Forensic Autopsy Technician

About the role

This position is responsible for preparing the room, paperwork, and body to assist the pathologist to find the cause and manner of death of the deceased. This may include performing tests and examinations. Position will also assist with finding abnormalities in the chest cavity not known in the medical records. Incumbent in this position may work independently and use discretion within a set of duties and standard operations procedures. Incumbent in this position may be required to work evenings and weekends. Position reports to the Autopsy Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Prepares autopsy room and cleans room after autopsy is completed
• Lifts and moves bodies
• Checks toe tags and field deputy report
• Prepares folder and copies of field deputy report for pathologist and other attendees of autopsy
• Covers containers for specimen collection and makes labels to include histology specimens
• Collaborates with organ and tissue donation organizations
• Collects toxicology samples and conducts cooler count
• Absorbs specimens for DNADocument notes on decedent’s history
• Transcribes for pathologist during examinations
• Weighs and eviscerates organs
• Applies sutures to the body
• Opens and closes the body
• Positions and photographs the body
• Prepares body bags
• Releases decedent to appropriate organizations
• Conducts proper disposal of tissue and biohazard materials
• Preserved and prepared evidence for crime lab
• Aids pathologist with the complexities through various exams
• Aids in removal of bullets and determine trajectory
• Trains new hire and interns utilizing the forensic autopsy technician training checklist
• Maintains confidentiality at all times

Qualifications

• Minimum Job Requirements and Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Forensic Science, Mortuary Science, or a related field with two (2) or more years of relevant work experience in autopsies and investigations of death. In lieu of degree must have at least six (6) years of related work experience. Must be knowledgeable in department procedures and policies including quality improvement, infection control standards, environmental standards, and safety issues. Must have experience in x-rays and photographs. Must know laboratory procedures as it pertains to DNA and specialized extractions. Must understand, know, and follow anatomy and technical instructions and materials. Use and knowledge of autopsy tools. Know and follow the protocols for organ and tissue donations for the suitable. Good judgment and the ability to evaluate and assess alternative methods. Must have a valid driver’s license. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and written. Excellent reasoning and analytical skills and detail oriented. Knowledge and use of Microsoft Office.
• Preferred Job Requirements And Qualifications: Master’s Degree in Biology, Forensic Science, Mortuary Science, or a related field with one (1) or more years of relevant work experience in autopsies and investigations of death. Must be knowledgeable in department procedures and policies including quality improvement, infection control standards, environmental standards, and safety issues. Must have experience in x-rays and photographs. Must know laboratory procedures as it pertains to DNA and specialized extractions. Must understand, know, and follow anatomy and technical instructions and materials. Use and knowledge of autopsy tools. Know and follow the protocols for organ and tissue donations for the suitable. Good judgment and the ability to evaluate and assess alternative methods. Must have a valid driver’s license. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and written. Excellent reasoning and analytical skills and detail oriented. Knowledge and use of Microsoft Office. Bilingual preferred.