The Allen County
DEPUTY CORONER/INVESTIGATOR
Department: Coroner FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Classification/Level: Professional, PG-6 Date Last Reviewed: 07/2023
Under the direction of the Chief Investigator, the Deputy Coroner/Investigator is responsible for investigating and determining the cause and manner of death in cases of sudden, suspicious, or unexplained deaths. They conduct thorough death investigations, examine crime scenes, assist with autopsies, collect evidence, interview witnesses, prepare detailed reports, and testify in legal proceedings. They collaborate with various professionals and provide support to bereaved families while adhering to all legal requirements and maintaining up-to-date knowledge in their field. This position is Covered as defined by the Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Employee Handbook.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
:
Conducts thorough investigations of deaths within the county's jurisdiction, including homicides, suicides, accidents, and natural deaths where circumstances may be unclear or questionable. Responds to death scenes and examines the area for potential evidence, collects and preserves relevant physical evidence, and documents the scene with photographs and detailed reports. Coordinates and assists with autopsies conducted by forensic pathologists or medical examiners. This may involve attending the autopsy, documenting findings, and collecting additional evidence or samples for analysis. Safely handles and collects various forms of evidence, such as body fluids, tissues, clothing, weapons, or other objects that may provide insight into the cause and manner of death. Interview witnesses, family members, medical personnel, and other individuals relevant to the case to gather information and establish the sequence of events leading to the death. Maintains accurate and detailed records of the investigation, including all activities, observations, interviews, and findings. Prepares comprehensive reports summarizing the investigation's results and conclusions. Testifies as a witness in court or legal proceedings, presenting the findings of the investigation and providing expert testimony when necessary. Collaborates with law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and other professionals to ensure a thorough and multidisciplinary approach to death investigations. Communicates with the public, bereaved families, and representatives from other agencies in a compassionate and professional manner, providing information and support during difficult times. Stays updated with the latest advancements in forensic science, death investigation techniques, and related legal requirements through training and continuing education. Adheres to all laws, regulations, and policies governing death investigations and evidence handling. Researches medications, diseases and medical history of deceased. Completes cases within established guidelines and protocols. Responsible for maintaining and collecting records and maintaining office case files and database. Completes the state issued Death Certificates. Answers the phone involving dealing with other agencies, staff and families of the deceased. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Continued):
Assists with special projects including, but not limited to, ESF-8 and portable morgue. Orders supplies and maintains inventory of office equipment. Performs all other duties as assigned, including overtime as required. REQUIREMENTS:
Associate's degree in a relevant field (e.g., forensic science, criminal justice, biology, chemistry) or equivalent experience; Bachelor's Degree preferred Previous experience in death investigations, law enforcement, or a related field is a plus. State of Indiana Medical Legal Death Investigation Certificate required Strong knowledge of forensic techniques, evidence collection, and preservation protocols Ability to conduct thorough and objective investigations with attention to detail Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to determine the cause and manner of death Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with witnesses, families, and other professionals compassionately and professionally Ability to handle sensitive and emotional situations with empathy and composure Knowledge of legal procedures and the ability to present expert testimony in court Physical fitness and the ability to work in various environments, including crime scenes and autopsy rooms Proficiency in documenting investigations and preparing detailed reports Familiarity with medical terminology, anatomy, and common diseases is beneficial Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and protocols related to death investigations and evidence handling Willingness to participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay updated with advancements in forensic science and investigation techniques Proficiency in proper blood, vitreous, and urine collection procedures. Familiarity with personal protective equipment and adherence to safety rules and regulations Strong written and verbal communication skills Strong administrative assistant skills, encompassing billing, information collection, and customer service Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all departmental records Proficient in using Microsoft Office and other job-related software
EXPECTATION OF WORK:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator's responsibilities include handling a wide range of tasks with significant variables, such as collecting medical records, police reports, and EMS reports, while maintaining case files. Confidentiality is vital in this role. The job requires extensive expertise in death investigations, attending and documenting cases. Proficiency in proper blood, vitreous, and urine collection procedures, as well as adherence to safety regulations, is crucial.
