Forensic Science Internship – Oregon State Police - Statewide Opportunities

Job Description :

The Forensic Services Division within Oregon State Police is hiring for multiple, Temporary Forensic Science Intern positions statewide.

• This is an unpaid internship opportunity with the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division
• This will be an in-office position without the opportunity for a remote or hybrid work schedule.

Studies have shown that people from underrepresented backgrounds are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet all the qualifications and preferred skills described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job and recognize that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you meet key qualifications for the job and believe you would be a good fit, we encourage you to apply; please use your resume and cover letter to address your qualifications and the preferred skills for this position.

The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.

If you require an alternate format to complete the employment process, or to request a copy of the position description, please contact and reference REQ-191718.

Agency Overview :

The Department of State Police (OSP) is a statewide law enforcement program. Founded in 1931, the mission of the Oregon State Police is to serve the State of Oregon with a diverse workforce dedicated to the protection of people, property, and natural resources. The purpose of the Forensic Services Division (FSD) is to serve the people of Oregon with the highest standards of science, ethics, and professionalism in recovering, preserving, and analyzing physical evidence. The FSD provides unbiased scientific and technical services to all branches of the Criminal Justice System.

To learn more about the Forensic Services Division, .

Summary of Job Duties :

As an intern, you will perform technical and scientific functions as they relate to assigned internship projects. Projects may be in any of the Forensic Services Division’s five laboratories (Bend, Central Point, Pendleton, Portland Metro, Springfield) and may be related to Biology Processing (Serology), DNA, Drug Chemistry, Field Investigations (Crime Scenes), Firearms, Impressions, Latent Prints, Toxicology, and / or Trace. You will be assigned to and work directly with a mentor who will coordinate your duties within the laboratory.

Minimum Qualifications / Eligibility Requirements :

You must be currently enrolled in an accredited university or college pursuing a degree in a natural science such as biology, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, physics, forensic science, pharmacology, bacteriology, or a closely related field. You must be in at least your second year of science studies. Please note this posting is to fill summer 2026 internship positions; if your anticipated graduation date is prior to summer 2026, you will not meet the minimum qualification of being currently enrolled at the time of the internship.

Upon request, you must provide official transcripts from all institutions of higher education that were used to meet the minimum qualifications, as well as personal / professional references.

Preferred Skills :

Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Experience with scientific techniques and / or equipment

Ability to communicate technical and non-technical information in an effective and professional manner, both verbally and in writing

Ability to analyze information objectively and think critically and creatively

Ability to work well in a stressful environment

The use of outside resources such as Artificial Intelligence software during applicant skill assessments, examinations, and / or interviews is prohibited unless otherwise stated by the hiring agency. Unauthorized use of outside resources during the hiring process will result in disqualification.

Working Conditions :

This position may be subject to handling firearms, broken glass, syringes, odoriferous materials, blood, urine and other body fluids that may come from diseased persons, or clothing that may be infected with hazardous biological materials. May be required to work with caustic and flammable chemical s or be exposed to toxic, carcinogenic, radioactive, or otherwise hazardous substances. Must follow proper safety precautions and practices.

Selection Process :

The process will be comprised of the following evaluation assessment (subject to change).

Evaluation of education

Supplemental Questionnaire

Virtual Interview