Medical Examiner

Salary: $31.91 - $52.68 HourlyLocation : Sheboygan, WIJob Type: Full TimeJob Number: 2024-166Department: Medical ExaminerOpening Date: 12/11/2024Purpose and SummaryWhy Sheboygan County?A career with Sheboygan County is more than just a job, it is an opportunity to serve a diverse and expanding community in meaningful ways. We challenge ourselves to be a different kind of government because we care deeply about our community and each other. Committed to our shared values, we provide excellent public service, seeking always to improve ourselves and our organization. Becoming a member of our growing team also means that YOU become our top priority. You will not only enjoy a dynamic work environment but a variety of perks including but not limited to the following:Generous benefits package and access to our free InHealth ClinicTime off: 15 vacation days upon hire, sick time and 10 paid holidaysOther perks: Referral program, Wisconsin Retirement System, education discount, quarterly recognition awards, wellness program and much moreThe purpose of this position is to serve as the Medical Examiner for the County. The individual in this role will be an appointed employee and is responsible for fulfilling the duties specified in Wisconsin Statutes §59.34, Chapters 69, and 979, as well as any other relevant statutes, administrative rules, and amendments that apply over time.These duties are likely to include determining the cause of death, conducting autopsies when necessary, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to the investigation of deaths. Essential Duties The Essential Duties of the Medical Examiner position include a broad range of responsibilities that ensure the efficient operation of the Medical Examiner's Office, investigation of deaths, and proper administration of related services. Below is a summary of the key duties:Personnel Management:Hire, train, evaluate, and supervise all Medical Examiner staff.Policy and Procedure Development:Develop and implement policies and procedures for the office.Reporting and Documentation:Complete state and federal forms and reports related to the office's duties.Record fees for services and ensure collection in coordination with the Finance Department.Budget and Financial Oversight:Prepare and administer the annual budget, monitor expenditures, and process payments.Manage the purchasing and maintenance of supplies and equipment.Public and Interagency Relations:Foster effective working relationships with law enforcement, medical professionals, County departments, and the public.Availability and Consultation:Be available 24/7 for consultation on death investigations and remain flexible in working different shifts.Death Investigation:Respond to reports of deaths within the County.Identify deceased individuals and notify next of kin, either personally or with assistance from other agencies.Investigate deaths, gather evidence, interview relevant parties, and assess the cause and manner of death.Autopsy and Evidence Management:Determine the need for autopsies and collect biological specimens.Supervise and/or attend autopsies related to criminal investigations.Obtain necessary documents, records, and interviews to determine the cause and manner of death.Cremation Permits:Issue cremation permits after reviewing the deceased and confirming no further investigation is needed.Testimony and Court Involvement:Testify in court as required, especially if evidence changes or further investigation is necessary.Collaboration with Funeral Homes:Coordinate with funeral homes regarding body disposition, including cremation authorizations, embalming permissions, and death certificates.Evidence Handling:Collect, maintain, and dispose of evidence, specimens, and records related to investigations.Disaster Planning:Maintain and implement the Disaster Morgue Plan and collaborate on broader disaster planning efforts.Other Duties:Perform additional tasks as assigned. Qualifications Educational RequirementsA minimum of two years of post-high school education in a relevant field such as:NursingMedical TechnologyChemistryBiologyMedicine (Pre-med)Paramedic/EMTForensic ScienceCriminal JusticeOr other closely related fields.Alternatively, a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.Experience:At least two years of medicolegal investigative experience.Availability:Must be available 24/7, unless proper replacement coverage is available and reported to dispatch/paging agency.Driver's License and Transportation:A valid Wisconsin driver's license and access to personal transportation or reliable means of travel to respond to both city and rural areas at any time.Statutory Knowledge:Understanding of statutory duties affecting the Medical Examiner's Office and the methods used in death investigations.Supervisory and Investigative Skills:Ability to effectively supervise staff, conduct medicolegal investigations, and oversee death investigation processes.Ability to make independent decisions and exercise judgment in complex cases.Public and Interagency Relations:Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.Effective in public relations and communication with other agencies and the public.Communication:Strong ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.Ability to interact professionally with co-workers and the general public.Physical, Sensory, and Cognitive Demands:Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, including standing, lifting, and other physically strenuous tasks.Ability to fulfill sensory demands, such as seeing and hearing, particularly in investigations.Cognitive abilities necessary for tasks that require concentration, memorization, and conceptualization.Confidentiality:Strong understanding of the need to maintain strict confidentiality in all aspects of the work. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Working Relationships:County Board Liaison:Supervision of Staff:Interaction with Professionals:The role requires significant interaction with various professionals, including:Funeral DirectorsHospitalsLaw Enforcement AgenciesPathologistsAttorneysInsurance CompaniesFederal and State Reporting AgenciesMediaFamilies of the DeceasedGeneral PublicCollaboration with Surrounding Counties: Sheboygan County offers a wide range of employee benefits. to view benefit overview.