Employment Opportunities at NLCL

Welcome to the Employment Opportunities page of the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory (NLCL). If you are passionate about forensic science and eager to make a meaningful impact in the field, you are in the right place. At NLCL, we pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of forensic analysis, and we are always looking to expand our team with talented individuals who share our commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation.

Why Join the NLCL?

Our laboratory offers a dynamic and supportive work environment where the professional growth of our employees is a top priority. Working with us means being part of a team that values collaboration and continuous learning. We are dedicated to solving complex problems, advancing forensic science, and contributing positively to our community.

What We Offer

Career Development: Opportunities for professional growth through training and education, participation in conferences, and involvement in groundbreaking projects.

Competitive Benefits: Attractive salary packages, health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art technology and tools necessary to perform high-quality forensic work.

Diverse Workforce: An inclusive culture that respects diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive.

  • Current Openings

    Our current vacancies are listed below. Each listing provides detailed information about the role, qualifications required, and the application process. We encourage you to review these opportunities and apply to those that align with your skills and career aspirations.

  • How to Apply

    To apply for a position at NLCL, please submit your resume, cover letter, transcripts (if required), and any other required documents. Detailed instructions and requirements for the application process are provided with each job posting.

Current Openings:

No openings at this time. Please visit our site periodically to check for new opportunities. Thank you!

Stay Connected: If there are no current positions that match your qualifications, we encourage you to stay connected with us by following us on our social media channels for updates on new opportunities.

 FAQs

  • The minimum requirements for positions at the NLCL vary depending on the specific role. Generally, positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, chemistry, biology, or a related field. For DNA analysts, in compliance with the Quality Assurance Standards (QAS), the following courses are mandatory:

    Biochemistry , Genetics, Molecular Biology, Statistics

    For roles in our Toxicology and Chemistry disciplines, while not a direct requirement, we highly recommend additional coursework in:

    Physical Chemistry, Instrumental Analysis, Biochemistry (especially for toxicology), Analytical Chemistry , Pharmacology (Toxicology), Physiology (Toxicology)

    These courses are beneficial in addition to traditional Chemistry degree programs and are strongly recommended to enhance proficiency and understanding in these specialized areas.

    Additionally, a guiding document for toxicology laboratory personnel can be found here.

    While we recognize the academic rigor of Criminal Justice degrees, our laboratory is primarily focused on laboratory-based disciplines. These require an undergraduate background in areas such as biology, chemistry, and forensic science. We typically recommend that applicants with Criminal Justice degrees consider opportunities in police crime scene programs or laboratories that specialize in those fields. This ensures alignment between educational backgrounds and the specific requirements of forensic roles.

    Additional requirements may include relevant professional experience, specific technical skills, certifications, and a clear criminal background check. Detailed qualifications for each position are listed in the job postings.

  • While popular shows like "CSI" capture the excitement and intrigue of forensic science, working at the NLCL involves a more detailed and methodical approach to crime scene investigation and laboratory work. Our work is grounded in rigorous scientific methods, attention to detail, and adherence to legal standards, which are essential for accurate and reliable results that support the justice system. This is especially true in our firearms discipline, where the work involves much more than just shooting guns. It requires significant laboratory time spent under the microscope and extensive report writing.

  • We value candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to the field of forensic science and a keen attention to detail. Other important qualities include critical thinking, problem-solving skills, integrity, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. We also look for individuals who are committed to continuous learning and professional development. Importantly, all our staff are expected to demonstrate initiative, taking proactive steps to address challenges and contribute to ongoing projects and improvements.

  • A typical day at the NLCL varies depending on the specific role and department. Generally, it may involve analyzing forensic samples, documenting and reporting results, participating in case reviews, and collaborating with law enforcement and legal professionals. Technicians and scientists may spend substantial time in the laboratory conducting tests and experiments, while administrative and support staff manage operational and logistical tasks. Regular team meetings and ongoing training sessions are also a crucial part of our work environment to ensure compliance with the highest standards of forensic science.