Post-Conviction/Conviction Integrity DNA Specialist

Position Details

Job Title: Post-Conviction/Conviction Integrity DNA Specialist (383)

Reports to: Chief Deputy

Level: Entry

Salary: $80,000 - $90,000

Grade/Step: 20 (Non-Union)

Location: 2650 S California

Bureau: Administrative Services

Division/Unit: Post-Conviction/Conviction Integrity

Application Deadline: May 30, 2025

Working Environment: Hours: Monday Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Primary Function:

Act as an integral resource on post-conviction cases involving DNA evidence, assist ASA's with understanding the analysis request(s) involving DNA evidence, assisting with determining where evidence is being stored, serve as a liaison with crime lab and other forensic resources. Also assist with explaining the value of the results, and help determine if additional testing should be completed.

Physical Requirements:

Light Work: The position requires the ability to stand or walk frequently, often for extended periods. You may need to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 20 pounds regularly, and occasionally heavier items. The job may also involve a significant amount of walking or standing relative to sedentary roles.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Must be able to assist with the reviewing of crime scene photos and evidence rosters at area police departments to identify possible evidence that could contain DNA on post-conviction cases.
• Must be able to assist with the reviewing of actual evidence at police departments to assist with locating evidence that could contain DNA suitable for analysis on post-conviction cases.
• Must be able to review and evaluate reports or opinions authored by defense experts.
• Must be able to coordinate with laboratory analysis request paperwork and submission of evidence to be tested.
• Must be able to negotiate testing path and turnaround time with laboratory conducting the DNA analysis.
• Must be able to provide information regarding technical and non-technical DNA issues with regard to post-conviction cases.
• Must be able to review lab reports upon completion and evaluate the need for additional analysis.
• Must be able to explain the value of laboratory results to assist with decisions for proceeding.
• Must make sure all steps are taken to ensure that any profiles generated by a private lab can be searched in the DNA database housed by the ISP and FBI.
• Must be able to assist with evidence return from the lab and back to the police agency or clerk's office.
• Interacts regularly with State's Attorney's Office employees.
• Interacts with outside agencies.
• Regular access to confidential information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required:

• The candidate must have a BA degree in a core science.
• A minimum of three years' experience in a forensic lab.
• The candidate must have excellent communication skills both oral and written.
• The candidate must be able to work in high pressure situations and be able to meet deadlines,
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel applications required

Preferred:

• Minimum of three years' experience in an Illinois Crime Lab.

Equal Employment Opportunity

EEO Message: The Cook County State's Attorney's Office (CCSAO) is an equal opportunity employer, which seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. The CCSAO does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Upon request, the CCSAO will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals due to a disability or pregnancy. The EEOP report can be found on our website at www.cookcountystatesattorney.org.