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Charleston County Government

Forensic Pathologist

Charleston County Government, Charleston, South Carolina, United States, 29408

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Overview

JOB PURPOSE: The principal function and responsibility of an employee in this class is to assist the Coroner in carrying out the statutory functions of the Charleston County Coroner’s Office to investigate sudden, unattended, unexpected, or violent deaths within Charleston County. The work requires independent judgment and initiative, and involves establishing effective relationships with law-enforcement, court officials, medical personnel, other County employees, and the public. The duties are performed primarily in the autopsy room with some exposure in the field and possible exposure to health and environmental hazards. Hiring salary:

$275,000 (Estimated Annual Salary).

Application deadline:

OPEN UNTIL FILLED. Location:

Charleston County, South Carolina. Note:

This description reflects the essential functions and qualifications of the role as of the date shown and is not a contract of employment. Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

Examines human bodies to determine the cause and manner of death using various information sources and autopsy findings. Determines the cause of violent, sudden, accidental, traumatic, or unusual deaths; unattended deaths; deaths with suspected criminal acts; and other deaths as provided by South Carolina statutes. Reviews cases and provides input based on medical judgment to determine if an autopsy is required. Observes, records, and preserves objects or personal property related to deaths (e.g., medications, suicide notes, DNA, evidence, fingerprints, trace evidence, fibers). Examines scenes of death/crime at the request of the Coroner. Provides assistance to law enforcement agencies and organ procurement agencies; communicates directly with the investigative team of the Coroner’s Office in cooperation with the Coroner. Provides expert testimony in criminal proceedings related to deaths investigated by the Coroner’s Office. Keeps abreast of current research and developments and assists with policy formulation in the assigned work area. Assists Locum Tenens with investigations, testimony, and case completion if necessary. Performs other duties or assumes other responsibilities as apparent or assigned. Success Factors

Take action to solve problems with sound judgment and a systematic approach to decision making; identify key dimensions, determine potential causes, obtain relevant information, and present effective solutions. Create positive energy to build morale and commitment to goals and objectives. Embrace change and support efforts to improve processes and collaboration with coworkers, departments, officials, and the public. Adapt to a changing work environment and reorganize schedules as needed. Demonstrate time-management skills by delegating, organizing, prioritizing, and completing multiple assignments by deadlines. Safeguard confidential information and disclose it only as authorized or required for job duties. Provide critical staff support to task forces and assist other teams as needed. Use high-level conflict resolution skills with staff, community members, officials, and stakeholders. Represent the Department professionally to the community and Department members. Adhere to County standards for customer service, accuracy, quality, efficiency, and policy compliance. Qualifications

Must be licensed as a physician to practice medicine in the State of South Carolina. Must be a pathologist certified by the American Board of Pathology in anatomic pathology or board eligible in forensic pathology within six months of hire. Forensic pathologists in fellowship training may be considered eligible in lieu of the above. Knowledge of anatomy, pathology, anthropology and related disciplines for identification and investigative purposes. Knowledge of firearms and other instruments of death. Knowledge of rules of evidence and court procedures. Knowledge of vehicular crash analysis. Adhere to NAME autopsy performance standards and requirements. Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws related to the operation of the county coroner’s function. Skilled in performing autopsies, external examinations, and medical records reviews of decedents. Physical Requirements

Clear speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, to communicate effectively with medical and law-enforcement personnel, funeral directors, and the public. Vision and other powers of observation to operate photographic equipment and identify, preserve, and maintain evidence. Manual dexterity to operate computers and other office equipment. Personal mobility and physical reflexes to operate a vehicle, lift heavy objects, and move about without disturbing evidence. Able to stand for extended periods in various conditions. Working Conditions

May be exposed to health and environmental hazards. Flexible work hours including days, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays; may exceed 40 hours per week and be called to report to duty at any time. Work indoors and outdoors; exposure to cold, heat, and weather elements may occur. May be exposed to workplace pressure and irregular hours. Subject to call-out in emergency situations. Referral language or site prompts about interviewing and notifications are informational and should be considered non-essential to the job description.

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