Forensic Pathologist (#PT9 )
$126.44-$169.46 hourly / $21,915.85-$29,372.50 monthly / $262,995.20-$352,476.80 yearly

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Definition

Under general direction, to perform autopsies and other professional work in forensic pathology to determine cause and time of death; to act as a professional consultant and provide expert witness services; and to do other work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a single-position class in the Sheriff-Coroners Office and is responsible for directing and coordinating the forensic pathology activities. This class is distinguished from other Physician classes in that it requires specific training; experience and board certification in the specialty of forensic pathology, as well as the performance of duties associated with the medico-legal investigation of death or injuries.

Typical Tasks

Establishes standards for conducting autopsies and maintaining chain of custody
Performs forensic autopsies and external examination of bodies;
Evaluates historical and law-enforcement investigative information in order to establish cause and time of death and whether death was due to natural causes, accident, suicide, homicide, or is undetermined;
Collects medical evidence such as trace evidence and secretions;
Performs chemical and/or microscopic examinations of tissues and fluids;
Submits samples of body fluids, tissues and other findings to laboratories for toxicology and clinical laboratory examination when analysis may be required;
Performs forensic scene investigations;
Directs crime scene investigators for evidence collection;
Directs and ensures the preservation of legal, physical, and medical evidence, ensuring that the chain of custody is maintained;
Performs scene reconstruction;
Dictates medical findings and prepares case reports on observations and interpretations;
Confers with judicial, law enforcement and medical personnel and assists in interpreting autopsy findings for the purpose of reconstructing events leading to the determination of causes and manner of death;
Develops, plans and prepares standardized procedures and protocols;
Testifies in court and legal proceedings;
Provides forensic pathology services in emergencies that include natural disasters, major incidents and civil disorder;
Provides training in forensic evidence collection and death investigation to law enforcement personnel;
Provides technical direction to the Coroner Forensic Technician;
Oversees the work of contract forensic pathologists as necessary;
Provides advisory and consultative services to Sheriffs Office personnel, law enforcement agencies, District Attorney and various governmental bodies and to Public Health Service professionals.

Employment Standards

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge:
Thorough knowledge of:

Principles and practices of modern medicine and autopsy techniques;
Current and highly specialized techniques, investigative procedures and equipment utilized in forensic pathology, including applicability of toxicology, ballistics/firearm examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic anthropology, DNA technology and interpretation of histology and clinical chemistry necessary to determine the circumstances, cause, manner, and time of death;
Forensic evidence collection techniques and procedures;
Rules and regulations applicable to court testimony;
Statutes, ordinances, regulations and medico-legal issues related to the Coroner Medical Examiner and death investigation;
Current safety practices and issues pertinent to Public Health;
Principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership.

Ability to:

Perform pathological medico-legal examinations, investigations, and autopsies.
Review and evaluate complex investigations, autopsy reports, evidence discovered at death scenes and other specific findings to establish the cause of death.
Keep informed of current techniques, procedures and equipment in forensic pathology.
Prepare and maintain accurate, comprehensive and concise records and reports.
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Testify clearly and concisely in court trials, inquests, and legal proceedings.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those encountered in the course of work.
Provide technical direction to subordinate staff.
Oversee the work of contract forensic pathologists.
Work while standing for long periods.
Move bodies of decedents for inspection, analysis and autopsy.
Operate and move laboratory tables carrying decedents.
Pushing, pulling, and lifting decedents with appropriate equipment and assistance as necessary.
Possess sufficient physical dexterity to manipulate and operate laboratory equipment.
Work closely in cooperation with crime scene investigators and detectives.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience working as a licensed physician in the field of Forensic Pathology.

Special Requirements:

Possession and maintenance of a valid Physician and Surgeon•s License issued by the State of California.
Possession and maintenance of a valid certificate in anatomic and forensic pathology issued by the American Board of Pathology.
Possession and maintenance of a valid California Class C Driver License or the incumbent must provide suitable transportation approved by the appointing authority.

Background Investigation:

Successfully pass a complete background investigation.

Special Working Conditions:

Work in bio-hazard environment, subject to fumes, odors, blood and other bodily fluids, and communicable diseases.
Willingness to work flexible hours, which may include weekends, holidays and shift work.
Mentally and physically capable of performing the classifications essential functions as summarized in the typical tasks section of this job specification.

EST: 6/12 REV: 5/25 Analyst: CL, MM

Miscellaneous

Previous Class Title: None

Bargaining Unit: 08

EEOC: 02

Occupational Group: 61

Workers Compensation Code: 0290