Purpose of Job
The purpose of the Medicolegal Death Investigator is to conduct Medicolegal death investigations into deaths that are reportable (per Tennessee Code
Annotated 38-7-108 or other applicable law) to the Regional Forensic Center.
Essential Functions
Essential functions to be performed by the position include the following:
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Determine medical examiner jurisdiction by conducting Medicolegal death investigation gathering facts, evidence, interviews, and analyzing photographs either by phone or onsite
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Pronounce deaths under the authority of the Medical Examiner and determine case jurisdiction
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Communicate, coordinate, and act as an official representative of the Medical Examiner and Regional Forensic Center to family members, employers, witnesses, and personnel from law enforcement, hospitals, funeral homes, medical professionals, and other fields; assist and educate the legal next-of-kin with procedures for release of the decedent’s body/remains
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Respond, as appropriate, to the death scene or body location; examine and document by means of notes, diagrams, sketches, and photography the appearance and condition of the locale, body, and other pertinent objects on or near, or otherwise associated with the death scene and body to include identification factors related to time, place, cause, and
Essential Functions (Cont.) manner of injury/death while working in conjunction with law enforcement and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel
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Coordinate the release and removal of the body from the scene, hospital, or other location with responding or appropriate law enforcement agencies, hospitals, EMS, and other agencies
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Assure the preservation and storage of evidentiary items and materials, available records, the body and associated clothing, valuables, or other personal effects, thus maintaining the forensic chain-of-custody; confiscate, document, count, secure, and destroy all drugs found with the decedent; assure proper release, destruction, or management of evidentiary items; assure maintenance and cleanliness of the evidence room
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Assist the Medical Examiner with preliminary external examination of the body, as appropriate, with reference to identification of findings and factors related to time, place, manner, and cause of injury, disease, or death, and with reference to routine physical characteristic documentation and identity; assist with identification of decedent by medical and non-medical means
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Obtain pertinent past and present medical, social, family, and other history from persons and sources associated with the decedent, including family, attorneys, family, and physicians
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Assure proper, complete, and correct information is entered and maintained in the medical examiner electronic case management system or other appropriate system
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Assure reports and investigative process are conducted in accordance with applicable standards such as the Tennessee Code Annotated, American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators, Regional Forensic Center Policies and Procedures, and other applicable guidelines
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Assure proper and timely completion of cremation permits
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Testifying in court proceedings; Prepare thorough and accurate reports documenting investigative findings, interpretations, and conclusions; Provide expert testimony in legal proceedings, including depositions, hearings, and trials, explaining methodologies and conclusions to judges and juries; Respond to cross-examination and challenges to the credibility or validity of investigative methods or findings.
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Stay current with developments in forensic science, investigative techniques, and legal precedents through participation in training programs, workshops, and conferences; Pursue opportunities for professional development and certification to enhance knowledge and skills relevant to the role; Share knowledge and insights with colleagues through presentations, training sessions, and collaborative projects.
Additional Job Functions
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Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours
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Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local regional or central office supervisors as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayor’s Office
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Perform other duties as required
Minimum Training & Qualifications
Minimum training and qualifications of the position include the following:
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Bachelor’s degree in forensic sciences, Biological Sciences, or related field
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Per Tennessee Code Annotated 38-7-104, the Medicolegal Death Investigator must be a licensed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), paramedic, registered nurse, physician’s assistant, or person registered by a diplomat of the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators
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After twelve (12) months as an investigator, the incumbent must be licensed as a Diplomat with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (D-AMBDI designation)
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An applicant offered employment as a Medicolegal Death Investigator must pass a background check and a drug test prior to executing any of the duties of the position
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A minimum of two (2) years’ related experience is required
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An individual must hold a current Tennessee driver’s license at hire and post-hire
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A candidate with equivalent education and/or experience may be considered for employment
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Willingness to respond to on-call duty and work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required
Specialized Knowledge
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of medicolegal death investigation skills, techniques, principles, and practices
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of basic principles of forensic pathology, including postmortem changes, mechanisms of injury, and patterns of trauma.
