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.