Deputy Coroner-On Call

Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks, which may be found in positions of this class.Please review the full for additional information.Description Under the direction of the Mason County Coroner, The On-Call Deputy Coroner is responsible for the investigation of the circumstances surrounding deaths that come under the jurisdiction of the Coroner’s Office: all homicides, suicides, accidents, traffic fatalities, suspicious, unexpected, unexplained, or medically unattended natural deaths, the deaths of children, as well as the deaths of indigent or unclaimed citizens. Providing of initial emotional and psychological support to individuals and family members at the scene of a death investigation or upon notification of a death. This position operates with a twenty-four-hour/seven-day/week responsibility.Essential Functions Participate in the development and modification of methods, techniques, and procedures for death investigation services, protocols, methods and procedures.Receive notification of deaths and determines whether a death is within the jurisdiction of the Coroner’s Office. Interpret RCWs for the purposes of determining jurisdiction and reviewing information pertinent to a death investigation.Respond to calls relating to violent or sudden deaths. Examine death scenes and confer with appropriate parties to ascertain circumstances, medical history and the cause of death. Photograph death scenes. Make positive identification and take possession of or secure and account for personal effects of deceased.Secure, protect, and retain the chain of evidence at crime scenes; coordinate investigation with law enforcement, prosecutor or other involved agencies.Gather and transport human remains, personal effects, and evidence to our autopsy facility. Secure and store appropriately until release to family, law enforcement, or other designees by next-of-kin. Release remains and personal effects to funeral home of the family’s choice.Coordinate work of forensic specialists as required: crime scene investigator; x-ray technician; pathologist; anthropologist; dentist; entomologist; psychologist; toxicologist; attorneys, prosecutors, etc.Write complete and comprehensive investigative reports, as well as create other documentation to justify the determination of cause and manner of death. Complete and sign death certificates to be filed with the County Vital Statistics Registrar and Washington State Office of Vital Statistics. File Affidavits of Correction as needed to correct or change death certificates when appropriate.Secure and package blood and body fluid samples for toxicological analysis and notify other investigating agencies of results. Advise next-of-kin of toxicology results in regard to cause and manner of death.Organize, track, and document cases until all documentation is received. Disseminate and explain technical information to appropriate agencies and family members as requested. Maintain case tracking system for reference and statistical purposes. Utilize MDI software to prepare reports.Testify in court and/or provide information for deposition in court cases as to investigative findings in the field; evidence gathered and secured; correspondence with other agencies and family members, etc.Preserve confidentiality in all statements and activities with stakeholders.Participate in the development and modification of methods, techniques, and procedures for death investigation services, protocols, methods and procedures.Ensure vehicles are fully supplied, clean (inside & out), and in operational order.Respond to calls within fifteen (15) minutes of getting a notification.Regular, reliable and punctual attendance.Other duties as assigned. Knowledge of:

• State and local laws regarding deaths and human remains
• Methods, techniques, equipment and practices of handling decedents, property and evidence.
• Techniques used in interviewing, photography, investigation and report writing
• Procedures necessary to inspect, prepare, and transport a body for autopsy, preservation and collection of evidence
• Equipment and supplies necessary to maintain the office, morgue facility, coroner vehicles and forensic photography
• Medical terminology, prescription drugs and their application
• Law Enforcement operations & road system in Mason County

Skills in:

• MS Suite
• Office procedures, practices and equipment.
• Communicating with highly emotional circumstances.
• Providing public education and speaking.
• Writing comprehensive reports and business correspondence.

Ability to:

• Establish and maintain cooperative, effective, and productive working relationships using tact, patience and courtesy.
• Effectively plan and organize work and complete tasks within prescribed timeframes.
• Effectively present information and respond to questions from stakeholders.
• Acts as county-wide resource for information regarding death and dying, grief and bereavement, suicide, etc.
• Analyze and evaluate death scene evidence and make a preliminary finding as to the cause and/or manner of death.
• Make independent judgment and initiate appropriate action.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of activities.
• Assist in autopsies as required.

OTHER JOB DUTIES: May be required to obtain additional education as required to conduct business functions.Minimum Qualifications (Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job may be considered.)
Pass a criminal background check through law enforcement agencies
Pass a medical/physical and psychological evaluation
Obtain a current Washington State First Aid/CPR certification within six (6) months of hire.
Complete a WACME approved and/or sponsored medicolegal death investigations school within three (3) years.
Obtain death investigators certification through ABMDI (American Board of Medico-legal Death Investigators) within 3 years.LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Valid Washington State Driver licensePREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Former experience in working in Law Enforcement, Emergency Services, Nursing RN or LPN.
• Completion of courses in biology, physiology, forensic studies, and anatomy or criminal justice from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

This position is required to follow chapter 13 of the . If offered the position you must provide an Abstract Driving Record from theHealth Insurance Enjoy medical, dental, and vision coverage for yourself and eligible dependents as a regular full-time employee. Some part-time employees may also qualify. We offer affordable plans, with premiums partially covered based on the type of coverage you choose.Retirement Plans Secure your future with enrollment in one of Washington State’s Department of Retirement Systems programs: PERS, PSERS, or LEOFF. Both you and the County contribute to your retirement, ensuring long-term financial stability.Paid Leave Take time to recharge! Mason County provides sick leave, holidays, and vacation time based on County policies or union agreements. Plus, your vacation accrual grows the longer you stay with us.Life & AD&D Insurance We’ve got you covered with County-paid basic life and AD&D insurance for added peace of mind.Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Access 24/7 support for yourself, your spouse, domestic partner, and children (up to age 26). Whether it’s personal or work-related challenges, the EAP is here to help improve your well-being.Educational Assistance Advance your career with County-supported education! Full-time employees may be reimbursed for approved courses relevant to their role.Longevity Rewards We recognize and reward your dedication with additional monthly compensation for continuous service milestones.Thriving Work Environment We maintain a drug-free, smoke-free workplace that fosters professionalism and respect.Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion Mason County is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and upholds fair employment practices.Accommodations for All Applicants If you need accommodations during the selection process, we’re here to help! Contact our Human Resources Department at (360) 427-9670 Ext. 290.Join Mason County and build a rewarding career in a supportive and inclusive environment. Apply today to become part of our dedicated team!01Do you possess and maintain a First Aid/CPR/AED certification?

• Yes
• No

02Do you possess and maintain a valid WA State Driver’s License?

• Yes
• No
• No, I possess a driver’s license from another state.

03Do you have a death investigators certification through ABMDI (American Board of Medico-legal Death Investigators).04Are you able to pass a comprehensive background investigation, which shows no criminal activity that could directly impact ability to perform the job?

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