Medical Examiner Job Description

What is the job description of a Medical Examiner? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Medical Examiner? What does a Medical Examiner do?

Job description of a Medical Examiner

Medical Examiners, also known as Forensic Pathologists, are specialist doctors trained in forensic and anatomical pathology. They use their medical skills to determine the cause of death whether natural, accidental, or intentional, of decedents. Medical Examiners may also be required to testify in legal cases where their skills have been utilized.

This Medical Examiner job description example includes the list of most important Medical Examiner duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Medical Examiner profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Medical Examiner Duties and Responsibilities

Medical Examiner job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Performing autopsies to determine cause of death.
  • Undertaking examinations of specimens, tissues, organs, fluids, and blood to determine abnormalities that may have resulted in death.
  • Investigating sudden and/or unnatural deaths, in conjunction with law enforcement, when needed.
  • Conducting on-site investigations to obtain data and information pertaining to a case, when needed.
  • Providing expert testimony in court regarding autopsies and the findings thereof, when required.
  • Preparing death certificates and determining when decedents may be released.
  • Remaining informed of developments in forensic pathology and attending seminars and courses in forensic medicine, for continuing education.
  • Reviewing police reports and checking medical records of decedents for pertinent information relating to death.
  • Preparing reports of findings to be given to law enforcement, when needed, to aid any on-going investigations.

Medical Examiner Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Medical Examiner job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, physical sciences, or a related field.
  • Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.
  • 4 to 7 years’ internship and residency training, specializing in forensic and anatomical pathology.
  • Relevant certification
  • Valid and active medical license.
  • Exceptional analytical and research skills.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Experience using lab testing equipment.
  • Working knowledge of applicable laws and statutes governing forensic services.

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Medical Examiner starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Medical Examiner job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Medical Examiner may also reference it in preparation for the interview.