CHIEF DEPUTY MEDICAL EXAM.3021100
Dallas, TX
| Employer: | Dallas County |
Description | |
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Brief Description Assists in planning, directing and supervising the activities of all laboratories and divisions within the Institute of Forensic Sciences, and serves in the place of the Director and Chief Medical Examiner in his/her absence. Participates in the strategic planning process for the Institute and undertakes special projects as assigned. Follows established protocols and exercises significant independent, professional judgment to Directs and conducts inquests (death investigations) for the purpose of determining the cause and manner of death. Provides forensic pathology consulting services for cases referred to the office by other jurisdictions, which provides fee revenues for Dallas County. Utilizes specialty consulting services, professional and paraprofessional support as needed to enable the accurate determination of cause and manner of death. Provides scientific consultation assistance to law enforcement agencies, prosecution agencies and the general public. Issues written scientific opinion reports regarding cause and manner of death and frequently will provides expert testimony in legal proceedings. Must be approved by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, and will be a faculty member of the Pathology Department. Fulfills various academic responsibilities, including scientific research and publication, teaching and lectures.Management Scope: Provides direct supervisory authority for approximately six Medical Examiners and two Pathologists; general supervision for daily morgue operations, including medical school residents and students, autopsy technicians, morgue clerks and forensic photographers; and additional supervisory responsibility as assigned. Detailed Description Directs and conducts inquests to determine the cause and manner of death: • Reviews investigation reports provided by Field Agents to establish case jurisdiction and to make initial determination regarding course and scope of inquest;• Directs and closely supervises activities of support staff assisting with inquest; • Performs external examinations and/or autopsies of bodies; • Collects specimens and evidentiary materials and requests/performs appropriate analyses to assist with determination of cause and manner of death and related medico-legal issues; and• Prepares written opinion reports regarding case findings, including the interpretation of special analyses requests, and issues death certificate.Directs and provides general supervision to staff, with emphasis on Office of the Medical Examiner operations; assists with human resources administration functions such as hiring, employee development, disciplinary actions and conflict resolution.Provides medical information and consultation services to families of decedents, the legal community and others regarding case findings; provides expert witness testimony in legal proceedings, as required.Fulfills academic responsibilities associated with the Pathology Department position, including teaching/training medical school students, Pathology residents and fellows; participates in relevant research and publication; and presents forensic pathology lectures to Institute staff, medical students and others.Performs other duties as assigned. Job Requirements Education, Experience and Training:Medical degree from an accredited medical school. Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:Must be Board certified in Anatomic Pathology and Forensic Pathology. Must be approved by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. Must possess current knowledge of forensic pathology; thorough knowledge of standard autopsy room protocols; skilled in the use of autopsy room equipment such as bone saws, knives and needles; ability to direct support staff activities. Ability to develop and present accurate written and verbal medical opinion reports on case findings. Knowledge of department policies and procedures, with ability to perform duties of Director and Chief Medical Examiner in his/her absence, and ability to work cooperatively with law enforcement agencies, prosecution agencies and the general public. Ability to use good safety practices and precautions, including the use of personal protective gear. Must pass an extensive background investigation. Physical/Environmental Requirements:Works in an autopsy room, with routine, potential exposure to biological and/or chemical hazards; routine exposure to odorous specimens and chemicals and graphic visual situations. Prolonged, extensive, or considerable standing/walking; lifts, positions, pushes bodies; lifts supplies, equipment; considerable reaching, stooping and bending; death scene attendance may be required; manual dexterity and visual acuity sufficient to execute standard protocols. Additional Details An extensive pre-employment background investigation will be conducted on all applicants who have been offered a position with Dallas County. The hiring process involves the successful completion of each step. The steps include a Criminal History Review, Traffic Violations Record, Review of Personal History statements and Documents, Physical Examination, and Background Investigation. Dallas County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, National Service Alumni volunteers, and persons with a criminal background are encouraged to apply. | |