Job Summary
Clark County is currently creating a pool of qualified candidates to be considered for potential future vacancies in the Death Investigator classification.
The Death Investigator is responsible for the objective investigation of the circumstances of unnatural and/or unattended deaths. The work includes observing, evaluating, and documenting death scenes.
The work of the Death Investigator includes but is not limited to the use of digital photography; scene description (written summary and diagram); interviewing witnesses and other persons; collecting and summarizing information regarding the decedent from a variety of sources; lifting, loading, and transportation of human remains; and notification of next of kin.
Death Investigators may be the first official to contact the family of the decedent and as such, are required to be sensitive and exhibit an understanding of the initial grieving process. The Death Investigator compiles the investigative information regarding the death and prepares an investigative report for review and approval by the Medical Examiner.
This position is represented by Local 8 - Medical Examiner’s Office Unit - International Longshore and Warehouse Union.
**First review of applications will be August 5, 2020. This posting may close at any time after August 5 without additional notice.**
Qualifications
Experience and Training:
An Associate’s Degree is required with work experience performing criminal, civil, and/or death investigations. A Bachelor’s Degree is preferred with work experience performing criminal, civil, and/or death investigations. Any equivalent combination of education or experience in medical, criminal justice, or related fields that would demonstrate the ability to perform the requirements of the position will be considered.
Special Requirements:
Possession of a valid driver’s license unrestricted except as to vision from state of residence and evidence of a safe driving record.
Successfully pass a background investigation (including a criminal records check and fingerprinting), drug screen, physical abilities test, and psychological examination.
Carry an employer-issued cell phone while on shift.
Work as a team member and independently utilize strong decision making and critical thinking skills that are within the scope of this position.
Work variable shifts to include: nights, afternoons, days, holidays, weekends, and emergency situations. May be on on-call status 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Must possess or attain American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigator (ABMDI) Registry Certification within 24 months of date of appointment to position.
Knowledge of: interviewing, criminal investigation and identification procedures and techniques; methods, practices, equipment and procedures involved in handling human remains; human anatomy and physiological functions of the human body; data collection, report writing principles; procedures necessary to prepare a body for autopsy and to assist during an autopsy; pertinent federal, state and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Ability to: communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing; prepare clear, concise but thorough, grammatically correct written reports; work in an unpredictable environment that may be at times stressful and exhibit appropriate sensitivity in situations involving relatives and friends of decedents; gather, verify, compile and evaluate information and other data; evaluate and preserve evidence that would assist the Medical Examiner in providing an opinion concerning the cause and manner of death; provide effective and credible courtroom testimony; appropriately manage the emotional burden of repetitive exposure to death and human remains in various stages of decomposition, disease, and trauma; maintain the confidentiality and integrity of information; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; proficiently keyboard and use computer software applications including Microsoft Word, Outlook, Internet Explorer, and various search engines; operate other related office equipment.
An online application is required. For complete job announcement, application requirements, and to apply on-line, please visit our website at:
https://www.clark.wa.gov/human-resources/explore-careers-clark-county
Salary Grade: Local 8.050 ($4,537.00 - $6,116.00) per month
With its great natural beauty, Clark County, Washington, always has attracted people and businesses. We welcome those who visit and settle here, providing fresh perspectives, growing diversity and vibrant energy.
Our forward-looking community is framed by the scenic Cascade Range to the east and the majestic Columbia River to the south and west. The area is a picturesque place to work, play, and live.
Named for Captain William Clark of Lewis and Clark Expedition fame, our county is one of the fastest growing regions in Washington state and the Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area. Today, more than 467,000 people call Clark County home.
Clark County government works to enhance the quality of life for all of our diverse community by providing services with integrity, openness and accountability. We are one of the county's largest employers, providing a wide range of rewarding careers for about 1,570 people.