Home | About DFS | Employment Opportunities | Employment FAQ

Employment FAQ

  • What information should I include on my application?

  • You should describe in detail all of your training and experience on your application, to include both paid and volunteer work. Ensure that all sections of the application are completed, including employment eligibility status, veteran status, salary history, and criminal convictions. It is very important that you provide complete and detailed information about your qualifications so your application can be accurately evaluated. To further describe your job duties and/or experience, you may attach a cover letter, resume, curriculum vitae, or other documents. Please note, however, that attaching a resume or CV does not substitute for a completed application.

  • How will my application be evaluated?

  • The qualifications contained in your application, along with those of all other applicants, will be compared against the knowledge, skills, abilities and other qualifications needed for the position.

  • When will I be notified if I’m selected for an interview?

  • You will be contacted if you are selected for an interview. This may take as long as a few weeks after the job posting closes. You will be notified via email if you are not selected for an interview.

  • How can I check my status for a position?

  • You may review the status of your application at any time by choosing the "Application Status" link in your personal account in RMS.

  • Are there any special conditions involved with working at DFS?

  • Criminal Conviction Investigation: In order to provide user agencies and the criminal justice system the assurance of forensic analyses of the highest caliber and integrity, the Department conducts a comprehensive criminal investigation on all selected candidates. A determination of either a job-related conviction or falsified conviction information on the application may result in denial of employment. The state application for employment requires applicants to describe any convictions of law violation(s), including moving traffic violations, but excludes offenses committed before one's eighteenth birthday. DNA sample: Because DFS employees work in proximity to submitted crime scene evidence, it is necessary for all employees of the agency to have their DNA sampled and maintained in department files. The DNA sample is obtained via buccal swab (saliva sample). Legal Eligibility for Employment: The Department of Forensic Science hires individuals that are legally authorized to work in the United States. Within the first three days of employment, you will be required to present evidence of your identity and legal authorization to work. Grant funded (restricted) positions: Some positions are grant funded (restricted). This means the salary and other costs associated with the position are paid from grant funds rather than general funds. You will be advised of the restrictions that may apply if you are offered employment in a grant funded position. Wage employment: A wage employee (part-time hourly) is limited to working 1500 hours in a 365-day period and is excluded from participating in the state's vacation, retirement, health, and life insurance programs.

  • How often is the job list updated?

  • The list of vacancies in the “Employment Opportunities” section of our website  is kept current.

  • What are the work hours?

  • The work hours for most classified positions in our labs are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Alternate work schedules are available for most positions.

  • What benefit programs are available?

  • A summary of benefits plans available to Virginia employees is available at: http://www.dhrm.virginia.gov/employeebenefits

  • What if I need help applying?

  • If you need assistance with the application/interview process or have a question about a position, contact the Human Resource Office at 804.786.0150.