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of causes and manners of death and their manifestations regarding body, scene, and history
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology related to anatomy, physiology, and pathology, including terms used to describe anatomical structures, bodily functions, and pathological conditions
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Understanding of human anatomy and physiology, including the structure and function of major organ systems and their relevance to the determination of cause and manner of death.
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Ability to interpret medical records, autopsy reports, and other clinical documents to extract relevant information related to the investigation.
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Ability to recognize and document signs of natural disease processes, including cardiovascular events, respiratory disorders, and infectious diseases.
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge relevant laws, regulations, and legal precedents governing the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases, including rules of evidence and rules of criminal procedure.
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Understanding of the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in the criminal justice system, including law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges.
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Ability to communicate effectively with legal professionals and to navigate the legal process as a witness or expert consultant.
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of TCA as it relates to medicolegal death investigation, evidence collection, crime scene investigation, NOK determination, cremation permits, etc.
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Knowledge of forensic laboratory techniques for analyzing biological samples, including blood, tissue, and bodily fluids.
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Familiarity with chain of custody protocols and procedures for maintaining the integrity and admissibility of evidence in legal proceedings.
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of safety procedures for handling biological materials and personal protective equipment
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Knowledge of protocols for handling and processing human remains, including proper techniques for body recovery, transportation, and storage.
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of law enforcement and EMS procedures
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Understanding of legal and ethical considerations governing the conduct of medicolegal investigations, including issues related to consent, confidentiality, and privacy.
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Ability to handle biohazards and contaminated decedent’s, evidence, and scenes
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Ability to use a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera
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Ability to use the CSMD, Pharmaceutical reference database, and disease classification database
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Strong analytical skills and the ability to evaluate evidence, identify patterns, and draw logical conclusions based on available information.
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Capacity to think critically and creatively to resolve complex investigative challenges and to adapt to evolving circumstances or new information.
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Aptitude for assessing risk factors, considering alternative hypotheses, and making evidence-based decisions in a dynamic and unpredictable environment
Competencies
The Medicolegal Death Investigator must possess the following competencies:
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Proficient in use of PCs, tablets, smartphones, cameras, and other electronic devices
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Ability to understand basic mathematics
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Ability to work independently or as part of a team and interact appropriately with others
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Ability to apply procedures using good judgement
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Excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail
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Demonstrated ability to conduct interviews with a high level of communication
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Ability to interact appropriately with diverse individuals and groups during extreme situations
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Ability to maintain an effective working relationship with multiple groups during extreme situations
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Ability to demonstrate knowledge of safety procedures and personal protective equipment
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Ability the use of databases, web applications, and other tools to assist in the Medicolegal death investigation process
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Ability to maintain confidentiality and abide by reporting laws and regulations
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Ability to use a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera
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Proficient in Microsoft Office suite of products
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Ability to use specialized tools, machines, and equipment including an electronic pill counter; temperature, humidity, and elevation gauge; DSLR camera; personal protective equipment; and rulers and tape measures
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Ability to safely use a vehicle to visit scenes and other locales related to investigations
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Must be able to discern colors
The Medicolegal Death Investigator will work a 40-hour work week. They are required to work rotating swing shifts and weekends and be capable of working flexible hours during the holidays. Call is required and the incumbent must report immediately for on-call duty. Some work outside of regularly scheduled work time is anticipated.
Physical Requirements
Mobility and Physical Stamina:
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Ability to respond to death scenes promptly and travel to various locations, including residences, hospitals, crime scenes, and outdoor environments.
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Proficiency in navigating diverse terrain and environments, including stairs, uneven surfaces, and confined spaces, while carrying equipment and supplies
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Stamina to withstand prolonged periods of standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, and bending during scene investigations and evidence collection activities.
Strength and Dexterity:
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Sufficient strength and manual dexterity to manipulate equipment and tools used in forensic investigations, including cameras, measuring devices, evidence collection kits, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
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Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver heavy objects, such as body bags, medical equipment, and evidence containers, with assistance as needed to ensure safety and proper handling.
