Deputy Medical Examiner Part-Time On-Call

The Deputy Medical Examiner conducts and reports on the medical investigation of all known or suspected violent, accidental, unusual, or medically unattended deaths. The Deputy Medical Examiner performs duties as outlined in Wisconsin State Statutes 979, 30.67 (6), 48.981(2), 59.34 and the Wisconsin Administrative Code as may be amended or required by law.

Must be available 24 hours per day when on-call, unless a qualified replacement is available. 

Fieldwork wages are based on actual hours worked. The current pay schedule is:

• Weekend On-Call pay $25
• Death Investigations $125
• Jurisdiction Report $125
• Permission to Cremate $50
• Body Removal $75
• Transport to Autopsy $150

This posting will remain open until adequate applicants are received. 

• Responds to death calls and documents the death scene. Examines deceased and the circumstances of death. 
• Conducts thorough and independent death scene investigations. Takes photographs, collects toxicology samples, and other forensic evidence from the body as needed. Collects and preserves physical evidence in accordance with the chain of custody procedures. 
• Performs physical examinations and tests incidental to any manner of a criminal nature when request by the Courts or District Attorney. 
• Assists with removals and transports body from scene to appropriate facility as necessary.
• Arranges for performance of pathological or mediological examinations or other tests, including autopsies, as individual situations warrant, and may accompany body to and observe autopsies. 
• Assists in identification of the decedent. Notifies next of kin personally or in conjunction with law enforcement or judicial agencies. 
• Prepares and provides cremation authorizations, permission to embalm, disinterment permits and death certificates as required. Prepares and submits reports, documentation and correspondence. 
• Provide court testimony as needed. 
• Maintains complete files on all case reports to the Medical Examiner’s Office. 
• Maintain current knowledge of appropriate methods and procedures related to the duties of the Deputy Medical Examiner. 
• Performs other duties as required. 

*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• A valid driver’s license and proof of insurance is requited. 
• An Associate’s Degree in nursing, medical technology, chemistry, biology, medicine, pre-med, paramedic, EMT, forensic science, criminal justice or closely related field is preferred.
• Two years medical investigative experience, or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge skills and abilities.
• One year supervisory experience preferred. 
• Must be available 24/7 when on-call, unless a qualified replacement is available. 

Required Competencies:

• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of statutes governing the Deputy Medical Examiner position and ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including HIPAA policies and procedures. 
• Forensic and Medical Expertise: Applies principles, practices, and procedures of pathological medicine to accurately assess causes of death and conduct thorough death investigations. 
•  Investigative and Analytical Skills: Utilizes advanced death scene investigative methods and techniques to assess circumstances, gather relevant evidence, analyze data, and draw logical conclusions. 
• Report Writing and Documentation: Prepares accurate, detailed reports and maintains records in compliance with applicable regulations and professional standards. 
•  Professionalism and Ethical Conduct: Maintains confidentiality, exercises discretion, and handles sensitive interpersonal situations with professionalism, tact, and empathy. 
• Interpersonal and Collaborative Skills: Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with County staff, the general public, and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. 
• Communication Skills: Communicates clearly, concisely, and effectively in both written and oral forms to convey investigative findings and collaborate with key stakeholders.

Working conditions:
Significant interaction with funeral directors, area hospital, nursing homes, law enforcement, pathologists, families of deceased and the general public. Ability to work under unsafe and uncomfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors such as temperatures and noise extremes, traffic hazards, toxic agents/chemicals or disease can cause discomfort and risk of injury. 

Physical requirements:
Ability to perform non-sedentary and sedentary work. Non-sedentary work includes walking variable distances on variable surfaces and climbing stairs; standing and sitting variable times; twisting and squatting; carry up to 50 pounds and on occasion safely lift 50-100 pounds. Must be available for after-hours and weekend work. Must have visual and auditory acuity to accurately and safely perform job functions. Must maintain a valid driver's license.
 
Testing Requirements: 
Testing may be administered to assess skills and abilities necessary to perform the essential duties of this position. Structured interview, references and/or background investigation.

Douglas County is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.