(Non-competitive)
This is a professional and scientific position in the specialized field of forensic pathology involving responsibility for investigating deaths, performing autopsies, and conducting pathological and toxicological interpretations. The Pathologist receives direction from the Medical Examiner in the performance of acceptable standard autopsy procedure with latitude for the exercise of independent judgment and medical/legal decision-making. Supervision is exercised over subordinate personnel. Does related work as required.
Investigates all reported deaths to establish medical examiner’s office jurisdiction, which includes review of medical records, circumstances of death and/or scene investigation.
Performs autopsies and related actions including gross examination, review of supplemental (toxicology and other laboratory) reports, and microscopic slides (tissue findings) to determine the scientific and legally defensible cause and manner of death.
Issues death certificates.
Documents findings with a written autopsy report and photographs in a fashion satisfactory for statistical and legal purposes.
Testifies in court as expert medical witness, including meeting with District Attorneys and/or other attorneys.
Contacts physicians, family members, and other agencies to transfer information in a useful, timely and appropriate fashion; uses professional judgment and sensitivity in how information is to be released.
Acts as a consultant to physicians, dentists, other agencies and medical staff of various local hospitals in the field of forensic pathology.
Supervises the morgue staff in the medical aspects of their work.
Provides in-service training to Medical Examiner employees.
Acts as a source of public health information and education in the community.
Attends conferences and meetings and serves on medical, civic or special committees as requested.
Assists in instructional activities of a medical nature where the Medical Examiner's Office interfaces with other agencies, such as medical or mortuary schools or in teaching activities at a university or college.
Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL
CHARACTERISTICS
Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices, literature, methods, techniques and current developments in the field of forensic pathology.
Thorough knowledge of standard, acceptable autopsy procedures.
Thorough knowledge of laboratory techniques relating to pathology and histology.
Ability to perform advanced research in the field.
Ability to assemble data and to prepare comprehensive technical interpretive reports.
Ability to supervise and participate in the conduct of complex pathological laboratory tests.
Initiative, resourcefulness, personal sensitivity and compassion.
A)Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a degree of Doctor of Medicine, and;
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B) American Board of Pathology certification in anatomic pathology and board certification/eligibility in forensic pathology.
Note: Successful candidate not board certified in forensic pathology is required to obtain certification within two (2) years of employment.
Possession of a current license to practice medicine in New York State.
Valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or otherwise demonstrated capacity to meet the transportation needs of the job.
A fingerprint background check and criminal history and background investigation are required prior to appointment.
5/2009 Date Revised