Human Resources

Job Location

County of Chelan Coroner 415 Washington St #205 Wenatchee, WA 98801

Description

Salary: PW12 Steps 2-4 $4,804.62 - $5,253.51 Longevity Steps 5-8 $5,494.92- $6,294.03

The position includes a state retirement system, with a deferred comp program available. Health insurance package includes Medical, Dental, and county contributions to a personal health savings account. Includes up to 11 paid holidays and additional floating holidays per collective bargaining agreement. Along with monthly accrued vacation and sick leave. 

SUMMARY

Investigates and determines cause and manner of death according to state statute. Determines positive identity of the deceased, identifies next of kin, and notifies them of the death. Assists families in resolving concerns related to the death. The Deputy Coroner performs work that is varied and complex under the general supervision of the Chief Deputy Coroner.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responds to calls relating to “sudden deaths” which refers to a death in which a physician has not been in attendance of the deceased or a death under questionable circumstances.
• Confers with police, doctors, hospital staff, other first responders, families of the deceased, witnesses, insurance companies, attorneys, and the media.
• Examines the place of death for evidence related to the cause and manner of death and the identity of the deceased.
• Collects, preserves and stores property/evidence while maintaining the integrity of the case through proper collection, handling, security, and chain of custody.
• Attends autopsies and supplies the forensic pathologist with facts related to the case.
• Collects toxicology samples from the deceased, and conducts on-site testing of samples.
• Identifies next of kin and notifies them of the death.
• Aids the family members of the deceased.
• Prepares written reports, completes death certificates, and conducts external examinations.
• Attends depositions, and court hearings providing relevant information and testimony.
• Performs other related functions as required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

The position of Deputy Coroner has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS/Certifications

• Must pass pre-employment background check.
• Must obtain membership with the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners within 12 months from the date from hire.
• Death Investigator certification by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Center must be obtained within 12 months from hire.
• Diplomat status by the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) must be obtained within 24 months from the date of hire.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Minimum: Associate degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Nursing, Biology, or a related field; or 1 year of verifiable work experience in medical, nursing, coroner, medical examiner, emergency medical technician or paramedic, autopsy, or investigative field. Investigative field experience includes researching information, interviewing individuals, and preparing detailed reports for governmental, or other related agencies.

Any equivalent combination of experience and education which meets the minimum requirement will be considered.

• Basic knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology.
• Skill in communicating in a clear and concise way in stressful situations.
• Skill in providing comfort and assistance to people grieving the loss of family or friends.
• Ability to observe death scenes, and take detailed notes.
• Ability to analyze difficult investigatory problems, adopt effective courses of action, and draw appropriate conclusions.
• Ability to perform work successfully in high stress situations.
• Ability to operate passenger cars or trucks safely.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/Work Environment

• Will investigate deaths in locations throughout Chelan County under various weather conditions, and on various terrains.
• Must have sufficient physical ability to handle, load, and transport deceased bodies weighing 200 lbs. or more from various locations to the Chelan County Coroner’s Office, or designated location.
• At times, shall require working outside of normal business hours.

Disclaimer

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential functions satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of individuals in the job. This job description is not an employment agreement and/or an expressed or implied employment contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.