Medical Examiner-Coroner Investigator

Duties

Typical Tasks

• Conducts investigations into the circumstances of death, and works closely with physicians who determine the cause and manner of death;
• Responds to calls from law enforcement agencies, hospitals, or private citizens concerning unattended or traumatic deaths, and authorizes removal of bodies from death scenes;
• Interviews witnesses, physicians, police officers, and family members to obtain facts concerning the deaths;
• Takes or orders photographs to be taken;
• Assists in identifying decedents utilizing a variety of methods, such as: fingerprint collection, DNA collection, visual identification, and other forensic methods and informational resources;
• May personally notify the family of the deceased;
• Discusses findings with law enforcement, laboratories, and others as to the circumstances surrounding death;
• Reports findings to Chief Medical Examiner-Coroner Investigator and/or Chief Medical Examiner-Coroner and Assistant Medical Examiners;
• Discusses findings with other investigative agencies;
• Prepares written case reports;
• Takes charge of personal property and evidence found at death scenes;
• Maintains chain of evidence;
• Appears as a witness in criminal and civil proceedings and before industrial accident boards to testify to facts gathered during investigations;
• Investigates requests for indigent disposition;
• When authorized, may release information to news media on Medical Examiner-Coroner's Office cases;
• May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker, as required;
• Performs other related duties, as required.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Employment Standards

• Sufficient education, training, and experience to demonstrate the possession and direct application of the following knowledge and abilities:
• Training and Experience Note: The required knowledge and abilities are attained through training and experience equivalent to an Associate's Degree, preferably in Biological Science, Criminal Justice, Mortuary Science, or a related field. Relevant analytical, administrative, lead, supervisory, or management experience that includes interpreting rules and regulations, gathering data and formulating recommendations, and report writing can substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
AND
• One (1) year of experience working with deceased persons in a medical, nursing, investigative, and/or Medical Examiner's Office or Coroner's Office.
• Completion of an approved course of instruction in death investigation, such as California POST Coroner's Death Investigation course or equivalent, is preferred, and may substitute for six (6) months of the required experience.
• Strong preference may be given to candidates in possession of a valid diplomate or board certificate through The American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI).

Special Requirements

• Ability to travel to alternate locations in the course of work. If driving, possession of a valid California driver’s license prior to appointment and the ability to qualify for and maintain a County driver authorization.

Knowledge of:

• Investigative techniques and practices;
• Rules of evidence regarding chain of custody and methods to preserve and safeguard evidence;
• Laws, ordinances, and regulations governing the operation of the Medical Examiner-Coroner's Office;
• Common computer systems and applications;
• Basic anatomy and physiology.

Ability to:

• Work closely with physicians when investigating cause, manner, and circumstance of unattended or traumatic death;
• Read and understand medical charts;
• Deal tactfully with persons especially under emergency and emotional situations;
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships;
• Write and type accurate and comprehensive reports on the findings of an investigation;
• Gather and evaluate evidence;
• Testify in court;
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal and communication skills;
• Work alone and independently or as part of an investigative team.

Physical Requirements

• Work under unpleasant conditions, such as with decomposed bodies, bodies with extensive physical injuries, and other similar conditions;
• Work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and odd or irregular hours;
• Be able to manipulate/maneuver up to 100 pounds of body weight.

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