Autopsy Technician II

Annual Salary Range

• Minimum $32,240
• Maximum $48,204

About the Position

This position is under the immediate supervision of the Autopsy Technician Supervisor. Performs work of moderate difficulty in assisting the Medical Examiner/forensic pathologists in performing autopsies and other post mortem evaluations at the St. Louis City Medical Examiner Morgue; performs related work as required or directed.

The Autopsy Technician will be responsible for a wide variety of duties, including but not limited to: assisting pathologists with autopsies and external examinations, preparing accurate records of processing, photographing bodies and evidence, maintaining chain of custody of clothing, property and evidence; maintaining morgue areas, supplies and equipment; release of bodies to funeral homes; assisting with the collection and labeling of evidentiary materials including toxicology and other laboratory samples; maintains instruments, formalin and other solutions, containers, equipment and supplies for use during autopsies; sets up supplies/equipment for use during autopsies, weighs/measures body; participates in maintaining proper cleanliness of the autopsy and morgue areas including instruments, equipment, and linens; cleans the autopsy room and morgue areas including mopping, sinks, eyewash station, emptying trash and appropriate disposal of biohazardous waste. Will be required to periodically pick up and deliver specimens, medical records, and other documents as needed or required. This position also performs other Morgue Attendant and clerical duties as required including filing/retrieving specimen slides, FTA cards, and case files.

Minimum Requirements

Education and Experience

Autopsy Technicians will have an Associate/Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree with major coursework in biology, anatomy, forensics, funeral sciences or related studies. May also have five years prior work experience in funeral service and or any equivalent combination of related education, or training that enable meeting the key requirements.

Good knowledge of anatomy as applied to conducting autopsies. Good knowledge of the regulation, procedures, and practices concerning deaths under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner. Good knowledge of the methods, techniques, equipment, and procedures used in autopsies and the preparation of solutions and preservation of tissue specimens.

Working skill in the use of the Stryker Autopsy Saw (or equivalent); working skill in taking muscle, skin, bone, and tissue specimens for later use; working skill in eviscerating the body; working skill in preparing solutions; some knowledge of the embalming process.

Licensing and Certification

Must be a Missouri resident. Must possess a valid Missouri Class F Driver license at time of appointment. Funeral service background is preferred, but not required.

Background Investigation

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation.

St. Louis City is a drug and alcohol-free workplace. A pre-employment drug screen is required for all positions. Employment is contingent on successfully passing all appropriate background checks and drug screen. Incumbents are subject to random drug screen and alcohol tests as a condition of their employment.

Responsibilities

This position requires he/she physically perform the essential functions of the job including the ability to lift and move decedents of various sizes and conditions; handle the psychological effects of death; maintain the confidentiality and integrity of information; adhere to stringent sanitation and biohazard measures; and communicate effectively orally and in writing. Strong attention to detail, telephone and computer skills are a necessity. He/she will use office computers for work, clocking in/out for duty, or other work-related functions.

The Autopsy Technician must work as a team player and pick up additional tasks as needed in this busy urban Medical Examiner’s Office. He/she must maintain good communication with all members of the office. He/she will be expected to attend training as directed by the Chief Medical Examiner and Executive Director of Operations.

To Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter to Tara Rick at truka-rickt@stlouis-mo.gov.