Chief Medical Examiner

FT / PT Status – Full-Time

Salary – $132.92 - $198.83 Hourly Wage

Remote Work / In-Office – Hybrid

Recruiter – Tammy Alfaro | ***email_hidden*** | View phone number on jobradars.com

Application Deadline – Open Until Filled

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is looking for a Chief Medical Examiner for the Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) .

Under administrative direction, the Chief Medical Examiner exercises considerable judgment authority and discretion in leading and directing the operations of the Office of the Medical Examiner, and assures that the provisions of the Medical Examiner Act are properly carried out.

Utilizing a unique blend of forensic pathology expertise, interpersonal skills, and management acumen, the Chief Medical Examiner leads the OME through a collaborative approach to decision making and problem solving by creating and leading teams, organizing and prioritizing the work of others, and building collaborative relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and directing a complex, fast-paced Medical Examiner’s Office while consistently demonstrating the highest of ethical and professional standards.
• Conducting, supervising, and/or directing medico-legal investigations and examinations, including autopsies and examinations.
• Preparing written reports regarding case findings, including the interpretation and findings.
• Issuing official death certificates and final report rulings as to the cause and manner of death.
• Acting as an expert consultant in forensic medicine in civil and/or criminal matters related to work done as a Utah OME employee.
• Providing expert testimony in court, depositions, pre-trial reviews and other proceedings related to work done as a Utah OME employee.
• Developing, directing, and/or evaluating programs as related to work at Utah OME.
• Acting as an expert consultant in forensic medicine.
• Conducting lectures and other education to law enforcement, medical, legal and other professional groups as necessary.
• Supervising pathologist, epidemiology, and investigative personnel including: hiring, determining workload and delegating assignments, training, monitoring and evaluating performance, and initiating corrective or disciplinary actions as necessary.
• Providing clinical oversight and training for the University of Utah forensic pathology fellowship program.
• Serving as a high-level liaison for the Department of Health and Human Services, managing complex public interests and inter-agency relations with professional discretion.
• Maintaining expertise in state statutes and codes to effectively present and discuss agency matters with the state legislature.

Qualifications

• Cultivate and execute a forward-thinking vision for the Office of the Medical Examiner while providing robust departmental management.
• Lead organizational change effectively, ensuring operational stability and team resilience during transitions.
• Optimize workplace morale and workflow efficiency to maintain unwavering focus on the agency’s mission.
• Demonstrate cognitive flexibility by transitioning seamlessly between diverse clinical, administrative, and strategic priorities.
• Analyze and resolve complex institutional challenges through sound problem-solving and foundational knowledge of Department of Health and Human Services operations.
• Engage with stakeholders, families, and staff with a consistent standard of sensitivity, tact, and professional diplomacy.

Minimum Requirements

• The Chief Medical Examiner must have a current unlimited license to practice medicine in the state of Utah (MD), per UCA 58-67-301 Licensure required--License classifications (1) A license is required to engage in the practice of medicine, on or for any person in Utah, as a physician and surgeon.
• American Board of Pathology certified as a Forensic Pathologist.
• Board certified in Anatomic Pathology or Anatomic/Clinical Pathology by the American Board of Pathology, per UCA 26-4 The chief medical examiner shall meet the qualifications of a forensic pathologist, certified by the American Board of Pathologists.

Preference

• Neuropathology experience preferred

About The Role

Location –

4451 South 2700 West

Taylorsville, Utah, 84129

United States

Background Check Required – Yes

Drug Test Required – No

Schedule Code – AD - Employees Reporting to Dept. Head, Commissioners, or Dept. Director

Why You Should Join Our Team

Benefits

In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah , click here . Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency

The Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) was established in 1972 and is a part of the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

We investigate all sudden, unexpected, violent, suspicious, or unattended deaths in Utah. This includes deaths related to accidents, homicides, suicides, and those without clear medical explanations. We determine the cause of death (the injury, illness, or disease that made the person die) and the manner of death (the general category of death, including natural, accident, homicide, suicide, or undetermined) for each case that we work on. For more information, click HERE

EEO Statement

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact View phone number on jobradars.com.