RESPONSIBILITY:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator plays a crucial role in attending autopsies and conducting research on the deceased's medical history. Their work is thoroughly reviewed for sound judgment. Responsibilities include collecting and safeguarding medical and police records while maintaining confidentiality. They are experts in death investigations, proficient in bodily fluid collection, and adhere to safety regulations.
PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator frequently interacts with various individuals, including County employees, law enforcement, attorneys, medical personnel, pathologists, deceased families, and the general public. This communication involves discussing death investigations and addressing questions and issues related to the coroner's office.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator works in various environments, including offices, autopsy facilities, and field locations. Physical activities such as standing, walking, sitting, and lifting objects over sixty pounds are part of the role. Frequent bending, pushing, pulling, kneeling, reaching overhead, and crawling may also be required. The job involves physical tasks like lifting heavy objects and performing various movements. Frequent typing, transcription, and attention to detail are essential. The role exposes them to bodily fluids, potential injuries at scenes, extreme temperatures, and hazardous substances. The Deputy Coroner/Investigatgor attends death scenes, comes into contact with the deceased, and participates in autopsies while collecting body fluids for toxicology testing.
SUPERVISION:
None
LICENSING:
State of Indiana Medical Legal Death Investigation certification
Valid Driver's License to operate a County owned vehicle
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:
Chief Investigator
HOURS:
8:00 am - 4:30 pm with the ability to be on-call; 37.5 hours per week with overtime as required
Please complete the application accurately and thoroughly. A resume is optional. Remember to save and submit your application. If applying for multiple positions, submit a separate application for each one. You'll receive an email confirmation once your application is received. Due to the high volume of applications, further communication will only occur if you're selected for an interview.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). Accordingly, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, age, disability or medical condition, national origin, and veteran status, and all other categories protected by federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. Reasonable accommodations for persons with a known disabling condition will be considered in accordance with State and Federal Law.
Department: Coroner FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Classification/Level: Professional, PG-6 Date Last Reviewed: 07/2023
Under the direction of the Chief Investigator, the Deputy Coroner/Investigator is responsible for investigating and determining the cause and manner of death in cases of sudden, suspicious, or unexplained deaths. They conduct thorough death investigations, examine crime scenes, assist with autopsies, collect evidence, interview witnesses, prepare detailed reports, and testify in legal proceedings. They collaborate with various professionals and provide support to bereaved families while adhering to all legal requirements and maintaining up-to-date knowledge in their field. This position is Covered as defined by the Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Employee Handbook.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
:
Conducts thorough investigations of deaths within the county's jurisdiction, including homicides, suicides, accidents, and natural deaths where circumstances may be unclear or questionable. Responds to death scenes and examines the area for potential evidence, collects and preserves relevant physical evidence, and documents the scene with photographs and detailed reports. Coordinates and assists with autopsies conducted by forensic pathologists or medical examiners. This may involve attending the autopsy, documenting findings, and collecting additional evidence or samples for analysis. Safely handles and collects various forms of evidence, such as body fluids, tissues, clothing, weapons, or other objects that may provide insight into the cause and manner of death. Interview witnesses, family members, medical personnel, and other individuals relevant to the case to gather information and establish the sequence of events leading to the death. Maintains accurate and detailed records of the investigation, including all activities, observations, interviews, and findings. Prepares comprehensive reports summarizing the investigation's results and conclusions. Testifies as a witness in court or legal proceedings, presenting the findings of the investigation and providing expert testimony when necessary. Collaborates with law enforcement agencies, forensic experts, and other professionals to ensure a thorough and multidisciplinary approach to death investigations. Communicates with the public, bereaved families, and representatives from other agencies in a compassionate and professional manner, providing information and support during difficult times. Stays updated with the latest advancements in forensic science, death investigation techniques, and related legal requirements through training and continuing education. Adheres to all laws, regulations, and policies governing death investigations and evidence handling. Researches medications, diseases and medical history of deceased. Completes cases within established guidelines and protocols. Responsible for maintaining and collecting records and maintaining office case files and database. Completes the state issued Death Certificates. Answers the phone involving dealing with other agencies, staff and families of the deceased. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Continued):
