Chief Medical Examiner & Forensic Leader

Whatcom County; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 288,000 - 352,000; Full time

Job summary

Whatcom County seeks an experienced Medical Examiner to lead forensic pathology services, determine causes of death, and provide expert testimony in legal cases. The office handles about 20 autopsies per month and operates 24/7.

The Medical Examiner will head a team including Investigators, Autopsy Technicians, an Operations Manager, and temporary staff, collaborating with law enforcement, legal, and public health partners to meet county goals and public safety needs.

Qualifications

• MD or DO and WA license eligibility or current license.
• Board certification in Forensic Pathology.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of Investigators, Autopsy Technicians and staff.
• Oversee death scene investigations, autopsies and toxicology interpretation.
• Provide expert testimony in legal cases and assist in court proceedings.
• Sign death certificates, maintain records and preserve evidence custody.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, legal and public health partners.
• Coordinate with agencies for archeological remains handling and reinternment.

Skills

Leadership

Forensic pathology

Testimony

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

MD/DO degree

Board certification in Forensic Pathology

Job description

Whatcom County seeks an experienced Medical Examiner to lead forensic pathology services, determine causes of death, and provide expert testimony in legal cases. The office handles about 20 autopsies per month and operates 24/7.

The Medical Examiner will head a team including Investigators, Autopsy Technicians, an Operations Manager, and temporary staff, collaborating with law enforcement, legal, and public health partners to meet county goals and public safety needs.