Deputy Medical Examiner, Medical Examiner's Office

Job Summary

This position is responsible for the investigation or supervision of investigations for all types of deaths. Performs medico-legal investigations, autopsies, and examinations, and orders analytical testing to determine the accurate cause and manner of death, including investigations within the jurisdiction of the Webb County Medical Examiner in accordance with Articles 49.0 and 49.25, Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Texas Family Code, and the Texas Health and Safety Codes, including those cases contracted with other counties outside of Webb.

Major Duties

Conducts post-mortem examinations to determine cause and manner of death.

Orders appropriate analytical testing.

Collects specimens and evidentiary materials and requests testing.

Dictates findings upon completion of post-mortem examinations.

Prepares written opinion reports regarding case findings, including the interpretation and findings.

Signs official death certificate.

Promptly reviews and signs Medical Examiner reports.

Responds to scenes when necessary or requested.

Assists in the recovery of decedents.

Provides family conferences in person and by telephone to family members of the deceased to increase the level of understanding of causes of death, manner of death, and physiologic and psychological mechanisms involved.

Responsible for assisting with the review of all medical investigator reports to ensure accuracy.

Provides expert forensic pathology witness testimony in Local and State court proceedings, including testimony in out-of-county autopsy cases.

Confers with attorneys, law enforcement, physicians, family members, and the general public, as required.

Performs related duties as assigned by the Chief Medical Examiner.

Minimum Qualifications

Licensed to practice medicine as a medical doctor in the State of Texas, issued by the Texas Medical Board.

Completion of an accredited fellowship in forensic pathology.

Board certification in Anatomic/Clinical or Anatomic Pathology by the American Board of Pathology or the Board of Osteopathy.

Board eligible/certified in Forensic Pathology by the American Board of Pathology or the Board of Osteopathy.

Supplemental Information

Medicolegal investigation of death techniques.

Modern forensic pathology methods and techniques.

Standard autopsy room protocols.

Rules and collection of evidence.

Federal, State, Local, and County applicable laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines.

Budgeting development, process, and maintenance.

Policies, practices, procedures, and terminology of assigned function.

Principles and procedures of record keeping.

Business English, spelling, and arithmetic.

Skill in: Using and caring for autopsy room equipment, photography equipment, and a microscope.

Holding inquests, and documenting results of application of forensic pathology, toxicology, histology, and other medical-legal procedures.

Explaining complicated technical problems in simple non-technical language.

Problem-solving and decision-making.

Dealing effectively and professionally with distraught, upset, or potentially volatile family members or situations.

Interpret, follow, and enforce written rules, policies, procedures, codes, ordinances, and regulations. Work independently.

Deal with a death-related environment daily and unpleasant odors associated with autopsies.