MEDICOLEGAL DEATH INVESTIGATOR (ON-CALL)

Under the direction of the Polk County Medical Examiner, performs work of considerable difficulty in conducting the investigation of deaths which affect the public interest as identified in Iowa Code, Chapter 331.802.  

1. Conducts a preliminary investigation of the cause and manner of death in all cases where the person's death affects the public interest, as identified in Chapter 331.802, subsection 3 of the Iowa Code;  follows established protocol in each investigation; carefully surveys the death scene to gather information and evaluate the circumstances of the death; interviews family members, witnesses, medical and emergency personnel, and others to document the deceased's medical history; takes photographs of the death scene; analyzes all available information and arrives at appropriate conclusions.
2. Prepares detailed reports of each case for review by the Medical Examiner; ensures that all appropriate documentation is complete, accurate, available in a timely fashion, conveyed in an objective and scientific manner, and is supported by appropriate evidence. 
3. Works closely with other agencies and medical personnel when conducting investigations.
4. Interacts with family members, friends, and associates of the deceased to provide information and support. 
5. Provides information regarding investigations to outside agencies as appropriate.
6. Participates in conferences with the Medical Examiner and/or staff to review cases and policies and procedures, and consider new or revised investigative methodology.
7. Attends professional training and conferences, as directed by the Medical Examiner.
8. Performs related duties as required.

• Advanced knowledge of medical protocol, medical terminology and causes of death.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of forensic death investigation.
• Knowledge of investigative techniques to determine the cause of death.
• Knowledge of procedures for collection and admission of legal evidence.
• Knowledge of the Polk County Medical Examiner protocols and procedures. 
• Ability to communicate tactfully and effectively with law enforcement, medical personnel, and family members of the deceased under highly stressful conditions.
• Ability to multi-tasks and prioritize with minimal direction. 
• Ability to interview witnesses and family members.
• Ability to keep accurate records and prepare detailed reports.
• Ability to push, pull, roll, and move objects or bodies weighing up to 100 pounds and assist in moving heavier objects or bodies.
• Ability to squat, bend, and twist from the waist.
• Ability to load and unload bodies from the Medical Examiner’s vehicle.
• Ability to travel throughout Polk County and remain in the County while on duty.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including exposure to rain, snow, cold, heat.
• Ability to walk on uneven surfaces.
• Must be able to tolerate and work in hazardous environments, handle sights, sounds, and odors in a sometimes stressful environment.

• Graduation from a four-year college or university with major coursework in nursing, medicine, other health related field or criminal justice, and
• Two years’ experience as a licensed or certified nurse, medical care provider or medicolegal death investigator, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position. 
• A criminal background check is required.
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• Candidate must be willing to accommodate a work scheduled for 24-hour-per-day on-call coverage for the office and respond to calls in a timely manner; must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays. 
• A valid State of Iowa driver’s license is required. 

Salary : $34