Explore the critical requirements, core duties, primary responsibilities, and key skills that should be included in a comprehensive Coroner job description.
What does a Coroner do?
A coroner, also known as a medical examiner, is responsible for determining the cause of death of a person within a specific area. They may also conduct investigations into suspicious deaths. Coroners can be elected officials or qualified medical doctors, depending on the state.
Job Description
We are seeking an organized and experienced coroner to join our team. Your main responsibilities will include examining deceased individuals, determining cause of death, completing death certificates, notifying family members, maintaining records, and conducting investigations into sudden, unnatural, or violent deaths. You may also oversee staff, testify in court, and work with law enforcement.
The ideal candidate will have attention to detail, integrity, diligence, and compassion for others.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform autopsies or supervise medical examiners conducting them.
- Determine cause, manner, and time of death.
- Confirm the identity of the deceased.
- Certify deaths and complete death certificates.
- Collect and preserve any evidence related to the death.
- Notify next of kin.
- Arrange transportation of bodies to morgues.
- Provide testimony in legal proceedings.
- Maintain accurate records and reports.
- Communicate with public health officials, doctors, and law enforcement.
Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in law, medicine, or a related field.
- Qualified as a barrister, solicitor, or public official (depending on state) or a licensed medical doctor.
- Previous experience may be preferred.
- Knowledge of local laws and regulations.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organizational and administrative abilities.
- Proficiency with computers.
- Analytical and detail-oriented.