Job Description

Duties and Requirements Click to read more

Duties

• Prepares decedents for post-mortem examinations by removing specified decedent or specimen from crypt storage area and placing it on the autopsy table, verifying decedent's identity from a toe and ankle tag, setting up the necessary equipment instruments and solutions in order to ensure compliance with Federal and State laws, County ordinances, safety guidelines, and departmental policies.
• Assists the pathologist in performing autopsies by opening the cranium, thoracic and abdominal cavities using tools; excising and dissecting organs and specimens using instruments; obtaining blood samples and other body fluids for toxicological examinations; recording weights of organs and body fluids; preparing specimens for cultures; filing pathologic specimens; suturing and cleaning bodies; and returning decedents to crypt storage area under close supervision.
• Assists in performing minor laboratory work by preparing specimens for examination and assuming responsibilities for the proper storage of specimens.
• Assists the pathologist in identifying, gathering, and properly storing physical evidence by maintaining a proper chain of custody to ensure the integrity of the collected evidence in compliance with the Federal and State rules regarding evidence collection, safety guidelines, and departmental policies and procedures.
• Cleans and maintains the autopsy room, equipment, and tools by sterilizing instruments, removing soiled linens, stocking clean linens and other necessary supplies to ensure proper and safe functioning of the autopsy room and equipment.
• Takes custody of the decedent's personal effects (e.g., money and valuables) by creating a written inventory of decedent's collected property in the presence of a witness, storing them at the Department or securing them at the death scene in order to safeguard or properly transfer the possession of said property to the decedent's next of kin.
• Interacts with a variety of individuals to collaborate with other Coroner staff and law enforcement agencies and provide general information to families and members of the public in order to represent the Department in a professional, sensitive, and empathetic manner and facilitate communication and cooperation between the Department and interested parties.
• Prepares a variety of written documents by compiling and organizing the necessary information and composing the text in a logical manner using appropriate computer software programs in order to facilitate accurate and effective communication, reporting, and record keeping within the Department.
• Complies with all applicable health and safety standards by following the applicable guidelines and reporting defects or problems so they can be appropriately addressed or repaired in order to maintain a clean, safe, and professional work environment.
• Provides testimony in judicial proceedings by conveying procedural and/or technical information related to procurement of evidence and/or property during the autopsy with professionalism and clarity in order to accurately represent the findings determined by the Department, as needed.

Requirements

• One year of experience handling, transporting, and preparing deceased persons for post-mortem examinations and subsequent release at the level of Forensic Attendant.

• An Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree, or higher, in Mortuary Science.

• A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.

• This class involves frequent heavy lifting over 25 pounds, often combined with bending, twisting, or working on irregular surfaces; and occasionally requires extraordinary physical activity.

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