Visual and Auditory Acuity:
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Sharp visual acuity and depth perception to observe and document scene details, evidence, and physical findings accurately, including small or subtle items or markings.
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Acute auditory perception to listen effectively during interviews, conversations, and verbal communications in noisy or chaotic environments, ensuring clear understanding and effective communication.
Physical Endurance & Resilience
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Resilience to cope with exposure to distressing or traumatic situations, including scenes of violence, injury, or death, while maintaining composure, professionalism, and emotional stability.
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Capacity to adapt to unpredictable and challenging conditions, such as adverse weather, hazardous materials, and environmental hazards, while ensuring personal safety and the safety of others.
Health and Wellness:
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Overall good health and fitness level to meet the physical demands of the job and to withstand the rigors of fieldwork, including extended hours, irregular schedules, and on-call duty requirements.
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Compliance with immunization requirements and adherence to infection control protocols to minimize the risk of exposure to communicable diseases, biological hazards, and environmental contaminants.
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Safety and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
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Knowledge of and adherence to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing to minimize exposure to biohazards, chemical hazards, and physical hazards.
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Competence in the proper use, care, and maintenance of PPE and other safety equipment to ensure effectiveness and reliability in hazardous or potentially dangerous situations
Occupational Hazards
Potential hazards of the position include the following:
Biological Hazards:
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Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, bodily fluids, and infectious agents present at death scenes, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
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Risk of contamination or infection from handling human remains, biological samples, and other materials potentially carrying pathogens or communicable diseases.
Chemical Hazards:
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Exposure to hazardous chemicals, toxins, and environmental pollutants present at death scenes, including cleaning agents, pesticides, and industrial chemicals.
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Risk of inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact with toxic substances, irritants, or allergens that may cause respiratory, skin, or mucous membrane irritation, allergic reactions, or other adverse health effects.
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Risk of contamination when counting medications
Physical Hazards:
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Risk of injury from sharp objects, syringes, blunt force trauma, and other physical hazards present at death scenes, including broken glass, sharp metal objects, and protruding surfaces.
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Potential for slips, trips, and falls on uneven or slippery surfaces, debris, or cluttered environments, leading to musculoskeletal injuries, bruises, or lacerations.
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Risk of injury from examining & handling decedents weighing up to 600 pounds, including handling decedents on-scene in various terrains, condemned houses, hoarder houses, hospitals, and other sites at all times of day in various weather conditions.
Psychological Hazards:
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Exposure to traumatic or distressing situations, including scenes of violence, injury, or death, which may lead to psychological stress, emotional trauma, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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Risk of vicarious trauma or compassion fatigue from repeated exposure to human suffering, grief, and loss, affecting mental health and well-being over time.
Environmental Hazards:
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Exposure to extreme temperatures, weather conditions, and environmental factors at outdoor death scenes, including heat, cold, humidity, wind, and precipitation.
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Risk of exposure to natural disasters, hazardous terrain, wildlife, and other environmental hazards that may pose physical or safety risks to investigators.
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Risk of injury when interacting with agitated bystanders during emotional times
Occupational Safety Risks:
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Risk of workplace accidents, injuries, or fatalities resulting from vehicle collisions, falls, equipment malfunctions, or other occupational hazards associated with fieldwork and travel.
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Potential for on-the-job violence, aggression, or confrontation from individuals at death scenes, including family members, witnesses, bystanders, or suspects, requiring effective de-escalation and conflict resolution skills.
Workplace Ergonomics:
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Risk of musculoskeletal injuries, strains, and sprains from repetitive movements, awkward postures, and improper lifting techniques during evidence collection, documentation, and scene processing.
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Importance of maintaining ergonomic work practices, including proper body mechanics, posture, and workstation setup to reduce the risk of work-related injuries and promote long-term physical health and wellbeing.
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Risk of injury from falls or exertion while carrying a backpack, camera and equipment, and other tools to scenes weighing approximately thirty (30) pounds
Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : MEDICAL EXAMINER
Posting Start : 07/01/2026
Posting End : 07/15/2026
MINIMUM HOURLY RATE: $26.58
