Division Overview:

The Montana Forensic Science Division (FSD) is an internationally accredited state Forensic Laboratory, processing various forms of crime scene evidence received from law enforcement agencies across the state of Montana. FSD’s mission is to provide accurate, objective and timely forensic analysis in support of the Montana criminal justice community.

Department of Justice employs approximately 35 FSD forensic analysts who complete critical work that includes: identifying mysterious powders or pills, determining quantities of various substances in a person’s body, extracting DNA from a blood stain, matching fired bullets to the gun, or revealing fingerprints on ATM machine, to name a few examples.

The FSD is also home to the State Medical Examiner’s office. Around 750-850 autopsies are performed each year between the Missoula and Billings facilities to determine cause and manner of death in unattended or suspicious circumstances.

The Montana State Crime Lab proudly serves the criminal justice community and the people of Montana.

The State Medical Examiner’s Office vision statement is:

We strive to create a partnership between Medical Examiners and Coroners to promote the health, well-being, and safety of the citizens of Montana through education, service, and compassionate, professional death investigation.

Job Overview:

The FSD’s Autopsy Assistants are responsible for the following:

• Postmortem examination preparation, which includes but is not limited to maintenance and preparation of pathologist instruments, assistant instruments, photography equipment, personal protective equipment, and appropriate documentation paperwork.
• Postmortem examination including, but not limited to, assisting with collection of toxicology samples and evidence, labeling, photography for identification, documentation of pertinent findings, logging of property, decedent positioning, appropriate dissection under supervision, and obtaining X-rays and/or fingerprints.
• After examination tasks which involve decedent preparation for release, cleaning instruments and autopsy room, re-stocking supplies, release of decedent and evidence using appropriate chain-of-custody practice, downloading autopsy photographs, and preparing copies of files for law enforcement.
• Other duties as assigned in support of the agency mission and objectives.

Successful candidates should have a basic understanding of human anatomy and physiology and be able to understand autopsy procedures and practices. The work requires toleration of unpleasant odors and exposure to distressing procedures and circumstances.

Additional requirements include attention to detail, ability to lift and manipulate heavy objects, confidentiality, and maintenance of quality, safety, and infection control standards.

The autopsy assistant is expected to work effectively with a variety of professionals, including physicians, law enforcement agencies, coroners, and funeral home directors.

This position is one of two part-time assistants working assigned to the Missoula and Billings crime labs. Autopsy Assistants report to the Chief Medical Examiner and work under the direction of the respective State Deputy Medical Examiner.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma.
• One year of job-related work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Three years of job-related work experience, in a medical, mortuary, or emergency services environment.

Special Instructions:

The selection procedures to be used in evaluating the applicant's qualification may include but are not limited to an evaluation of the résumé and cover letter, a structured interview, performance test, academic transcripts, reference/background checks and fingerprint checks.

Additional materials, references or information submitted by the applicant, but not requested, will not be considered.

Successful applicant(s) will be subject to:

• Criminal History Fingerprint Check
• Intensive Background Check
• Driving History check
• Pre-employment Drug Screening

REAL ID Compliant Credential Required and/or Passport:

• State employees are required to present legally binding photo identification at the time of hire. Generally, this is a valid driver license, U.S. Passport or Employment Authorization ID (Form I-766).
• All DOJ positions require a valid REAL ID or U.S. Passport within 60 days of hire, effective May 3, 2023.

For further information go to https://mtrealid.gov or https://www.dhs.gov/real-id-frequently-asked-questions.

HOW TO APPLY:

To be considered for this position, you must attach a résumé at the time of application.

Tip: When attaching your resume you must mark each of the attachments as a “Relevant File”.

Your Résumé: Please include all work experience as well as job duties that demonstrate your qualifications for this position. Include dates of employment (month & year- start & end) and the reason you left each job.

A complete online state application is not required. To initiate an application, attach the résumé to be considered for this position. Failure to attach a résumé will result in an incomplete application that will not be considered further.

Only electronic applications will be accepted. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. Please submit DD214 to Terri Christianson Terese.Christianson@mt.gov via File Transfer Service.

To request an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR office.

Your service is rewarded with competitive compensation and generous State of Montana Benefits.

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Generous paid vacation, sick and holidays
• Pre-tax Flexibility Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program

State of Montana employment may qualify for student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

This Organization Participates in E-Verify.

Minorities are under-represented in this position and are encouraged to apply.