Morgue Assistant

About the role

Under close to general supervision, assists with full forensic autopsies. Works alongside Forensic Pathologists and Medicolegal Investigators.

Responsibilities

• Sets up all instruments, supplies, and paperwork for autopsy independently or with the supervisor of a Medical Medicolegal Investigator.
• Assist with autopsy under direct supervisor of coroner or forensics pathology, collection of evidence items, and manipulation of the decedent.
• Logs and removes all clothing, personal effects and evidence for chain of custody.
• Assists with or independently collects and packages biological samples for toxicology, microbiology or other specific testing under the direct supervisor of forensic pathologist.
• X-Ray decedents
• Cleans and sanitizes all instruments and working surfaces.
• Takes inventory and stocks morgue supplies.
• Accepts and releases decedents' personal items and release decedents to funeral homes.
• Maintains identifying tags or bands on the decedent.
• Provides information to law enforcement agencies, relatives and funeral director personnel as appropriate.
• Maintains Medicolegal Death Investigation (MDI) files for location and autopsy status.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED equivalent, AND successful completion of criminal history and background check and drug screen.

Prior autopsy/morgue experience. Associate's degree in criminal justice, mortuary sciences, health services, or related field preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of investigative principles and techniques, techniques of investigative interviewing and use of scientific equipment
• Knowledge of laws and rules of evidence; laws pertaining to death and the ethical treatment of the dead; criminal and civil law
• Knowledge of general anatomy and physiology; general medical terminology
• Knowledge of methods of recognition, collection and preservation of medicolegal and/or criminal evidence
• Knowledge of unclaimed bodies procedures and laws.
• Knowledge of County and Information the Coroner's Office policies and procedures.
• Skill to work safely under potentially hazardous conditions by wearing personal protective equipment
• Skill to work effectively with law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services personnel, medical doctors, attorneys and distraught persons
• Skill to prepare clear, concise reports and correspondence
• Skill to converse with medical personnel on a technical level
• Skill to respond professionally, effectively and efficiently in all duties of the position
• Skill in effectively communicating verbally and in writing.