General Overview
Under direction; documents (written and photographic) circumstances surrounding the death of an individual; work alongside law enforcement and in the presence of grieving family members; Collect records and information relevant to determining the cause and manner of death; Convey investigation information verbally, in writing, and through photo-documentation to pathologists and others to provide an understanding of the circumstances surrounding the death.

Performs other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications Any combination of training and work experience which indicates possession of the skills, knowledge and abilities listed below.

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree in forensic science, Criminal Justice, Biology, or a suitable related field
• Within 2 years of acceptance for the position, must obtain and then maintain American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigation Certification
• Prior experience/ Internship/ Training in death investigation
• Knowledge of medical terminology and human anatomy

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and ordinances pertaining to Coroner; forensic investigative techniques; techniques of collection and preservation of evidence; interviewing. Advanced knowledge of photography; department policies and procedures*; court processes and procedures. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions; communicate effectively in written and/or oral form; prepare and maintain accurate documentation; handle sensitive inquiries from and contacts with officials, media, law enforcement personnel, general public, etc.; calculate fractions, decimals, and percentages; prepare and present testimony. Skill in operation/utilization of investigative equipment.

*Indicates skills developed after employment.

Job Duties
The duties listed below are intended to depict tasks performed by this classification.

Job Duty Name Observation and Data Collection

Description of Job Duty

• Conduct and assist in investigations of questionable deaths by obtaining pertinent information by phone and in person at death scenes by interviewing family members, medical personnel, and law enforcement personnel.*
• Collect and analyze information to assist the medical examiner in their determination of cause and manner of death.*
• Take photographic documentation of the death scene and download images into photographic database.*

*Denotes essential functions of the job.

Job Duty Name Communication and Documentation Functions

Description of Job Duty

• Reduce findings and observations into an investigative summary to communicate pertinent information to other investigators and pathologist managing the case.*
• Communicate and work in tandem with associated investigative agencies.*
• Navigate computer systems to document case information, obtain medical records, and other related reports.*
• Compile appropriate collected information into a finalized investigative report.*
• Provide testimony regarding observations, findings, and actions.*

*Denotes essential functions of the job.

Job Duty Name Forensic and Lab Functions

Description of Job Duty

• Accession and release of bodies at the morgue.*
• Secure and document valuables of deceased as needed to be released.*
• Collect, document, and secure evidence to be released.*
• Perform radiographic imaging when requested.*
• Assist with identifying decedents and notifying appropriate next-of-kin.*
• Release evidence, valuables, and property to outside agencies.*

*Denotes essential functions of the job.

Job Duty Name Other Functions

Description of Job Duty

• Provides quality customer service by assisting next of kin, agency staff, community agencies, medical providers, governmental agencies, and law enforcement in resolving inquiries, complaints, or problems.*
• Presents self in a professional, ethical, and culturally sensitive manner to co-workers, staff, other agency personnel, partners, and the public.*
• Adheres to all policies and procedures (e.g., division, agency, county, federal, and state).*
• Attends meetings, conferences, workshops, seminars, and training to remain current and knowledgeable on agency, policies, regulations, and procedures.*
• Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance.*
• Demonstrate logical reasoning and problem solving.*
• Consistently show initiative, exercise good judgement, and attention to detail.*
• Ability to multi-task while adhering to established policies and procedures.

*Denotes essential functions of the job.