Lead Medicolegal Death Investigator

• Evaluates scenes through photographic and written documentation, and utilizes an electronic case management system for maintaining all reports and photographs pertaining to the investigation
• Obtains pertinent case information by interviewing first responders, witnesses, healthcare providers and family.
• Conducts an external body examination using photographs and written documentation.
• Examine the body for trace evidence.
• Outlines the scope and course of a death investigation, determines whether to perform an autopsy, toxicology, or if other laboratory tests are needed as required by law.
• Preserves and documents evidence.
• Establish positive decedent identification through scientific methods if necessary.
• Notifies the next of kin or assists with the search for next of kin when necessary.
• Secures and prepares the body and personal belongings for transport to the morgue, ME’s office or release to a local funeral home.
• Exercises the authority to determine the official cause and manner of death based on investigative findings, evidence, and consultation with the Medical Examiner and forensic pathologists as necessary, and has the authority to sign the death certificate.

• Intakes data from deaths that occur at medical facilities, and determine Medical Examiner jurisdiction
• Collects and reviews medical records and history, consulting with attending or primary care physicians to identify factors contributing to the death.
• Communicates with Next of Kin throughout death investigation.
• Coordinates transports to/from scene, to/from Morgue and to/from ME office.
• Corresponds with ME Office performing autopsies.
• Authorizes organ donation via Donor Network.
• Supplies toxicology and autopsy reports to DA/law enforcement agencies.
• Testifies in civil and criminal court cases when necessary.

• Obtaining Cremation Request Forms from Funeral Homes
• Scheduling/coordinates views with Funeral Homes
• Perform external body examination and photography of the body for every view
• Input all information obtained in the electronic case management system
• Reviews the signed death certificate to ensure there are no discrepancies or suspicion of unnatural causes of death.
• Once all documentation is verified the Cremation Permit may be signed by the Lead MDI or Medical Examiner and issued to the requesting funeral home.

• Supervises, coordinates, and directs the action of MDI as requested under the direction of the Medical Examiner
• Reviews investigative reports
• Direct educational and training programs for staff members and law enforcement agencies and others as requested under the direction of the Medical Examiner
• Attend and participate in meetings (budget, training, fatality review team, etc.)

• Maintains morgue admission and releases to/from Morgue, other ME offices, and funeral homes
• Maintain vehicle cleanliness and stocking of ME vans and cots
• Assist the Medical Examiner in maintaining finances and logs at the discretion of the Medical Examiner

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s degree in such areas as forensic science, biological or medical science, anatomy, anthropology, nursing, or closely related field AND 3 years (preferred) of work experience in medicolegal death investigation or closely related field.

• Requires demonstrated knowledge of medical terminology, medicine as it pertains to death, and varying forms of trauma.
• Using medical and legal investigative techniques and procedures in a setting consistent with the duties of the position.

• Must have a valid Wisconsin Driver’s License.
• Must successfully pass criminal background check and preemployment physical.
• Ability to receive ABMDI certification during employment.

• 1st Shift Position that requires some evening, nights, and weekend availability.
• Alternating weekly on-call, as back up for the investigators.
• Must commit to monthly on-call hours which may include daytime, evening, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid Wisconsin driver’s license and access to personal transportation, or other reliable means of city and rural travel on a 24-hour basis.
• Knowledge of the statutory duties affecting the Medical Examiner’s Office, methods of conducting death investigations, and supervisory techniques.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective public relations and working relationships with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.
• Ability to exercise judgment and make independent decisions to oversee the work of staff, communicate effectively, orally, and in writing, and interact effectively with co-workers and the general public.

• Work requires operating motor vehicles. This may involve driving in inclement weather conditions.
• Work occasionally requires exposure to outdoor weather conditions.
• Work may require working in dangerous situations.
• Work requires wearing specialized personal protective equipment.
• May be subject to exposure to blood/body fluids and infectious and communicable diseases in various environments.

Ozaukee County offers a generous benefits package including: health, dental, life, & vision insurance; free employee health clinic & Teladoc; paid holidays, vacation, & sick time; state of Wisconsin WRS defined benefit pension program; bonus opportunities; employee fitness room; wellness program & wellness reimbursement; tuition reimbursement & continuing education opportunities; and more! Please note some that benefits offered are dependent on full-time/part-time status.

Ozaukee County prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type against applicants and employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, disability, genetics, veteran status or military service, marital status or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic or status protected by federal, state or local laws. Ozaukee County also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws.