Deputy Coroner

About the Role

The City of Indianapolis is seeking a Deputy Coroner to provide essential crime scene and investigation services for intentional and non-intentional deaths across Marion County. This role involves assisting in the development and implementation of crime scene protocols, coordinating with various law enforcement agencies, and gathering preliminary data from death investigations. The Deputy Coroner ensures all work adheres to scientific, legal, and accreditation standards, exercising independent judgment with minimal supervision. Errors in judgment could lead to significant legal liability for the city and county. The position reports to the Sr. Deputy Coroner.

The Marion County Coroner’s agency is dedicated to investigating and determining the cause and manner of death, especially in unusual circumstances. The agency supports families, advocates for the deceased, and provides crucial information to police and courts. We foster a productive, collaborative, and compliant work environment to serve the citizens of Indianapolis and Marion County effectively.

Position Responsibilities

• Conduct forensic support, including identification, preservation, and collection of evidence at death investigation crime scenes.
• Perform various death investigation activities for homicides and suicides, such as DNA collection, fingerprinting, and other related procedures.
• Implement and ensure adherence to appropriate quality assurance and quality control methodologies for death investigations, following National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) guidelines.
• Review statistical data and ensure compliance with relevant scientific, legal, and government regulations.
• Act as a liaison between the Marion County Coroner's Office (MCCO) and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
• Determine whether a new case requires a scene consultation or a phone consultation.
• Provide expert testimony in legal proceedings.
• Code COVID-19 deaths for full autopsy and refer cases to the hospital.
• Identify and notify next of kin, coordinating with chaplains if necessary, and using telephonic notification as a last resort.
• Manage cases from initiation to completion.
• Document case details in the CRM database and monitor case notes for updates.
• Follow up with physicians to ensure death certificates are signed.
• Process incoming mail for autopsy reports and record the manner and cause of death.
• Review toxicology reports and collect specimens for external analysis.
• Collect personal property from the Pathology department and contact next of kin.
• Inventory all collected property.
• Collect only pill medications.
• Conduct research using social media, True People Search, CLEAR database, and Pour House resources to identify unclaimed decedents, particularly those experiencing homelessness.
• Enter all demographic information into the database to initiate a case file.
• Compile and organize case files with photos, medical records, police reports, EMS reports, fingerprints, and other relevant documents.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all case information.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

A Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Forensic Science, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience in crime scene or death investigations. Candidates must be eligible to obtain an Indiana State Coroner Medicolegal Training certificate within one year of employment and complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years thereafter. A valid driver’s license is mandatory. Essential qualities include emotional intelligence, empathy, a strong understanding of death investigation scenes and governing laws, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations. The role demands the capacity to manage multiple projects concurrently, excellent oral and written communication skills, strong reasoning and analytical abilities, and meticulous attention to detail. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is also required.

Preferred Qualifications

A Master’s Degree in Biology, Forensic Science, or a related field, combined with at least three years of relevant experience in crime scene or death investigations, is preferred. All other requirements, including obtaining the Indiana State Coroner Medicolegal Training certificate, maintaining a valid driver’s license, and possessing strong interpersonal and analytical skills, remain the same. Bilingual proficiency is a plus.

Working Conditions

The work environment is primarily an office setting, with occasional exposure to moderate noise and environmental elements when conducting field investigations.

Physical Conditions

• The role involves sitting at a desk, standing, and walking at various scenes.
• The ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 200 pounds (human body weight) is required.
• Tasks may include extended periods of computer work at a workstation.
• The position requires the ability to perceive sounds, see visual cues, and communicate orally.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The City of Indianapolis and Marion County is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status. We celebrate diverse perspectives and experiences among our staff and the community we serve.