Medicolegal Death Investigator

The Medicolegal Death Investigator (MDI) is a critical role within the Lubbock County Medical Examiner's office, responsible for conducting thorough and professional investigations into deaths that fall under the jurisdiction of the office.

• Conduct death scene investigations, gathering evidence and working closely with law enforcement personnel to ensure proper collection and preservation of evidence.
• Interview family members, witnesses, law enforcement, physicians, and other relevant individuals to assist in determining the cause and manner of death.
• Examine the body and surrounding scene, documenting conditions through written reports and photography.
• Recognize, document, and preserve evidence, personal belongings, and biological specimens, ensuring proper Chain of Custody.
• Investigate deaths falling under the Medical Examiner's jurisdiction, including out-of-county cases, and document circumstances through reports and photography.
• Perform professional-level analysis of gathered data to assist in determining the cause and manner of death.
• Enter detailed death investigation reports, scene photographs, and evidence information into the data collection system.
• Prepare necessary paperwork for specimen/evidence submission and facilitate transfer using proper Chain of Custody forms.
• Maintain accurate records and files in both paper and electronic formats.
• Communicate with next-of-kin, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and other relevant parties to facilitate information sharing and case progress.
• Notify and exchange information with other public agencies as necessary.
• Provide information and assistance to family members of decedents, ensuring sensitive handling of information.
• Handle inquiries and requests for information, responding within established guidelines.
• Assist in providing training and information to staff, interns, and other interested parties.
• Collect, document, secure, track, and dispose of the decedent's personal property.
• Facilitate the disposition of the body, including indigent and unclaimed bodies.
• Assist with identifying decedents and ensuring timely notification of next-of-kin.
• Receive decedent bodies and prepare them for disposition or further investigation as required.
• Provide direction and assistance to staff, responding to non-routine situations, especially those occurring outside of normal business hours.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues during investigations, including at crime scenes, any time of day or night.
• Offer guidance and support to fellow team members and newly assigned investigators, ensuring proper investigative techniques and protocols are followed.
• Testify in court or under deposition regarding findings from death investigations as required.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, statutes, regulations, and Medical Examiner's policies.
• Keep staff updated on any relevant changes in laws or procedures.
• Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as needed to support the smooth operation of the Medical Examiner's office and the completion of death investigations.

• Bachelor's degree in health sciences, physical sciences, or behavioral sciences or related field of study.
• Two (2) years or work-related experience required.
• Registered Medicolegal Investigator by ABMDI or eligibility to become registered within 24 months of hire.
• Knowledge of Texas county and state laws regarding death investigation.
• Ability to properly identify, photograph, document, preserve, and retain evidence and personal belongings.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Confidentiality of all that is seen and heard during the scope of the job is always required.
• Must have a valid Texas driver's license and background check.