Assists with special projects including, but not limited to, ESF-8 and portable morgue. Orders supplies and maintains inventory of office equipment. Performs all other duties as assigned, including overtime as required. REQUIREMENTS:
Associate's degree in a relevant field (e.g., forensic science, criminal justice, biology, chemistry) or equivalent experience; Bachelor's Degree preferred Previous experience in death investigations, law enforcement, or a related field is a plus. State of Indiana Medical Legal Death Investigation Certificate required Strong knowledge of forensic techniques, evidence collection, and preservation protocols Ability to conduct thorough and objective investigations with attention to detail Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to determine the cause and manner of death Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with witnesses, families, and other professionals compassionately and professionally Ability to handle sensitive and emotional situations with empathy and composure Knowledge of legal procedures and the ability to present expert testimony in court Physical fitness and the ability to work in various environments, including crime scenes and autopsy rooms Proficiency in documenting investigations and preparing detailed reports Familiarity with medical terminology, anatomy, and common diseases is beneficial Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and protocols related to death investigations and evidence handling Willingness to participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay updated with advancements in forensic science and investigation techniques Proficiency in proper blood, vitreous, and urine collection procedures. Familiarity with personal protective equipment and adherence to safety rules and regulations Strong written and verbal communication skills Strong administrative assistant skills, encompassing billing, information collection, and customer service Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all departmental records Proficient in using Microsoft Office and other job-related software
EXPECTATION OF WORK:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator's responsibilities include handling a wide range of tasks with significant variables, such as collecting medical records, police reports, and EMS reports, while maintaining case files. Confidentiality is vital in this role. The job requires extensive expertise in death investigations, attending and documenting cases. Proficiency in proper blood, vitreous, and urine collection procedures, as well as adherence to safety regulations, is crucial.
RESPONSIBILITY:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator plays a crucial role in attending autopsies and conducting research on the deceased's medical history. Their work is thoroughly reviewed for sound judgment. Responsibilities include collecting and safeguarding medical and police records while maintaining confidentiality. They are experts in death investigations, proficient in bodily fluid collection, and adhere to safety regulations.
PERSONAL WORK RELATIONSHIPS:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator frequently interacts with various individuals, including County employees, law enforcement, attorneys, medical personnel, pathologists, deceased families, and the general public. This communication involves discussing death investigations and addressing questions and issues related to the coroner's office.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The Deputy Coroner/Investigator works in various environments, including offices, autopsy facilities, and field locations. Physical activities such as standing, walking, sitting, and lifting objects over sixty pounds are part of the role. Frequent bending, pushing, pulling, kneeling, reaching overhead, and crawling may also be required. The job involves physical tasks like lifting heavy objects and performing various movements. Frequent typing, transcription, and attention to detail are essential. The role exposes them to bodily fluids, potential injuries at scenes, extreme temperatures, and hazardous substances. The Deputy Coroner/Investigatgor attends death scenes, comes into contact with the deceased, and participates in autopsies while collecting body fluids for toxicology testing.
SUPERVISION:
None
LICENSING:
State of Indiana Medical Legal Death Investigation certification
Valid Driver's License to operate a County owned vehicle
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:
Chief Investigator
HOURS:
8:00 am - 4:30 pm with the ability to be on-call; 37.5 hours per week with overtime as required
Please complete the application accurately and thoroughly. A resume is optional. Remember to save and submit your application. If applying for multiple positions, submit a separate application for each one. You'll receive an email confirmation once your application is received. Due to the high volume of applications, further communication will only occur if you're selected for an interview.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). Accordingly, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, age, disability or medical condition, national origin, and veteran status, and all other categories protected by federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. Reasonable accommodations for persons with a known disabling condition will be considered in accordance with State and Federal Law.