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Coroner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Deputy Sheriff/Coroner I/II

Merced, CA · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Refers questionable deaths to the Coroner's division. Delivers and executes civil processes such as writs of attachment, possession and execution, subpoenas, summons and complaints. Assists and ...

Deputy Sheriff-Coroner

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$86K - $105K/yr

The Position Hiring Bonus - Police Academy graduates who self-financed their tuition will receive a one-time hiring bonus of $7,000 upon successful completion of the probationary period. Lateral ...

MEDICAL EXAMINER

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$229K - $338K/yr

Coroner Opening Date: 02/03/2026 Closing Date: Continuous ABOUT THE POSITION The Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner is seeking to fill the Medical Examiner/Forensic Pathologist ...

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Coroner information

What are the qualifications to be a coroner?

To become a coroner, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and many jurisdictions prefer or require a background in medicine, law enforcement, or forensic science. Some positions require completing specialized training or certification, and candidates must often pass background checks and have good communication skills for investigative work.

How do coroners get their jobs?

Coroners are typically elected officials or appointed by local government authorities, often requiring candidates to meet specific qualifications such as relevant medical or forensic training. Many coroners have backgrounds as physicians, forensic pathologists, or law enforcement, and must often pass certification or training programs relevant to death investigation. The hiring process varies by jurisdiction but generally involves a combination of election, appointment, and meeting professional standards.

What does a coroner pay?

Coroners' salaries vary by location and experience, but typically range from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Some coroners are elected officials and may receive additional benefits or stipends, while others are employed by government agencies or medical examiner offices. Certification and specialized training can influence earning potential.

How hard is it to get a job as a coroner?

Securing a job as a coroner typically requires relevant education, such as a medical degree or forensic training, along with experience in medical or forensic fields. Competition can be high due to the specialized nature of the role, and candidates often need to pass certification or licensing requirements depending on the jurisdiction.

What Do Coroners Do?

Coroners are in charge of recording the cause, time, and manner of death of citizens in their jurisdiction. It is the coroner’s job to determine if the manner of death was natural or if foul play was involved. If needed, the coroner will request an investigation. Some coroners may be elected or appointed to the role and may have served previously in other crime prevention or government positions. When a coroner investigates or reports a suspicious death, they may refer to a forensic specialist for assistance. Local laws vary by jurisdiction as to what the coroner has the power to do.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Coroner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Coroner, you need a background in medicine, forensic science, or law, often supported by a medical degree, law degree, or relevant certification depending on jurisdiction. Familiarity with forensic pathology tools, death investigation protocols, and legal documentation systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills are key soft skills for interacting with law enforcement, families, and the judicial system. These competencies ensure accurate cause-of-death determinations, proper legal proceedings, and sensitive handling of bereaved families.

What does a coroner do?

A coroner is an official responsible for investigating deaths that are sudden, unexplained, or suspicious. Their main duties include determining the cause and manner of death, overseeing autopsies, and sometimes holding inquests. Coroners work closely with law enforcement, pathologists, and other professionals to establish facts about deaths within their jurisdiction. In some regions, coroners may be elected or appointed and can have medical or legal backgrounds.

What are some common challenges coroners face when working with families of the deceased?

Coroners often encounter emotionally charged situations when interacting with grieving families, as they are responsible for explaining autopsy findings, cause of death, and legal procedures. Balancing compassion with the need to obtain accurate information can be challenging. Additionally, coroners must maintain confidentiality and sensitivity while ensuring that families understand the processes involved, which requires strong communication and interpersonal skills.

What is the difference between Coroner vs Medical Examiner?

AspectCoronerMedical Examiner
CredentialsMay not require medical degree; often electedMust be a licensed physician, often a forensic pathologist
Work EnvironmentTypically in county or local government officesIn hospitals, morgues, or government agencies
Industry UsageCommon in rural or smaller jurisdictionsUsed in larger cities and counties
Role FocusDetermine cause of death, often with limited medical trainingPerform autopsies, determine cause of death, and testify in court

While both Coroners and Medical Examiners determine causes of death, Medical Examiners are licensed physicians with specialized training in forensic pathology, working primarily in larger jurisdictions. Coroners may not require medical degrees and are often elected officials in smaller areas. Their roles overlap in death investigations, but Medical Examiners typically provide more detailed autopsies and expert testimony.

What cities are hiring for Coroner jobs? Cities with the most Coroner job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Coroner jobs? The most popular types of Coroner jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Coroner jobs? The top employers for Coroner jobs are:
What states have the most Coroner jobs? States with the most job openings for Coroner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Coroner job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Deputy Sheriff/Coroner I/II

Deputy Sheriff/Coroner I/II

Merced County

Merced, CA • On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Examples of Duties Please Note: Applications will not be accepted without submission of California Basic POST Certificate or California Basic Academy Graduation Certificate or proof of current enrollment in a Basic P.O.S.T. Academy. Duties may include, depending upon assignment, but are not limited to the following: Patrols assigned areas and answers calls for protection of life and property

Conducts preliminary investigations and interrogates witnesses. Tests for sobriety, performs CPR and First Aid, physically restrains subjects and prisoners. Substantiate findings of fact in court.

