Coroner Job Description Template

Coroner

[Intro Paragraph] Show why your police department is a smart choice by discussing the values, culture, and any awards your department has received. You may also want to discuss any professional development initiatives your department offers, such as mentorship programs and trainings.

Coroner Job Responsibilities: Use this section of your coroner job description to list the main job responsibilities at your police department. Be sure to customize your list because the responsibilities will differ based on your state and county law. For example, in some states, autopsies can only be conducted by doctors. Depending on your hiring needs, you may want to include the following:

• Investigates sudden, unnatural, and unexplained deaths.
• Collects and analyzes crime scene evidence and medical records.
• Interviews witnesses, doctors, family members, and other sources.
• Performs autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death.
• Collaborates with law enforcement officials throughout the medicolegal process.
• Authorizes and files death certificates.
• Maintains all death records for the county.
• Appoints, trains, and manages deputy coroners.
• Arranges for the transportation of the deceased.
• Maintains confidentiality and discretion.
• Follows all departmental policies and procedures.
• Testifies as an expert witness in court as needed.

[Work Hours and Benefits] This is where you’ll note if you’re hiring a full-time or part-time coroner. If your police department has a shift schedule, mention the various shift days and times and whether the coroner would also need to be on call. Discuss the benefits you offer for the role, such as health insurance, life insurance, retirement planning, a pension, and paid time off.

Coroner Qualifications and Skills: Use these sections of your coroner job description to note the required and preferred skills and experiences. The qualifications will differ based on your state and county’s legal requirements. For example, there are education, age, and citizenship requirements in certain states. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most states don’t require coroners to have a medical license. However, there are different death investigation training requirements in each state. Here are some of the more common qualifications to get you started:

• Demonstrates advanced investigation and critical thinking skills and is diligent.
• Works closely with law enforcement officials, doctors, and families and has strong interpersonal skills.
• Communicates effectively and is comfortable leading meetings and testifying in court.
• Manages a team of deputy coroners and has strong leadership skills.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• An associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, forensic psychology, or a related major preferred.
• A certification from the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators is strongly preferred.
• At least [number] years of experience as a coroner, physician, or medical examiner is required.

[Call to Action] Optimize your coroner job posting by inviting candidates to apply. You may want to include next steps in the hiring process at your police department.