SENIOR FORENSIC AUTOPSY TECHNICIAN
22510
(Non-competitive)
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS
The work involves responsibility for assisting before, during and after the autopsy by performing a variety of related activities, as well as overseeing and directing the day-to-day activities of Autopsy Technicians. An employee in this class works under the direct supervision of the Medical Examiner or designated administrative or medical supervisor and, at the supervisor's direction and when necessary, performs some of the activities of the Morgue Attendant. Does related work as required.
Assists the Medical Examiner by set-up before and clean up after the autopsy and renders dissection and assistance as directed by the Medical Examiner during the autopsy.
Eviscerates and weighs organs
Takes digital photographs and xrays.
May have to stand and/or climb on a footstool or examination table to take forensic photographs and/or x-rays
. Documents and maintains custody of evidence, medications and valuables associated with specific case investigations.
Packages and prepares evidence and specimens for storage or transport within a legal chain of custody.
Completes electronic chain of custody and other required documentation and performs data entry.
Ensures proper biohazard waste disposal according to protocol.
Processes decedents into the facility prior to examination, including required chain of custody and case information data entry and/or paperwork, and releases decedents to funeral homes.
Oversees, assigns coordinates with and contributes to performance evaluations of Forensic Autopsy Technicians, and provides training where appropriate.
Attends daily morning briefing meetings, or designates an alternative to attend.
Coordinates and facilitates training activities for, and monitors the progress of, newly hired Forensic Autopsy Technicians.
Performs general office duties, such as labeling and filing of microscopic slides and tissue blocks, general filing and computer data entry.
When providing front desk coverage, answers office phones, documents death notifications and initiates case records.
Assumes primary responsibility for all non-routine, send out testing, including following up to ensure results are received.
Participates in quality assurance review and completes reconciliation of property and evidence.
Assists other forensic consultants in forensic examinations, such as dental or anthropology examinations.
Assists in the collection and preservation of clothing, physical and biologic evidence for forensic analysis, including forensic toxicology, clinical chemistry, serology and microbiologic testing as directed and according to established procedures.
Maintains morgue and autopsy rooms and floors in a clean, sanitary and orderly manner; cleans and sterilizes equipment; checks for proper ventilation and condition of equipment.
Maintains inventory of supplies in the Medical Examiner’s office.
Uses county vehicle for transportation of specimens and medical records, and other errands as needed.
Testifies at court proceedings as needed.
Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.
Comprehensive knowledge of modern forensic and pathological laboratory principles and practices.
Thorough knowledge of medical nomenclature and anatomy.
Thorough knowledge of information needed to determine causes of death and New York State statutory requirements pertinent to Medical Examiners.
Thorough knowledge of various techniques utilized by the Medical Examiner in the conduct of autopsies.
Thorough knowledge of universal precautions and safety guidelines.
Ability to direct and oversee Forensic Autopsy Technicians.
Ability to train less experienced and/or newly hired employees.
Ability to work flexible work hours, shifts, weekends and holidays, including call-in duty.
Ability to lift and move heavy bodies.
Ability to take photographs and x-rays.
Ability to learn laboratory procedures.
Senior Forensic Autopsy Technician 22510
Ability to perform custodial work.
Ability to wear personal protective equipment necessary for performance of duties.
Ability to operate computers and use basic office programs.
Good organizational skills.
Manual dexterity.
Clerical aptitude.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Promotional:
Five (5) years of permanent, competitive class status in the title of Forensic Autopsy Technician II.
Open Competitive:
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 Bachelor’s degree related to a science (eg: biological or physical science), Funeral Service Arts and Sciences or a health-related curriculum (eg: nursing) or criminal justice/investigations and six (6) years of full-time work experience, or its part-time equivalent, as a forensic autopsy technician one (1) year of which must have involved responsibility for directing and/or overseeing subordinate employees; or,
B Ten (10) years of full-time work experience, or its part-time equivalent, performing work equivalent to a Forensic Autopsy Technician II, one (1) year of which must have involved responsibility for directing and/or overseeing subordinate employees.
SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENT:
When required to operate motor vehicles, employees must possess a valid Non-CDL or CDL with appropriate endorsements as required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles for the class of vehicle(s) being operated.
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: Applicants will be required to undergo a State and national criminal history background investigation, which will include a fingerprint check to determine suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification.
11/2018 Revised