Medicolegal Death Investigator

Assists the deputy chief with the investigation of sudden and unexpected deaths. Develops and evaluates information obtain from observations, interviews and reviews of various records. Provides written and oral reports regarding investigation findingsEducation, Experience and Training:
Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Health Sciences, Physical Sciences or Behavioral Sciences or related field of study. Two (2) years of work related experience required.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Must possess the knowledge, skills and ability to perform all of the duties of a Medicolegal Death Investigator; ability to work effectively with department and other County staff and members of the community, frequently under stressful and emotion-charged conditions; ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments and the general public. Must pass an extensive background check. Must have a valid Texas Drivers License and good driving record. Will be required to provide a copy of 10-year driving history. Must maintain a good driving record and remain in compliance with Article II, Subdivision II of Chapter 90 of the Dallas County Code.


Physical/Environmental Requirements:
The physical working environment is principally a standard office environment, but the employee also works in areas with exposure to moderate to severe odors. Death scene investigation and other duties routinely involve potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards that require the use of safety precautions including the use of personal protective equipment and proper lifting/moving techniques. Travel to locations within Dallas County in a department vehicle is required. Death scene attendance requires the ability to navigate locations such as secluded wooded areas, river bottoms or industrial sites in all types of weather conditions. Access to the death scene may require non-vehicular travel to reach the scene. Lifting, pulling, carrying and manipulating decedents and/or other heavy, bulky or irregular objects is also required. Other work environment considerations include graphic visual and verbal subject matter and communication with grieving persons. Must possess visual and hearing acuity, physical mobility and manual dexterity sufficient to perform essential job functions. Requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, and the ability to lift files, boxes, and other materials up to 50 lbs., unassisted.1. Attends death scenes and works cooperatively with law enforcement personnel to ensure collection and preservation of evidence related to the death investigation; interviews family of decedent, witnesses, law enforcement personnel, physicians, and other persons to assist with the determination of cause and manner of death; collects, documents, secures, tracks and disposes of decedent’s personal property; photographs death scenes and bodies; assists in establishing identity of decedent and ensures timely notification of next-of-kin; facilitates disposition of body; and prepares and submits detailed, written fact reports to the Medical Examiner.

2. Receives notification of deaths; makes initial determination regarding scope of investigation including jurisdiction, scene attendance and acceptance of body for physical examination.

3. Provides information and assistance to family members of decedents; assists in providing information and training to staff, interns and other interested parties; responds to general inquiries and requests for information within established guidelines.

4. Receives and releases decedent bodies; assists with the disposition of indigent and unclaimed bodies.

5. Provides direction and assistance to staff; responds to non-routine situations that occur outside of normal business hour including summoning assistance and taking other actions to safeguard department personnel and property.

6. Perform other duties as assigned.