Deputy Coroner

The Deputy Coroner/Medicolegal Death Investigator conducts thorough and legally compliant investigations of deaths occurring within Clallam County under the jurisdiction of the Coroner. Working under general supervision with considerable independence, this position responds to death scenes, determines jurisdiction, examines and identifies decedents, gathers evidence and information, and assists in determining the cause and manner of death. Responsibilities include coordinating with law enforcement and other agencies, preserving evidence and chain of custody, collecting toxicology and other samples, transporting human remains, securing personal property, and notifying next of kin with professionalism and compassion.

The position prepares comprehensive investigative reports; obtains and reviews medical, demographic, and other records; interviews family members, witnesses, and professionals; coordinates release of decedents and property; and may provide testimony in court. The position also maintains investigative equipment, vehicles, supplies, morgue and office areas, and completes related administrative and records functions. Work requires sound judgment, logical reasoning, discretion, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive and potentially complex situations while providing respectful service to bereaved families and the public. Work schedules may include days, nights, weekends, and other hours as assigned.

• Receives death notifications and determines coroner’s jurisdiction.
• Responds to the scene of death days, nights and on weekends.  
• Conducts initial cause of death investigation to include examining  and photographing the body to determine and verify identification, physical description(s), injuries, conditions, and placement.
• Collects and removes human bodies/remains weighing an average of 175 lbs., in various stages of mutilation and decomposition.
• Draws and prepares toxicological samples for processing by rapid test and/or laboratory.
• Takes possession of decedent’s personal property, medications and evidence for evidentiary or safekeeping purposes at the coroner’s office, ensuring proper chain of custody is documented, and arranges release to legal next of kin or appropriate government agency.
• Interviews family, friends, witnesses, professionals, and other contacts associated with the deceased. Obtains statements, documents, and related factual evidence.
• Researches and locates next of kin.
• Locates and obtains decedent’s medical records.
• Notifies next-of-kin.
• Works with medical providers including physicians, forensic anthropologists, forensic odontologists and forensic pathologists.
• Writes timely, complete, accurate and comprehensive death investigation reports, describing the scene and circumstances of the death to assist in the determination of cause and manner of death.
• Coordinates body transport, forensic examinations, autopsies, and release of deceased to funeral home.
• Attends and assists as needed with autopsies.
• Works respectfully and compassionately with bereaved families to explain the administrative death process.
• Provides courteous, high-quality service to members of the public and co-workers.
• Analyzes information gathered through investigation and prepares investigative reports for the completion of the death certificate.
• Uploads information into MDI Log or other applicable database(s).
• Testifies in court regarding cause, manner, and mechanism of death and related issues.
• Maintains disinfection and cleanliness of the coroner’s office and equipment.  
• Maintains supplies, tools, and equipment.
• Performs general clerical functions including filing, logs, and records maintenance.
• Attends trainings and incorporates information learned into policies and procedures.

• A two-year degree in biology, physiology, forensic studies, anatomy, medical or criminal justice disciplines from a college or university accredited by the U.S. Department of Education; or  
• Two-years’ experience in forensic disciplines and/or death investigation (e.g., assisting in autopsies, pathology lab work, scene investigation); or
• Any combination of education and experience that provides the skills necessary to successfully perform the duties of this position.

Salary : $32 - $39