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Forensic Investigator

  • Job
    Full-time
    Entry, Junior & Mid Level
  • Science
    Healthcare
  • Houston

AI generated summary

  • You need a relevant degree, valid Texas driver's license, knowledge of crime scene investigation, good communication skills, and ability to handle physical tasks independently.
  • You will respond to death scenes, document evidence, supervise body transport, notify families, prepare reports, testify in court, and ensure compliance in handling remains and evidence.

Requirements

  • A COPY OF TRANSCRIPTS MAY BE REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF INTERVIEW; AN OFFICIAL CERTIFIED ORIGINAL WILL BE REQUIRED PRIOR TO ANY JOB OFFER. THIS POSITION IS CONDITIONAL UPON PASSING A CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK AND A DRUG SCREENING.
  • Education:
  • Bachelor of Arts/Science degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Anthropology, Biological Sciences, or an equivalent field.
  • Licensure:
  • Valid driver's license is required (Texas within two weeks of employment)
  • Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Knowledge of crime scene investigation, photography, fingerprints and basic human anatomy.
  • Good written and oral communication skills.
  • Effective organizational and time management skills are all essential to satisfactory job performance.
  • Basic computer skills including computer systems using Microsoft Office and standard applications.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, prioritizing and handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Natural ambulation and manual dexterity are required due to the essential physical demands of manipulating bodies as part of the investigation and in loading/unloading bodies, including the ability to climb stairs, industrial and commercial structures; ability to board ships; and the ability to spend whatever time necessary on one's feet to investigate and/or recover human remains.

Responsibilities

  • Responds to death scenes to document, recover and identify human remains, and collect and preserve physical and biological evidence.
  • While on scene, responsible for directing decedent transport staff in helping with manipulation of the decedent, property collection, and evidence collection at scenes.
  • Locates and notifies family of death, responds to inquiries from families and law enforcement agencies, and provides for complete transition of information from shift to shift and team to team.
  • Prepares and submits to all designated parties’ reports covering operations and jurisdictions.
  • Supervises the admission and release of bodies to ensure procedural compliance, protects the integrity of specimens and evidence, and ensures proper identification and storage.
  • This includes supervision of decedent transport staff both at scenes and in the office.
  • Coordination with Forensic Transporters and Forensic Transporter II's for scene response and decedent recovery from hospitals/scenes.
  • Testifies in court proceedings regarding investigation, observations, and documentation procedures at the scene.
  • Notifies the Supervisor, Director of Forensic Investigations, and/or Assistant Deputy Chief Medical Examiner of special problems or interests.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the Supervisor, Director of Forensic Investigations and/or Assistant Deputy Chief Medical Examiner.
  • Other duties as assigned.

FAQs

What is the primary mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences?

The primary mission is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner with uncompromised integrity.

What are the main responsibilities of a Forensic Investigator?

The main responsibilities include responding to death scenes, documenting and recovering human remains, collecting and preserving evidence, notifying families of deaths, preparing reports, supervising the admission and release of bodies, and testifying in court.

What type of education is required for the Forensic Investigator position?

A Bachelor of Arts/Science degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Anthropology, Biological Sciences, or an equivalent field is required.

Is a valid driver's license necessary?

Yes, a valid driver's license is required, and candidates must obtain a Texas driver's license within two weeks of employment.

What skills are essential for satisfactory job performance in this role?

Essential skills include knowledge of crime scene investigation, good written and oral communication, effective organizational and time management skills, basic computer skills, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Is prior experience in a medical examiner's office preferred?

Yes, previous employment or internships in a medical examiner's office and experience with exposure to human remains are preferred.

Are there any certifications that can enhance a candidate's application?

Yes, current registry (diplomate) level certification by the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) is preferred.

What working conditions should candidates expect in this role?

Candidates can expect possible exposure to unusual elements, including extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, unpleasant odors, loud noises, and potential contact with blood and blood-borne pathogens.

Are drug screening and criminal background checks part of the hiring process?

Yes, employment is contingent on passing a criminal background check and a drug screening.

How should applicants document their qualifications?

Applicants must document their qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills directly on their job application; a resume can be attached but "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

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Mission & Purpose

Harris County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas within the Houston–Sugar Land–Baytown metropolitan area. As of 2000 U.S. Census, the county had a population of 3,400,578 (though a 2007 estimate placed the population at 4,011,475), making it the most populous county in Texas and the third most populous county in the United States. Its county seat is Houston.