Forensic Investigator

OFFERS ARE TYPICALLY MADE AT THE MINIMUM OF THE RANGE.

Position Overview: The Forensic Investigator plays a key role in assisting medical examiners in death investigations within District 19. The position involves conducting detailed investigations to develop accurate, organized, and concise accounts of the facts surrounding deaths in the jurisdiction. The Forensic Investigator will ensure the thorough documentation and preservation of evidence, assist in autopsies if necessary, and work closely with law enforcement, legal, medical, and funeral professionals. Key Responsibilities:
Investigation & Scene Management:

• Respond to death scenes and evaluate circumstances surrounding the death.
• Exercise scene safety and ensure appropriate handling of evidence.
• Introduce and identify self and role at the scene, participate in scene briefings, walk-throughs, and debriefings.
• Document position of the body, trauma, and scene conditions.
• Photograph the scene and body to support the investigation.
• Collect and preserve evidence at the scene.
• Interview witnesses and gather relevant information about the deceased's history (medical, mental health, social).

Documentation & Reporting:

• Record and document all relevant details, including the episode, history, and findings, in detailed reports.
• Ensure proper chain of custody and release jurisdiction of the body in accordance with legal standards.
• Prepare and document photographs and written reports for use by medical examiners, law enforcement, and the courts.
• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive information.

Assistance with Medical Examinations:

• Assist medical examiners in autopsies and post-mortem examinations using proper techniques and universal precautions when needed.
• Draw toxicological specimens at the scene as directed by the Medical Examiner.
• Perform external examinations at the scene under the guidance of the Medical Examiner.
• Ensure accurate and timely assistance with death investigations as required.

Legal & Professional Collaboration:

• Represent the Office of the Medical Examiner in conducting on-site investigations.
• Provide expert testimony in legal settings as necessary.
• Exercise judgment in accepting or declining jurisdiction based on Florida Statute 406.11.

COMPETENCIES: The following competencies are key to success in this role, enabling effective contribution, collaboration, and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

• Scene Evaluation & Safety: Ability to assess and manage a death scene, ensuring safety for all involved, and understanding the unique risks associated with each scene.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in documenting body position, trauma, and scene conditions, ensuring that nothing is overlooked during initial assessment.
• Evidence Handling & Preservation: Expertise in proper handling, collection, and preservation of evidence to maintain its integrity and ensure it is admissible in court.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally and 25 pounds frequently. Regular standing and walking, with tasks that may include climbing, bending, and squatting. Involves moderate physical effort, including operating equipment or performing manual tasks. The ability to perform work in varying environments, which may require some outdoor activities.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND WORK HAZARDS: On occasion, work may be conducted in extreme conditions such as heat, rain, etc.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT & PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE): Employees are required to adhere to all safety protocols and utilize appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) provided to ensure a safe working environment. 

• Employees must wear designated PPE, which may include safety goggles, gloves, hard hats, hearing protection, and respiratory masks, depending on the tasks performed.
• Work may be conducted in extreme conditions, including heat and rain, depending on the nature of the scene.
• Must be comfortable with exposure to bloodborne pathogens and biological hazards.
• Active immunizations as required for potential exposure risks.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: 
This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position.  While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES: 
County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator.  During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens. 
ADA STATEMENT:
A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
EEO STATEMENT:
St. Lucie County BOCC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.Qualifications: Candidates should possess a solid foundational background that demonstrates their ability to engage with the responsibilities of the role effectively.

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, forensic science, nursing, or a related field; or equivalent law enforcement experience.
• Familiarity with death investigation procedures, including Florida Statutes, Chapter 406 (Medical Examiner Law), and investigative techniques.
• Basic understanding of anatomy, physiology, and disease processes.
• Effective verbal, written, and narrative reporting skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work well under stressful conditions and handle sensitive situations with care and professionalism.
• Ability to collaborate with various professional groups (law enforcement, medical, legal, etc.).
• Capacity to assist with autopsies and death investigations accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly.
• Valid Florida driver’s license with a good driving record.
• Be available on-call and conduct scene investigations as needed during regular business hours, as well as overnight, weekends, and holidays.
• Operate company vehicle daily and travel as required for scene investigations.
• Bi-lingual skills in Spanish, French, and Creole, preferred.

Pay Grade 0
 
Driving Position – Operating County vehicles and/or equipment is a primary function of this position.
 
PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: This position requires a physical, drug testing, driver's license verification and level 1 background screening.

Salary : $24