Autopsy Technician II

State of North Carolina

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Autopsy Technician II supports the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner by performing advanced technical tasks associated with medicolegal autopsies and maintaining a safe, compliant autopsy environment. This position conducts detailed anatomical procedures, prepares and obtains specimens, photographs and radiographs decedents, and manages records within the Medical Examiner Information System. It also handles the receipt, release, and transport of bodies, maintains facility cleanliness and equipment readiness, and preserves the chain of custody for evidence. The technician coordinates with law enforcement and public health agencies as needed, including during suspected bioterrorism events or mass fatalities. The role functions as a senior-level technician and provides guidance and training to entry-level staff.

Requirements

• Associate Degree in the biological/anatomical, forensic, mortuary/funeral, or criminal justice sciences from an appropriately accredited institution and two years of experience in the field of pathology, forensic pathology or decedent care OR An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated experience performing eviscerations, gross anatomical dissections, and specimen collection with intermediate to expert proficiency in medicolegal autopsy procedures.
• Proven skill operating and maintaining digital photography and radiography equipment to document decedent condition and support forensic casework.
• Strong proficiency managing case information in electronic systems, including accurate data entry, record logging, and documentation tracking for autopsy and investigative activities.
• Demonstrated experience following strict safety protocols, including handling infectious materials, performing decontamination procedures, and managing medical waste in compliance with OSHA and facility standards.
• Effective collaboration experience working with medical examiners, law enforcement, and public health personnel during investigations, including supporting evidence handling and maintaining chain‑of-custody requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assist with medicolegal autopsies by performing eviscerations, gross dissections, and specimen collection for microscopic examination.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA and OCME safety requirements, including proper handling of infectious materials and disposal of medical waste.
• Photograph decedents and perform radiographic procedures to support forensic documentation.
• Manage body receipt, release, transportation, and storage in accordance with established procedures.
• Clean and disinfect autopsy facilities and equipment following approved protocols to maintain a safe working environment.
• Handle and document evidence while preserving chain-of-custody requirements.
• Enter and update case information in the Medical Examiner Information System (MEIS) and maintain accurate autopsy records.
• Coordinate with law enforcement and public health agencies during investigations and in response to potential bioterrorism or mass fatality events.
• Oversee inventory of autopsy supplies and equipment to ensure operational readiness.
• Provide technical guidance, instruction, and support to Autopsy Technician I staff.

Benefits

• State Health Plan and State of NC Employee Benefits
• Employees can participate in health insurance options, standard and supplemental retirement plans, and the NCFlex program (numerous high-quality, low-cost benefits on a pre-tax basis).
• Employees also receive paid vacation, sick, and community service leave.
• In addition, paid parental leave is available to eligible employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees