Forensic Pathologist – State Medical Examiner

State of Iowa; Ankeny (IA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage

Paid Time Off (vacation, sick leave, 9

Retirement Plans (IPERS)

Flexible Spending Accounts

Life Insurance & Long‑term Disability

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Discount Programs

Job summary

State of Iowa is seeking an Associate State Medical Examiner to provide expert forensic pathology services across Iowa’s 99 counties. You will determine cause and manner of death, document injuries, and advance the integrity of death investigations.

Responsibilities include performing postmortem exams, maintaining records, preparing reports, and testifying in court. A medical degree and Iowa licensure are required, with state travel and courtroom duties involved.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited school of medicine is required.
• Internship completed and licensure as a physician by the State of Iowa.

Responsibilities

• Perform postmortem examinations to document injuries, determine disease processes, establish cause and manner of death and collect evidence.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of all medicolegal death investigations under IOSME jurisdiction.
• Prepare timely, thorough autopsy reports using ancillary testing, consultations, and detailed medicolegal review.
• Provide expert testimony in court and depositions regarding autopsy findings and investigative conclusions.
• Communicate autopsy results sensitively and clearly to legal next of kin, investigating agencies and support staff.
• Complete and certify death certificates and cremation permits.
• Promptly communicate and advise county medical examiners and law enforcement agencies regarding scene procedures, autopsy requirements, and death certificate wording.

Education

Medical Doctor (M.D.) degree

Job description

State of Iowa is seeking an Associate State Medical Examiner to provide expert forensic pathology services across Iowa’s 99 counties. You will determine cause and manner of death, document injuries, and advance the integrity of death investigations.

Responsibilities include performing postmortem exams, maintaining records, preparing reports, and testifying in court. A medical degree and Iowa licensure are required, with state travel and courtroom duties involved.