Job Description
Salary : $47,715.20 - $70,720.00 Annually
Location : Ankeny - 50023 - Polk County, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 27-01092
Agency: 595 Iowa Department of Public Safety
Opening Date: 10/28/2026
Closing Date: 11/11/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag: #LI-POST
Point of Contact: James Bleskacek (bleskace@dps.state.ia.us)
Job Description This is not a remote position. The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking to fill a Forensic Science Technician position within the Division of Criminal Investigation's Criminalistics Laboratory.
Organization Background The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a statewide law enforcement agency committed to serving the people of Iowa with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. We uphold the core values of courtesy, service, and protection, and collaborate with federal, state, and local jurisdictions within the criminal justice community to provide for the safety of people living in or traveling through the State of Iowa.
DPS is comprised of the following divisions: - Iowa State Patrol
- Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI)
- Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement
- Iowa State Fire Marshal
- Division of Professional Development and Support Services
- Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center
- Administrative Services Division
Job Description This position will primarily serve to certify and repair the evidential breath testing instrument used throughout Iowa and to support the work of Criminalists working in this section. This will include preparing certification reports, preparing testing solutions for instrument calibration, assisting with training law enforcement officers, and documenting activities through paperwork and database entries. Other duties will include contacting law enforcement agencies as needed, performing monthly checks for safety and analytical testing equipment, and maintaining inventory of parts, chemicals and supplies.
Additionally, this position may occasionally assist the toxicology section in sample management and opening of blood and urine cases for testing by Criminalists in that section. After initial training, this position may also be eligible to serve on the laboratory's crime scene response team.
Communication skills, teamwork and flexibility are essential for success in this role.
Travel across the state of Iowa will be required for transporting evidential breath testing instruments to law enforcement agencies throughout Iowa. Travel may also be required for courtroom testimony and continuing education, with the potential to be away from the Des Moines area overnight on occasion. General work hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., however courtroom testimony responsibilities may require hours outside of these times.
This is a grant funded position. Additional Requirements - Candidates must possess, at minimum, an associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, forensic science, physics or closely related physical or natural laboratory science. A bachelor's or advanced degree in one of these scientific disciplines will also be accepted. Upcoming Fall 2026 semester graduates are eligible to apply.
- Candidates must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the Iowa Department of Public Safety investigators before a final letter of employment offer is delivered.
- Candidates must be able to travel and may be occasionally required to stay away from home overnight during assignments.
- Candidates must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a valid Iowa Driver's License.
- Candidates are encouraged to attach a cover letter, transcripts, and resume within the NEOGOV application.
- The State of Iowa is an E-Verify Employer.
- This is not a remote position.
Benefits At the State of Iowa, we value our employees' talents and backgrounds, and we are committed to your well-being beyond the paycheck. As a valued team member, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Paid Time Off:
- Vacation accruals that begin on day one and rollover on a yearly basis
- Unlimited sick leave accrual
- Nine (9) paid holidays per year
Insurance Options:
- Health - Affordable plans with the state paying more than 90% of premiums
- Dental - Dental - Free for single coverage and affordable family coverage with access to a vision discount program
- Life* - $20,000 in life insurance free, with an option to purchase additional coverage (*depending upon Collective Bargaining Agreements)
- Long-Term Disability Insurance - Available at no cost
Retirement:
- IPERS Retirement package offering a lifetime monthly financial benefit for vested employees. For every $1 an employee contributes, the state matches with $1.50
- Retirement Investors' Club (RIC) offering a voluntary savings program including a State match of up to $75/month
Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs
To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage:
E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal
Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit
Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must possess an associate's degree with an emphasis in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related field to qualify for positions in this job classification.
For additional information, please click on this
Additional Qualification Requirements For select positions, applicants may be required to meet one or more of the additional qualification requirements listed below.
- A minimum of twelve semester hours of education, six months of full-time experience, or an equivalent combination of both in the following areas:
- 072 photography
- 108 DNA analysis
- 005 crime scene
- A minimum of six months of full-time experience in the following areas:
- 049 latent fingerprint development
- 102 firearms
Applicants who wish to be considered for these select positions must describe on the application how each additional qualification requirement is met.
Applicants for this job class must be able to pass a thorough background investigation conducted by the Division of Criminal Investigation.
Travel, including overnight travel, may be required for positions in this class. Employees must arrange transportation to and from assigned work areas
Why Choose the State of Iowa? At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes: Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyGain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning: We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.
Paid Time Off: Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development: Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career: Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01
Do you understand that the information provided on your application and resume must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your knowledge?
Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.
- Yes - I understand and agree
- No
02
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?
- No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
- Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
03
Do you have an Associate's Degree (or higher) specifically in laboratory technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or a related field ?
Required Question
Job Tags
Full time, Local area, Monday to Friday, Flexible hours, Night shift