Class Code: 6241
MEDICAL/LEGAL INVESTIGATOR
NATURE OF WORK
This
is technical, laboratory, and investigative work in the office of the Medical
Examiner. Work involves conducting interviews and research in office and field
settings to determine the cause and manner of death. Responsibilities also
include the use of crime laboratory technology including photography to assist
in collection of evidence at the scene of the death. Exercises
independent judgment in selecting salient information and evidence to collect
for use in determining cause of death.
Supervision
is provided by a technical or administrative superior through work assignment
and review of completed tasks.
ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS
Contacts the police in reportable deaths in
accordance with Medical Examiner’s Office procedures and protocols.
Develops physical description of cadavers by viewing
the body. Researches
missing person reports, comparing physical descriptions to assist in
identifying persons.
May assist with crime laboratory work in the field,
assembling material evidence. Follows internal procedures to ensure proper handling of evidence
including drugs, medicines, poison, x-rays of ballistic location in cadavers,
fingerprints, weapons, etc.
Organizes case records for the deceased for cases to
be processed by the Medical Examiner's Office. Case data includes medical and family history,
reports of circumstances and evidence surrounding the death.
Follows up on cases until a final disposition is
reached.
Prepares death certificates. Prepares releases of the body.
Prepares other divisional forms as required by the situation.
Prepares narrative and technical reports using
computer based applications.
Prepares summary reports or cases using basic
computer-based office and specialized applications. Enters case data into the Medical
Examiner’s data base.
Receives notice of death by telephone, in person, or
from written reports. Conducts
interviews to gather information surrounding the terminal event including
physical descriptions of decedents and their personal habits; determines
appropriate action to be taken.
Researches next-of-kin and identity of bodies. Arranges for family or friends to
identify cadavers.
Using
established criteria determines if cases fall under the jurisdiction of the
Medical Examiner’s Office; initiates action for Medical Examiner's office
cases.
Uses a personal computer.
Performs related work as required.
KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS
Knowledge
of the Florida Statutes which apply to the work of the Medical Examiner's
Office including issuance of certificates and permits.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of
criminology.
Knowledge of the office procedures of the Medical
Examiner's Office.
Knowledge of medical terminology, physiology, anatomy
and crime laboratory techniques including photography.
Some knowledge of the geography of the County.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in
writing.
Ability to demonstrate a mature and respectful
approach to disagreeable phases of the work.
Ability to interview for legal fact finding purposes.
Ability to write reports using basic computer
applications.
Ability to serve the public and fellow employees with
honesty and integrity in full accord with the letter and spirit of
Ability
to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general
public, co-workers, elected and appointed officials and members of diverse
cultural and linguistic backgrounds, regardless of race, color, ethnicity,
religion, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or
political affiliation.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING
Bachelor’s
degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in
medical technology, biology, criminology, law, or other field closely related
to this assignment; two (2) years of experience in criminal investigation
including six (6) months of experience in the use of medical terminology; or
any equivalent combination of relevant training and experience.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Position
involves field work and driving is required. Must possess a valid
GENERAL INFORMATION
Bargaining
Unit: White Collar
FLSA
Status: Non-exempt
Code
of Ethics Certification: No
Work
Locations: Medical Examiner and Trauma Services
Class
Spec. Estab./Revised: E11/80 R3/05