Forensic Morgue Assistant

The incumbent provides assistance to Medical Examiners during autopsies and physical examinations of decedents, including but not limited to photography, incisions and suturing, maintenance of personal effects, detailed documentation and preparation of laboratory specimens, and reports preparation.  The incumbent is required to lift and transfer bodies/human remains and may be required to transport bodies between Wilmington and Georgetown Division locations.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class.  Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Assists in the conduct of autopsies and other internal/external examinations by independently using a variety of equipment and techniques; performs closure of the body by replacing body parts and suturing the body after the medical examiner completes the exam; prepares skeletal remains and assists with their examination.
   
• Places bodies on the autopsy table, tags, weighs, measures, refrigerates and records required data/prepares necessary paperwork on bodies undergoing autopsies and/or external body examinations/inspections.  Performs post exam cleaning and prepares body for release.
   
• Photographs bodies and takes and develops radiographs using an x-ray machine for identification; lifts and manipulates bodies for x-rays to obtain evidence; and cleans x-ray equipment to eliminate cross contamination.
   
• Measures and records body fluid volumes removed during postmortem exam to ensure adequate quantities are provided for the evaluation of those fluids.
   
• Prepares fixation solutions that are used to prevent rapid decomposition of autopsy tissue for slide preparation; stores specimens in sterile containers and/or uses proper solutions depending on testing.
   
• Prepares, logs, labels and transfers or releases specimens and other evidence to the appropriate lab for further testing, or to law enforcement officials, following strict chain of custody protocol. 
   
• Ensures all biohazard wastes are collected, stored and disposed of accordingly and maintains proper storage of reagents for safe handling.
   
• Ensures proper maintenance and cleaning of the scrubs, linens, laundry room, autopsy room, table, floors and equipment, refrigeration facilities and other related areas to eliminate cross contamination and prepare for the next autopsy.
   
• Participates in quality assurance standards established by the National Association of Medical Examiners by performing secondary reviews of post mortem worksheets and documentation to ensure information on the forms for the decedents and evidence of samples collected is accurate.
   
• Uses an automated forensic information system and standard computer software to enter, modify, delete, retrieve and report on autopsy data; prepares the toxicology request, body sheets, and maintains a log book.
   
• Maintains pathology inventory and orders supplies for all autopsy and inspection related tools and equipment.
   
• Ensures that the decedent's clothing and personal effects are collected and go to the funeral home with the body.
   
• Contacts include internal agency personnel, as well as funeral homes, law enforcement, laboratory and medical personnel to answer questions, verify information, and coordinate the disposition of decedents, specimens, samples and evidence.
   
• Performs scene response with Forensic Investigators during special circumstances; transports decedents between morgue locations, reports to scenes and hospitals to assist with lifting, transfer, and/or transport of decedents.  

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Forensic Morgue Assistant
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Knowledge of collecting, tagging, securing, and preserving forensic samples, specimens, or other evidence in accordance with infection control laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures.
2. Knowledge of forensic photography which includes scene, autopsy, and macro imaging documentation as well as awareness of legal developments relating to digital and multimedia evidence.
3. Knowledge of medical and biological terminology.
4. Knowledge of weighing and measuring.
5. Six months experience in record keeping.
6. Six months experience in applying laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures.
7. Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

A satisfactory background check (including a fingerprint based background check administered by the Delaware State Police) is required as a Condition of Hire. The selected candidate will be required to submit a buccal swab for DNA upon employment and subjected to randomized drug testing during the term of their employment.

To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at statejobs.delaware.gov.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  To request an auxiliary aid or service please call (302) 739-5458. TDD users should call the Delaware Relay Service Number 1-800-232-5460 for assistance.  The State of Delaware – An Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.