Forensic Evidence Technician

Forensic Evidence Technician

Location: Augusta, ME
Pay Rate: $22.00 per hour
Schedule: Full-Time, 40 Hours per Week
Work Arrangement: Primarily On-Site
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Our client, The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory (HETL) is seeking a detail-oriented Forensic Evidence Technician to join the Evidence Handling Unit within the Forensic Chemistry Section.

This role serves as both an evidence technician and administrative support professional, ensuring the secure handling, documentation, and tracking of forensic evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies throughout Maine. The successful candidate will play a vital role in maintaining chain of custody, supporting legal proceedings, and ensuring compliance with laboratory and accreditation standards.

Evidence Management & Chain of Custody

• Receive, document, and log forensic evidence submitted by law enforcement agencies.
• Maintain the care, custody, and control of evidence in accordance with laboratory, legal, and accreditation requirements.
• Manage evidence intake appointments and coordinate evidence transfers.
• Ensure accurate chain-of-custody records and documentation.

Legal & Administrative Support

• Receive, process, and distribute subpoenas.
• Prepare, organize, and provide records in response to discovery requests.
• Maintain subpoena and discovery request databases.
• Support prosecutors, law enforcement personnel, and laboratory staff with case-related documentation.

Customer Service & Communication

• Serve as a point of contact for law enforcement agencies, attorneys, and other stakeholders.
• Respond to phone calls, emails, and inquiries in a professional and timely manner.
• Provide guidance and training on evidence packaging, submission procedures, and handling requirements.

Records & Office Administration

• File, organize, and archive case files and laboratory records.
• Copy, scan, fax, and distribute documents as needed.
• Assist with supply ordering and inventory management.
• Participate in staff meetings and support departmental initiatives.

Laboratory & Quality Support

• Assist with maintaining compliance with ISO 17025 accreditation standards.
• Support quality assurance and documentation processes as assigned.
• Provide courtroom testimony related to evidence handling and chain of custody when required.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in an administrative, legal, criminal justice, forensic, or law enforcement environment.
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to accurately manage confidential and sensitive information.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Public Administration, Legal Studies, or a related field.
• Previous experience handling evidence or maintaining chain-of-custody records.
• Experience working in a laboratory, law enforcement, legal, or prosecutorial setting.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Knowledge of forensic evidence procedures and legal documentation processes.
• Experience supporting accreditation or quality management systems.

Key Competencies

• Attention to Detail
• Integrity and Confidentiality
• Time Management
• Organization and Recordkeeping
• Customer Service
• Written and Verbal Communication
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Accountability and Accuracy

Work Environment

• Primarily on-site position located in Augusta, Maine.
• Standard office and laboratory support environment.
• Frequent interaction with law enforcement personnel, attorneys, and laboratory staff.
• May require handling and transporting forensic evidence in accordance with established procedures.
• Limited remote work opportunities may be available based on business needs.

Benefits

At SSO, we invest in your health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include:

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 401(k) with discretionary employer match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible spending accounts
• Additional employee perks