Forensic Laboratory Assistant

Nevada HIDTA Job Announcement

Location: Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Division

Nevada HIDTA is seeking a qualified Forensic Laboratory Assistant assigned to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Division. This is not a position with Washoe County. The selected Laboratory Assistant will not be considered a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency employee. 

The Nevada HIDTA program operates in accordance with the goals and objectives of the National Drug Control Strategy, Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), and the Nevada HIDTA Executive Board. The goals of the Nevada HIDTA Program include enhancing partner agency capabilities, information and intelligence sharing, coordination of efforts to investigate drug trafficking and related crimes, gang crime reduction, reduction of violent crime, removing firearms from criminals, and partnering with community organizations and public health to reduce the consequences of substance use with an emphasis on drug overdose reduction through a national strategy. 

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES INCLUDE

• Duties performed will vary based on assignment under the supervision of the Firearms Section Supervising Criminalist in coordination with the Nevada HIDTA Director.
• Operate equipment, specialized instrument software and computer applications. 
• Collect, receive, preserve, and handle physical evidence such as biological samples, impressions, firearms, etc. 
• Perform basic forensic analysis, such as latent print processing, firearm database activities, etc., on submitted evidence following laboratory policies and procedures.
• Perform basic safety checks and test fire various types of firearms.
• Implement evidence control, maintain chain of custody, and preserve the integrity of evidence while in the custody of the division.
• Maintain accurate examination records for the analysis of evidence to support written reports. Document findings and conclusions in written reports. 
• Assist in routine maintenance and quality assurance checks of laboratory equipment and instrumentation. Perform routine cleaning and upkeep of laboratory rooms and equipment.
• Assist with purchasing and stocking of laboratory supplies. 
• Assist with training for local and regional law enforcement agencies and members of the judicial system.
• Research firearm evidence in accordance with ATF NIBIN.
• Analyze and interpret the processed crime gun information.
• Evaluate the significance and validity of collected information.
• Draw fact-driven, analytical conclusions based on that analysis.
• Communicate analytical conclusions in written and oral format.
• Internet navigation and open-source intelligence research.
• Researching and writing briefs pertaining to; target profile.
• Maintain accurate and complete records.
• Participate in the Nevada HIDTA threat assessments, annual reports, officer Safety Bulletins, and newsletter production.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Must be able to perform effectively with forensic personnel, criminal intelligence analysts, detectives, and agents working on task forces.
• Ability to follow standard laboratory test or calibration methods and procedures.
• Ability to understand oral and written instructions.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas both orally and in writing.
• Ability to receive, collect, research, and/or analyze information and data.
• Ability to distinguish microscopic features on firearms related evidence.
• Work under pressure, exercise good judgement, and make sound and timely decisions.
• Work independently on assignments and complete assignments within a timely manner.
• Maintain confidentiality of case information.
• Successfully complete the ATF NIBIN Acquisition and Correlation training programs.
• Testify in court.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.
• A thorough law enforcement background investigation is required.
• Must being willing to submit a DNA elimination sample.
• Proficiency and demonstrated skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel.
• Effectively plan and organize work to meet schedules and timelines.
• Ability to remain flexible working in a fast-paced multi-responsibility mission critical operation.
• Work weekends and holidays as needed in the event of an emergency.
• Understanding or ability to learn federal, state, and local guidelines, applicable laws, regulations, policies and procedures regarding evidence and intelligence collection, retention and sharing of criminal intelligence.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Three years of full-time experience in a scientific laboratory environment processing test samples and maintaining or operating basic lab equipment; OR a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a natural, physical, or environmental science or a closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• The ability to represent Washoe County Sheriff’s Office and Nevada HIDTA professionally in all encounters.
• Best candidates will have extensive investigative experience.
• High proficiency using computers and software necessary to successfully accomplish the requirements of the position.
• Ability to manage projects, self-starter, and implementation skills are essential.

APPOINTMENT AND COMPENSATION

This is a grant funded position; renewal of the grant is based on performance and the Office of National Drug Control Program (ONDCP) funds. 

The employee must be able to pass a comprehensive law enforcement background investigation and a federal security clearance which includes but is not limited to a criminal records check; credit history verification; employment background; general personal history and other information. The employee must also meet standards set by Nevada HIDTA and the agency where the HIDTA employee is deployed.

The selected Laboratory Assistant will not be considered a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency employee. HIDTA funded employees serve by virtue of an annually renewable contract based on performance and the availability of continued funding. This position is full-time and includes benefits; health insurance, life insurance, retirement benefits, annual or sick leave provided through Strategic Contracting Services, a Nevada HIDTA HR contractor. 

The annual salary for this position is $55,000 per year. The work week is 40-hour week, the daily shift hours may vary.

Please submit interest in this position by clicking this link and submitting by October 10, 2025.