Forensic Autopsy Technician

Salary : $41,932.80 - $61,380.80 Annually
Location : Ankeny - 50023 - Polk County, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 27-00431
Agency: 400 Health & Human Services - Public Health
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/24/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag: #LI-POST
Point of Contact: Sue Miranda - View email address on click.appcast.io


Job Description
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of Public Health, Bureau of Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner is seeking a Forensic Autopsy Technician to join our team!

This position will assist the forensic pathologist with moving and evisceration of bodies for autopsies, completing the forensic autopsy and restoring the body following examination by replacing organs, packing cavities and suturing the body closed including washing, disinfecting and shrouding the remains.


Photography will be required.


This position also includes ordering of testing and completion of paperwork.
Responsibilities:

• Assists the forensic pathologist with autopsies, completing paperwork and taking photographs before and during autopsy. Evisceration of organs and removal of skull-cap. Restoring the body by replacing organs, packing cavities, suturing the body closed and cleaning of the body.
• Keeps chain of custody when receiving, storing, or transferring/releasing of bodies, evidence, toxicology and specimens.
• Maintains the autopsy suite, associated areas and equipment by ensuring they are kept clean and stocked with supplies.
• Observes and records facts clearly, accurately and legibly.

Requirements:

• Must be able to move/roll heavy objects (bodies ~300 pounds or more) by oneself or with the assistance of another employee.
• Must be able to work 6-8 hours at a time while standing.
• Tolerates and works with unpleasant sights, sounds, and odors in a sometimes-stressful environment.
• Will be required to work occasional weekends.

Benefits

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage!
• Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation (96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).
• Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses.
• Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges.
• Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs.

For additional information on benefits click here.

Click here to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator.
Background Checks

Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position.
The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer

HHS values those with "lived experience" and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired - Relay Iowa View phone number on click.appcast.io TDD).
E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit
All work performed on behalf of Iowa Health and Human Services must occur in the State of Iowa.
Minimum Qualification Requirements


Graduation from an accredited area college with an Associate's Degree in Medical Laboratory Science or any other healthcare profession;
OR
experience equal to one year of full-time work in hospital and/or emergency medical services;
OR
experience equal to one year of full-time work as a phlebotomist;
OR
any combination of the above.

For additional information, please click on this .
Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyGain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01


Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question. Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.
• No

02



PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03


Have you graduated from an accredited area college with an Associate's Degree in Medical Laboratory Science or any other healthcare profession?

• Yes
• No

04


How many months of experience do you have of full-time work in hospital and/or emergency medical services?

• I do not have any of the identified experience
• Less than 12 months of the identified experience
• 12 months or more of the identified experience

05


How many months of experience do you have of full-time work as a phlebotomist?

• I do not have any of the identified experience
• Less than 12 months of the identified experience
• Twelve months or more of the identified experience

06


How many years do you have of a combination of post high school education in Medical Laboratory Science or any other healthcare profession AND/OR full time experience in hospital and/or emergency medical services or phlebotomist? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.

• I do not have any of the education and/or experience
• Less than two years of the combined education and/or experience
• Two years or more of the combined education and/or experience

Required Question