Autopsy Technician

Summary

Essential Duties

• Must be able to create labels with appropriate case numbers as well as set up all necessary forms and materials as directed by the ME.
• Appropriately document evidence/property to include change of custody form.
• Proper knowledge of photography of human remains, personal belongings and evidence using appropriate labels as directed by the ME.
• Assist ME with evidence/property identification, documentation, transfer and retention.
• Communicate professionally as a representative of Lubbock County ME (LCME) with officials from all agencies, as well as any individuals involved in each investigation as directed by LCME.
• Create a chain of custody and obtain transfer signatures for all evidence, personal belongings and biological specimens as directed by ME.
• Create and maintain necessary paperwork, scene photographs and evidence/personal belongings, Chain of Custody information for all deaths reported to LCME where such requirements are mandated by policy.
• Take and process X-Rays as directed by ME.
• Assist with evisceration and specialized dissections, and other autopsy needs, as directed by ME.
• Close postmortem incisions, clean human remains and return to cooler as directed by ME.
• Secure remains for transport.
• Meet mortuary transport at LCME and document arrival and identification of remains and evidence/belongings in the appropriate required fashion.
• Prepare autopsy forms and/or requisitions for specimen/evidence submission for testing/analysis.
• Facilitate transfer/submission of specimens/evidence using proper chain of custody transfer forms, as directed by ME.
• Must be available for release and acceptance of bodies and comply with all necessary documentation and verification.
• Prepare and mail letters to the decedents next of kin in regards to property in the custody of the medical examiners office and how they may obtain it.
• Any and all other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate. Proficiency of investigation and autopsy procedures demonstrated through job performance and examinations within 12 months of hire date.

Supplemental Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Maintain the ability to occasionally stand, walk, kneel and bend during the shift Reach, grip and use fine dexterity Push and pull objects Occasionally flex upper trunk forward at the waist and partially at the knees Occasionally lift and carry up to 20 pounds Occasionally rotate upper trunk to the left or right while sitting or standing Place arms above, at or below shoulder height Use of vision and depth perception Ability to speak clearly and hear. Malodorous smells are common.

DISCLAIMER: The above description reflects the details considered necessary to describe the standard functions of this position and should not be constructed as a thorough description of all work requirements. The characteristics of the work environment described are representative of those that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Employment and Affirmative Action Employer: Lubbock County will not discriminate in our employment practices based on an applicant’s race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.