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Employment FAQ

  • What information should I include on my application?

  • You should describe in detail all of your relevant training and experience on your application and/or resume, to include both paid and volunteer work. Ensure that all mandatory sections of the application are completed, including employment eligibility status, veteran status, and any applicable education, licenses, certifications and required documents (such as transcripts). It is very important that you provide complete and detailed information about your qualifications so your application/resume can be accurately evaluated.

  • How will my application be evaluated?

  • The hiring manager will review the applications, resumes, and supporting documents to determine which applicants best meet all of the required minimum qualifications and some, if not all of the additional considerations as listed in the job posting.

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

  • You will be contacted if you are selected for an interview. The applicants possessing the most qualifications will be invited by the respective Laboratory for an interview. Please be patient, as the Lab must schedule time for reviewing and interviewing applicants while also producing case work. It sometimes takes a few weeks to get to the interviewing stage of the recruitment process.

  • 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 within Virginia Jobs account (jobs.virginia.gov).

  • How often is the job list updated?

  • The list of vacancies in the “Employment Opportunities” section of our website is kept current. Submit your email address to “subscribe” and receive updates when new positions become available.

  • What are the work hours?

  • Typical work hours for classified positions in our labs are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Alternate work schedules are available and approved by supervisor discretion.

  • What benefit programs are available?

  • To view benefits offered by the Commonwealth, please visit: https://www.dhrm.virginia.gov/employeebenefits. Here, you will find links to health benefits, retirement plans, holiday and leave, etc.

  • 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.

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

  • DNA and Fingerprint sample: DFS employees work in proximity to submitted crime scene evidence. Due to this proximity, it is a necessity for all employees of the agency to have their DNA and fingerprint sample taken. These samples are maintained in the DFS Staff DNA Index and Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) respectively. The purpose of this is to eliminate any possibility that an identified DNA profile or latent print may belong to DFS staff who came into contact with the evidence and/or the location/equipment/supplies that were used during an examination. 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. 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 following is a list of automatic disqualifiers for employment, contract work or internship with DFS:
    • Any felony conviction if the position could require testimony in a court of law, financial management of state resources, or access to sensitive information, including access to federal tax information or other financial information.
    • Any conviction that requires registration on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry.
    • Any misdemeanor conviction involving lying, cheating, or stealing if the position could require testimony in a court of law, financial management of state resources, or access to sensitive information, including access to federal tax information or other financial information.
    • Any pending criminal charge for a violation that would otherwise be considered a disqualifier.
    • Active revocation or suspension of driving privileges in any state if the position requires operation of DFS vehicles.
    • A conviction of driving under the influence in the last five (5) years if the position requires operation of DFS vehicles or driving as part of the job duties.
    • Any illegal use of a Schedule I or II controlled substance (listed in Title 54.1 or the Code of Virginia) in the past five (5) years.
    • The illegal sale of any drug.
    • Any substantive and/or intentional failure to accurately disclose information pertinent to the full, preliminary, or abbreviated background investigation.
    • Documented untruthfulness during the application process.