Serve warrants, subpoenas and make arrests; serves subpoenas; investigates accidents. Responds to death scenes and secures area, examines body and scene for forensic evidence. Gathers information to assist in determining cause of death.

Coordinates and cooperates with responding personnel and release of body and/or organs. Secures personal belongings and effects of the deceased, notifies next of kin. May assist in the disposition of the deceased due to death by natural causes.

Refers questionable deaths to the Coroner's division. Delivers and executes civil processes such as writs of attachment, possession and execution, subpoenas, summons and complaints. Assists and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies' investigations and arrests.

Lifts latent prints, takes pictures or makes sketches of crime scene and takes plaster at crime scenes. Gather evidence and take statements in connection with suspected criminal activities. Keeps firearms and other equipment in good working condition.

May function as a SWAT Team member or function as an undercover officer for the detection and prevention of the sale of narcotics and the arrest of drug offenders. Performs public relations and community policing activities to include law enforcement education, public safety, and crime prevention. May be assigned to schools, community law enforcement offices, correctional facilities, equestrian law enforcement, canine unit, lake patrol, or other special assignments.

Performs assigned shift responsibilities, maintains confidentiality; follows supervisor's direction and department rules and regulations; may assist with training new staff. Duties as assigned in the Court Security Services Division: Primary duty is to serve as bailiff to the Superior Courts of Merced County. Maintains security and preserve order in courtroom facilities.

Holds, guards and transports prisoners from Detention to Court and return. During court, takes charge of jury, witnesses and other personnel involved in the cases. May make court room arrests.

Provides support to other law enforcement agencies and Deputy Sheriff/Coroners outside of court related duties. Develop a close working relationship with judges and court personnel in order to ensure the efficient operation of the court. Keep records, prepare reports and perform related office work as required.

Protects assigned judge, jury, public and courtroom Prepares detailed reports of all activities; deliver and execute civil processes. Transports persons arrested to jail or court. Minimum Qualifications Experience: Level I None.

Level II Two (2) years of experience in law enforcement work equivalent to Deputy Sheriff/Coroner I. Education: High school graduation or equivalence. Certification: Possession of Certification of Completion from a Basic P.O.S.T Academy and First Aid and CPR certificates

Successful completion of Merced County Sheriff's Department Field Training Program required within one year of appointment. License: Possess a valid California driver's license at time of appointment and maintain. Citizenship: Must be a United States Citizen Note: Applications will be accepted with proof of current enrollment in a Basic P.O.S.T

Academy. Appointments will only be made after successful completion of Basic P.O.S.T. Academy

Essential Functions Respond appropriately to situations; performs in-the-line-of-duty firearm responsibilities. Physically restrain subjects and prisoners; maintain strength, endurance and agility. Enforce California Penal and Vehicle Codes.

Follow orders and directions of senior staff in charge of command. Perform job duties under stressful conditions. Analyze data, complete comprehensive reports, interpret directions, procedures and regulations, and develop appropriate responses.

Communicate effectively with others in person and over the telephone. Maintain confidential information in accordance with legal standards and/or County regulations. Maintain consistent/regular attendance and punctuality.

Effectively represent the County, Sheriff and department with the community. Conduct activities on uneven surfaces under various environmental conditions. Lift and move with help objects weighing over 100 pounds.

Perform timely and required procedures, duties and responsibilities. Operate a personal computer and other office equipment. Establish, implement and achieve goals and objectives.

Frequent use of depth perception, peripheral vision and color perception. Frequently lift, carry, reach, push, pull, twist and manipulate large and small objects. Kneel, bend, twist, squat, balance and crawl.

Frequent use of hand-eye coordination; normal dexterity, frequent holding and grasping. Frequent use of data entry device including repetitive hand and arm motion. Occasionally lift and carry up to 40 pounds.

Regular attendance is an essential function. Knowledge of: The general geography and topography of Merced County. Use and care of small fire arms; First Aid techniques.

California Penal & Vehicle Codes; Laws of arrest and rules of evidence. Laws applicable to the apprehension, retention and treatment of prisoners and juveniles. Principles of identification and fingerprint classification; code of Civil Procedures and Civil Processes.

Ability to: Observe and accurately remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and places. Understand and interpret laws and regulations relating to arrest and rules of evidence, apprehension, retention and treatment of prisoners and juveniles. Understand and accurately interpret the Code of Civil Procedures and Civil Processes.

Secure information from witnesses and suspects. Effectively perform Deputy Sheriff/Coroner duties and responsibilities. Work in any area of law enforcement at an experienced level.

Make independent judgments, adopt quick, and effective and responsible courses of action during emergencies. Write clear, complete and comprehensive reports. Establish and maintain cooperative relationship with those contacted during the course of work.

Meet standards of physical stature, condition, strength, endurance and agility. Demonstrate proficiency in the use and care for firearms. Perform notifications to next of kin of deceased with understanding and empathy.