Under the general supervision of the Medical Examiner Investigator Coordinator, the Medical Examiner Investigator conducts investigations related to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Performs routine death scene investigations, collects evidence, assists the Medical Examiner, and ensures compliance with state and local medicolegal procedures. Duties include field investigations, documentation, communication with law enforcement and families, and participation in autopsy-related tasks.

Performs routine investigations and acts as representative of the Medical Examiner to determine when investigator and/or Medical Examiner presence is required at scenes of death.
Handles bodies appropriately to ensure evidence preservation, personal safety, and respectful treatment of the deceased and their families.
Visits and documents observations at assigned death scenes; prepares cremation certificates.
Receives and responds to telephone inquiries per departmental policy.
Assists Medical Examiner/pathologist with clerical and procedural aspects of autopsies and communicates autopsy findings to law enforcement and appropriate parties.
Provides liaison with Dubuque County Medical Examiner regarding autopsies, investigations, and cremation certificates.
Follows up on all cases based on autopsy findings, investigative information, and laboratory results.
Assists with preservation and collection of identification records, including photographs, dental records, x-rays, hospital records, and other evidence.
Ensures proper handling and transportation of bodies, including custody and transfer.
Assists in investigations outside Dubuque County and acts as liaison with funeral directors, police departments, district attorneys, and other involved parties.
Obtains, reviews, and extracts medical records relevant to investigative cases.
Provides rotational 24-hour coverage for consultation and investigation.
Presents clear and accurate court testimony.
Completes case documentation within the timeframe required by policy.
Attends meetings and professional development opportunities.
Performs duties in accordance with County policies and procedures.

Education and/or Experience Requirements:

High school graduate (or equivalent) and three (3) years of experience in medical technology, emergency medical service, law enforcement, nursing, or prior experience in a medicolegal investigative office.

Licenses, Certifications, and Other Requirements:

Must be authorized to work in the United States. Dubuque County does not sponsor work visas or provide immigration sponsorship.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities QualificationsIn order to perform the functions and responsibilities of the position (listed above) the following knowledge, skills, and abilities are essential.

Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and emergency medical services.
Knowledge of criminal investigative techniques, laws, and regulations.
Ability to be on call 24 hours per day including 1 weekend a month and holidays.
Ability to interpret and apply departmental policies and procedures.
Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to work under stress and maintain confidentiality.
Ability to manage multiple investigations simultaneously.
Sufficient physical and sensory ability to perform job duties effectively.

In evaluating candidates for this position, Dubuque County may consider a combination of education, training, and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of this position.
Physical Requirements

Ability to sit, squat, kneel, crawl, jump, twist, reach, bend, stoop, stand, push, pull, lift, and carry up to 75–100 pounds.
Requires mental and physical stamina to handle medicolegal work.

Work Environment

Work is performed indoors and outdoors, including at death scenes.
Exposure to distressed or grieving individuals.
Exposure to biological hazards and varying environmental conditions.
Occasional travel required.

Dubuque County

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Medical Examiner Investigator