Leadership Associate; Managerial; Target Class: Forensic Biology & DNA Quality Assurance Manag

Introduction

Are you seeking career growth as DESPP employee? If so, consider this new and exciting opportunity! The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is recruiting for one (1)
Leadership Associate (Managerial) designated for development into the Forensic Biology & DNA Quality Assurance Manager role to join our team within the Division of Scientific Services located in Meriden, Connecticut.

THE ROLE This position is full-time, onsite, following a first shift schedule, 40 hours per week. As a general recruitment, the Leadership Associate (Managerial) will be recruited to work within the Administrative Section reporting to the Laboratory Quality Assurance Manager. This Leadership Associate position will participate in a formal development program designed to provide the incumbent with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to qualify for appointment to the designated Forensic Biology and DNA Quality Assurance Manager (MP Pay Plan) classification.

During the working test period and development program, the incumbent will work under the guidance of the Laboratory Quality Assurance Manager and senior laboratory leadership to gain progressive responsibility in quality system oversight, accreditation compliance, policy development, audits, corrective actions, and inter-unit coordination specific to forensic biology and DNA operations. The Leadership Associate will support the quality system for the Forensic Biology and DNA Units while developing the competencies required of the first-level managerial role within the professional confidential series.

Upon successful completion of the required development program and minimum working test period, the incumbent will be reclassified to the designated Forensic Biology and DNA Quality Assurance Manager (6401MP) position. POSITION HIGHLIGHTS Ensures compliance with the Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) established by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) or current laboratory accrediting body, and the International organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission (ISO/IEC 17025);
Coordinates, plans and manages quality assurance activities and ensures adherence to all applicable national and international standards for quality in the forensic biology and DNA disciplines;
Formulates program goals and objectives;
Develops or assists in the development of related policy;
Interprets pertinent laws;
Maintains contacts with individuals within and outside of the programs who might impact program activities;
Oversees development, preparation and maintenance of laboratory standard operating procedures and quality assurance manuals to meet current standards;
Ensures all Forensic Biology and DNA are staff trained in critical requirements of quality control;
Monitors quality assurance data and initiates corrective action and/or documentation as required;
Serves as a key liaison with accrediting bodies regarding inspection activities including attending inspection exit interviews and preparation of response to written inspection reports;
Oversees compliance in laboratory safety and security standards relevant to Forensic Biology and DNA;
Performs investigations of quality concerns performing internal audits of laboratory upon direction of the Deputy Director of Forensic Biology and DNA;
Assists the Laboratory Quality Assurance Manager in managing the laboratory quality program Performs related duties as required. ABOUT US DESPP is committed to protecting and improving the quality of life for all by providing a broad range of public safety services, training, regulatory guidance, and scientific services utilizing enforcement, prevention, education and state of the art science and technology. DESPP is structured on three key Strategic Pillars created by Commissioner Ronnell Higgins.

1. Operational Efficiency, Efficacy and Excellence
• Making decisions through the thoughtful and informed use of data
• Challenging the 'that's the way it's always been done' construct—i.e., thinking outside the box as to how we can improve
• Constantly seeking better results…