Forensic Autopsy Technician (Extra-Help)

Duties

The information listed below is meant to serve as samples of the job duties and responsibilities for positions in this classification. This list is neither inclusive nor exclusive, but indicative of several types of duties performed. Consequently, this information does not reflect Essential Functions for any given position in this classification.

• Receives, identifies and moves deceased persons from refrigeration storage; and prepares deceased persons for autopsy exam and final disposition including removal from the Coroner facility.
• Assists Pathologist in performing medico-legal autopsies to include the opening and closing of deceased persons, stitching the bodies, and removal and dissection of internal organs.
• Maintains morgue and autopsy room in a clean, sanitary and orderly manner; cleans equipment; and checks for proper ventilation of the morgue and condition of equipment.
• Takes photographs and records external identification characteristics of deceased persons such as height, weight, hair and eye color, and scars.
• Observes and reports conditions found that may be of value in an autopsy investigation.
• Collects and prepares evidence, clothing, and specimens for lab examination; preserves, stores, and discards evidence, clothing, and specimens as directed or according to established procedures.
• Orders and maintains autopsy laboratory and supplies.
• Prepares bodies containing contagious or infectious diseases for transport.
• Inventories and stores personal property of deceased persons.
• Completes daily logs and activity reports.
• May assist the Deputy Coroners as needed.

 Earn a Degree in Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Science, or Computer Forensics

Requirements

Knowledge of:

• Basic anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology;
• Health and safety codes and precautions for handling decedents;
• Sanitation methods and practices for cleaning floors, walls, and fixtures.

Skills/Abilities to:

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships;
• Process and preserve deceased persons for autopsies;
• Maintain facilities and equipment in a sanitary manner;
• Tolerate exposure to decomposed human remains, foul smells, unpleasant sights, and handling of biohazardous materials;
• Prepare clear and concise reports and keep accurate records;
• Maintain facilities and equipment in a sanitary manner;
• Follow written and oral instructions of a technical nature;
• Exercise a high degree of maturity, integrity, and responsibility.

Minimum Qualifications

Forensic Autopsy Technician applicants must qualify under one (1) of the options listed below:

• OPTION 1:
• Experience: Six (6) months of full-time, paid work experience in a medical setting.
• Education: Graduation from high school or successful completion of a General Education Development (GED) test indicating high school graduation equivalency.
• License: Possession of a valid driver's license may be required.
• OPTION 2:
• Education: Completion of fifteen (15) semester units of coursework that is acceptable within the United States' accredited college or university system with at least (1) course in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, forensics, life science, or a closely related field.
• License: Possession of a valid driver's license may be required.

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