ASSISTANT MEDICAL EXAMINER 9531

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under supervision, an employee in this class acting as a pathologist trainee conducts independent and confidential investigations, examinations and autopsies on persons who have died from a variety of violent and non-violent causes. This appointment shall be for a period of one (1) year. The employee is responsible for the legal follow-up at depositions and/or trial on his/her cases and interacts appropriately with decedents' families, law enforcement personnel and other legitimately interested persons. Supervision is received directly at first, from a pathologist, decreasing as the incumbent gains forensic experience and demonstrates an ability to assume progressively greater responsibility for the evaluation and investigation of deaths that come under the Medical Examiner's jurisdiction. Work is reviewed by the Chief Medical Examiner and the Deputy Medical Examiners through daily staff conferences and oral and written reports. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Performs autopsies on victims of homicide, suicide, accident, and ostensibly natural deaths that are sudden, unexpected, or suspicious;

Performs external examinations on persons who are Medical Examiner's cases but do not require autopsy;

Participates in scene investigations of violent, suspicious, and unexpected deaths;

Participates in daily departmental conferences to discuss present cases and provide follow-up on open investigations;

Explains autopsy findings to families of the decedents, law enforcement personnel, and other legitimately interested persons;

Coordinates autopsy case studies with the investigations conducted by the toxicology and crime laboratories;

Testifies as an expert witness at depositions and in court;

Prepares reports of autopsies and scene investigations;

Acts as a representative of the Office of the Medical Examiner in matters of public education and professional liaison.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Through knowledge of basic anatomic pathology and general medicine; ability to observe, analyze, and make detailed records of facts related to scene investigations and autopsies; ability to establish and maintain harmonious and effective working relations with departmental staff, law enforcement officers, and the general public; ability to maintain competence and demeanor at all times when working under stress and in emergency situations; ability to be an effective expert witness; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Possession of a license to practice medicine or osteopathy in the State of New York and two (2) years of training in anatomic pathology in a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

03/03/86

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Pending (Non-competitive)