MEDICAL FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR 2847

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

An employee in this class conducts independent and confidential investigations of deaths resulting from natural, accidental, suicidal, criminal, suspicious or undetermined causes. The incumbent interviews witnesses, records detailed observations of the scene, takes photographs, collects evidence and reviews appropriate physician and hospital records. Investigations are performed to obtain a factual history and record of events with emphasis on manner and circumstance of death. Supervision is provided by the Supervising Medical Forensic Investigator through conferences and submission of detailed reports. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Conducts investigations of homicides, suicides and unexplained natural or accidental deaths;

Interviews witnesses to obtain information useful to the Medical Examiner's office;

Performs observations of the death scene; prepares detailed descriptions including pertinent facts relating to the cause and manner of death;

Examines and takes possession of bodies; directs and supervises their transport to the Medical Examiner's office;

Identifies and establishes evidentiary value of items, to include samples for toxicologic analysis; documents evidence and directs its removal, while safeguarding the quality and chain of evidence;

Obtains and/or coordinates positive identification of bodies through visual personal identification affidavit, x-ray, dental records, descriptive evidence and fingerprint records;

Investigates deaths as required for cremation clearance;

Identifies immediate life-threatening conditions and takes/coordinates action to remove hazards;

Draws blood samples and obtains biological exemplars for evidentiary purposes at the direction of police agencies, courts or its authorized agents for DWI cases and non-testimonial evidence;

Testifies in court; provides expert witness;

Provides information to family and authorized others as to cause of death, manner and circumstance, thus providing preventative counseling, understanding and education;

Independently identifies scope and need for follow up investigation;

Carries out related investigations and interviews as assigned;

Acts as a representative from the office of the Chief Medical Examiner, as directed, in matters of public education and professional liaison;

Recommends release of bodies or the need for autopsies based on preliminary investigation;

Prepares detailed reports and keeps records regarding investigations.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Thorough knowledge of modern forensic investigative methods & procedures; good knowledge of what constitutes and how to safeguard evidence; ability to observe, record and analyze facts and to prepare thorough, accurate reports based on those facts; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with physicians, hospital personnel, law enforcement and other governmental agencies and the general public; ability to deal sympathetically and objectively with people under stress; good judgment; tact; persistence; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Possession of a Physician's Assistant Registration Certificate issued by New York State, and one (1) year of experience as a Physician's Assistant certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician's Assistants or otherwise certified experience.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Possession of a Physician's Assistant Registration Certificate issued by New York State at time of appointment and throughout employment in this position.

Depending upon assignment, candidates may be required to be credentialed by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services’ Compliance Bureau Credentialing Committee, and maintain this credential throughout employment in the assignment.

At the time of appointment and throughout employment in this title, employees are required to possess a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State.

R03/20/12

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive

Review 7/23/15