Forensic Science Technician

Forensic Science Technician

Salary

$47,715.20 - $70,720.00 Annually

Location

Ankeny - 50023 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-00309

Agency

595 Iowa Department of Public Safety

Opening Date

08/05/2026

Closing Date

9/6/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Kelli Flanagan (flanagan@dps.state.ia.us)

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

This is not a remote position.

The Iowa Department of Public Safety is seeking to fill a Forensic Science Technician position specializing in Drug Chemistry within the Division of Criminal Investigation's Criminalistics Laboratory.

Organization Background

The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa.

DPS is comprised of the following divisions:

• Iowa State Patrol
• Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI)
• Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement
• Iowa State Fire Marshal
• Division of Professional Development and Support Services
• Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center
• Administrative Services Division

Job Description

The Forensic Science Technician position performs a variety of routine tasks in direct support of forensic laboratory analysts, primarily in the Drug Chemistry section. These tasks include, but are not limited to;

• preparing reagents and stock solutions by predetermined procedures for use in routine tests
• conducting quality assurance checks of reagents, balances, instrumentation, and safety equipment,
• maintaining inventory of chemicals and laboratory consumables
• performing routine instrument maintenance
• opening suspected cannabis cases under the direct supervision of case working analysts.
• serve on the laboratory crime scene response team in collecting, documenting, and photographing potential items of evidence (optional).

Travel across the state of Iowa may be required for crime scene duties or continuing education, with the potential to be away from the Des Moines area overnight on occasion.

General work hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., however crime scene responsibilities may require hours outside of these times.

Special Requirements

Must possess, at minimum, an associates degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, forensic science, physics or a closely related physical or natural laboratory science.

A bachelors or advanced degree in one of these scientific disciplines will also be accepted.

Additional Requirements

• The State of Iowa is an E-Verify Employer.
• Candidates must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety investigators before a final letter of employment offer is delivered.
• Applicants must be able to travel and may be occasionally required to stay away from home overnight during assignments.
• Applicants are encouraged to attach a cover letter, transcripts, and resume with the NEOGOV application.
• This is not a remote position.

Benefits

At the State of Iowa, we value our employees' talents and backgrounds, and we are committed to your well-being beyond the paycheck. As a valued team member, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

Paid Time Off:

• Vacation accruals that begin on day one and rollover on a yearly basis
• Unlimited sick leave accrual
• Nine (9) paid holidays per year

Insurance Options:

• Health - Affordable plans with the state paying more than 90% of premiums
• Dental - Free for single coverage and affordable family coverage with access to a vision discount program
• Life - $20,000 in life insurance free, with an option to purchase additional coverage (depending upon Collective Bargaining Agreements)
• Long-Term Disability Insurance - Available at no cost

Retirement:

• IPERS Retirement package offering a lifetime monthly financial benefit for vested employees. For every $1 an employee contributes, the state matches with $1.50
• Retirement Investors' Club (RIC) offering a voluntary savings program including a State match of up to $75/month

Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care

Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs

To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage: Benefits at a Glance | Iowa Department of Administrative Services

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must possess an associates degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related field to qualify for positions in this job classification.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Additional Qualification Requirements

Applicants for this job class must be able to pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Division of Criminal Investigation.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?

Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Do you have an associates degree (or higher) specifically in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related field?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 595 Iowa Department of Public Safety Address 215 E 7th St

Des Moines, Iowa, 50319

Website https://dps.iowa.gov/