Forensic Autopsy Technician

King County • Seattle, WA

9h • Onsite

About The Position

The King County Medical Examiner’s Office (KCMEO) is an interesting and challenging place to work. We deal with all sudden, unexpected, and unnatural deaths in the 12th most populous county in the nation. Everyone works hard, but they also appreciate and respect one another. The King County Medical Examiner’s Office is looking for a full time; career service Forensic Autopsy Technician I. Technicians work alongside Forensic Pathologists to help them determine cause and manner of death. They conduct evisceration, take photographs and CTs, collect samples for toxicology and histology and a range of other activities. There are 6 technicians along with one lead. Note: This posting will create a list of qualified candidates that may be considered for selection of additional vacancies of the same position type over the next 6 months.

Requirements

• Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology beyond high school level
• Knowledge of trace evidence and chain of custody
• Knowledge of basic firearm safety
• Skill in time management, organization, and attention to detail
• Skill in problem solving
• Able to take direction, work independently, prioritizing own work and meeting deadlines
• Able to work as part of a team
• Skill in handling several tasks simultaneously
• Skill in following written directions and protocols
• Skill in dealing with death and with human remains in various stages of decomposition, disease, and trauma
• Skill in handling the psychological effect of death for a spectrum of individuals in the community
• Skill in treating human remains with sensitivity and respect
• Skill in maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of information
• Skill in handling stress associated with work duties
• Skill in handling crisis and emergency situations
• Knowledge of skeletal biology, including individual bone identification
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Knowledge in operating standard office equipment
• Must be able to lift up to 175lbs
• Washington State Driver's License OR ability to obtain upon hire

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting medicolegal autopsies
• Experience in a large urban Medical Examiner office

Responsibilities

• Assist pathologists in opening, eviscerating, and closing bodies and collecting toxicological samples during autopsies.
• Perform photographic documentation of bodies, wounds and associated evidentiary aspects of the case.
• Operate and maintain photographic equipment and digital images.
• Clean and prepare bodies for autopsy and subsequent release to funeral homes.
• Collect, catalog, and maintain evidence from autopsy to release to appropriate investigating agency.
• Perform custodial maintenance for autopsy room, storage areas and coolers, and arrange decedents.
• Wash and dry laundry used in autopsies.
• Order and inventory supplies and materials.
• Perform radiography (CT, dental, fluoroscopy X-rays) and determine X-ray placement and composition.
• Transport specimens to labs.
• Wash and bag sample tissue and store for future reference by pathologist.
• Take toxicology and histology samples to external laboratories for processing and label and distribute slides to pathologist.
• Compile data in the electronic case management system as well as complete and file forms.
• Assist or perform procedures as indicated for the identification of remains.
• Assist in field investigations as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Forbes named King County as one of Washington State's best employers.
• King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
• Employees are required to protect the privacy and security of protected health information as defined in State and Federal Law.
• Public Health relies on office automation (Microsoft Office) and web-based enabled tools, therefore candidates must be proficient and comfortable with computer use to perform functions associated with on-going work.
• Employees are required to adhere to OSHA/WISHA guidelines including but not limited to completing their mandatory trainings on time and obtaining required immunizations.
• Regular and reliable attendance, effective communication skills, and development of effective working relationships are requirements of all Public Health positions.
• When Public Health responds to an emergency, and in accordance with relevant CBA language and/or KC policy and procedures, we may assign duties outside your regular job description. This may involve responding at any time, including nights and weekends, with possible deployment to locations other than the department.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED