Forensic Medicolegal Death Investigator 1

Duties

Job Duties

• Respond to and investigate death scenes; photograph, collect, and document evidence;
• Lift and transport human remains by yourself, weighing an average of 175 lbs, in various stages of mutilation and decomposition;
• Adhere to county mandated protocols regarding control and documentation of personal property;
• Document chain of evidence, and adhere to KCMEO process and protocols pertaining to collection and security of evidence;
• Effectively interview family members, witnesses, and notify next of kin of a death;
• Effectively gather and interpret medical records;
• Conduct investigations-typically by phone and computer-to locate next of kin and arrange disposition of remains;
• Conduct computer investigations to gain additional pertinent information;
• Complete detailed investigative reports;
• Use KCMEO-specific software;
• Work closely with law enforcement, medical providers, and legal agencies;
• Answer phone calls;
• Release human remains and property to funeral homes;
• Do a variety of additional tasks related to the work of KCMEO.

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

Requirements

Our ideal candidate will demonstrate the following (Minimum):

• A basic knowledge of human anatomy and physiological functions
• Ability to gain legal and medical terminology, and health and safety requirements relating to decomposed bodies during the first months of employment
• Ability to investigate and photograph death scenes, gather evidence; transport human remains, and secure, document, and control personal property and evidence
• Ability to lift, maneuver, and handle human remains averaging 175lbs, in various stages of mutilation and decomposition
• Ability determine a course of action in ambiguous situations
• Ability to interview witnesses and family members, often in the midst of trauma, accurately document chain of evidence, gather information, and maintain detailed and accurate records
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, and work with clients of diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds in a respectful and compassionate manner
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with staff, co-workers, law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys and members of the public of different cultural backgrounds
• Ability to work reliably as a member of a multi-faceted professional team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times
• Washington state driver’s license, or the ability to gain one prior to employment
• Ability and willingness to obtain American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigation diplomat status within 5 years of hire.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in a related field (medical assistant, medic, paramedic, nurse, autopsy tech, etc.)
• Ability to fluently speak one of the languages most commonly spoken by limited English speakers in King County (Spanish, Amharic, Somali, Korean, Chinese, Russian, Ukranian, Arabic, Vietnamese, Tagalog).

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