Death Investigator; PT

Purpose of Position

This position involves being on call for field investigations on nights and weekends with the opportunity to cover weekday shifts as needed. Acts as a liaison between the Greene County Medical Examiner's Office and outside agencies, families, and the public.

The responsibilities of this position include investigation of sudden, violent, unexpected, and suspicious deaths that come under the jurisdiction of the Greene County Medical Examiner's Office. Other duties include specialized duties such as assisting with autopsies, data entry, statistical reporting, and public education.

     Minimum Requirements

• Certification/Licensure at Emergency Medical Technician, Licensed Practical Nurse Level, or equivalent.
• Ability to read and understand written documents and write grammatically correct reports.
• Have and maintain a valid State of Missouri Driver's License.
• High School Diploma

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Answer telephone to gather information and make determination to assume or decline jurisdiction of death. Respond via telephone or scene response to deaths when required. Respond to inquiries from investigative agencies, hospitals, families, and public.

Investigate death scene and determine if scene is safe and secured. Make preliminary examination of dead body, including: photo documentation, recording observations of the scene, collecting witness information, and making determination of extent of investigation necessary. If autopsy is not indicated, perform external examination of body and document findings on investigative report form. Collect samples for toxicology testing and package samples for delivery to lab.

Follow up with determination of identification, next of kin, and any other information, which may be helpful in determination of cause and manner of death.

Arrange for transportation of the body and any associated evidence and belongings to the appropriate facility. Maintain chain of custody of evidence and personal belongings.

Coordinate with pathologist for scheduling of autopsy. Arrange for x-rays if needed.

Locate lab samples and records, including law enforcement reports, medical records, and any other pertinent information.

Write comprehensive investigative report of the circumstances of death.

Additional Tasks and Responsibilities

While the following tasks are necessary for the work of the unit, they are not an essential part of the purpose of this position and may also be performed by other unit members.

Complete DSS child death forms. Collect and distribute data regarding child deaths.

 Coordinate with organ and tissue donation agencies to allow donation if possible

Minimum Training and Experience Required to Perform Essential Job Functions           

High School diploma or equivalent. Successful completion of a basic medicolegal death investigation training course. Candidate must have a valid Drivers’ License. Hazardous Materials Awareness Certification required. Must obtain a certification by ABMDI within 24 months of employment. Continuing education as prescribed by Chief Forensic Investigator.