also involves attending major crime scenes across Cheshire when requested by a Crime Scene Manager.

Applicants must be prepared to undertake a police van driving test.

Suitable candidates will be educated to a minimum of degree level in a scientific discipline.

Two years previous laboratory experience is essential, and a sound knowledge of forensic techniques will be an advantage.

Due to the nature of the role it will be necessary to provide Biometric samples (fingerprints and DNA) for inclusion on the elimination database for routine speculative searching purposes.

This post is subject to an enhanced level of vetting which must be satisfied before appointment.

Starting salary dependent upon experience.