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County Morgue Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Passaic County, and one of the nation's "100 Best Places to Work in Health Care". Job Overview ... Assists with placement of bodies and/or remains in morgue, and release of same to authorized ...

DEPUTY CORONER I

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$60K - $73K/yr

Fresno County is working together for a quality of life for all. Our mission is to provide ... One (1) year full-time, paid work experiences as a Pathology Assistant or Morgue Attendant ...

ADVANCED EMT

Orangeburg, SC ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... morgue personnel, pathologists, Poison Control Center personnel, etc., and the general public ... Orangeburg County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Orangeburg County to provide ...

Showing results 41-60

County Morgue information

See salary details

$31K

$90.9K

$157K

How much do county morgue jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for county morgue in the United States is $90,889.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a county morgue?

A county morgue is a facility operated by local government where deceased individuals are brought for examination, identification, and autopsy when the cause of death is unknown, suspicious, or requires legal investigation. Medical examiners or coroners work in county morgues to determine the cause and manner of death, especially in cases involving accidents, homicides, or unattended deaths. The morgue plays a crucial role in supporting law enforcement and public health by providing forensic analysis and documentation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county morgue technician?

To thrive as a County Morgue Technician, you need knowledge of forensic science, anatomy, and mortuary practices, typically supported by an associate degree in mortuary science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, autopsy instruments, and case management software is essential. Attention to detail, emotional resilience, and strong communication skills help professionals handle sensitive situations and interact with law enforcement or grieving families. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate post-mortem examinations, maintaining evidence integrity, and upholding professionalism in a challenging environment.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a county morgue, and how can new employees best prepare for them?

Working in a county morgue often involves exposure to emotionally challenging situations, including handling deceased individuals in various conditions and interacting with grieving families. New employees may also encounter irregular hours, as cases can arrive at any time, requiring flexibility and resilience. To prepare, it is helpful to develop strong coping strategies, seek support from experienced colleagues, and familiarize oneself with safety protocols and proper handling procedures. Participating in training programs and maintaining open communication with the team can also ease the transition into this unique environment.

What is the difference between County Morgue vs Medical Examiner?

AspectCounty MorgueMedical Examiner
CredentialsNone required, often forensic or mortuary trainingMedical degree (MD), forensic pathology certification
Work EnvironmentMortuary or morgue facilities, handling deceased bodiesMedical offices, crime labs, autopsy suites
Employer & IndustryCounty government, mortuary servicesCounty or state government, forensic pathology
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for death investigations and mortuary dutiesFocuses on cause of death, autopsies, legal cases

The main difference is that County Morgue workers typically handle the storage and preparation of deceased bodies, often with mortuary training, while Medical Examiners are licensed physicians who determine causes of death through autopsies and forensic analysis. Both roles are essential in death investigations but differ in qualifications and responsibilities.

Can I work at a county morgue with no experience?

County morgue positions often require some training or certification, such as a death investigation or morgue assistant program, but entry-level roles may be available to those without prior experience. Candidates typically need to demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to handle sensitive situations; on-the-job training is common. Having a background in healthcare, criminal justice, or related fields can be beneficial but is not always mandatory for entry-level roles.

What qualifications do you need to work at the county morgue?

To work at a county morgue, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require post-secondary education in forensic science, pathology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, ability to handle sensitive situations, and familiarity with medical or forensic tools; certifications such as a medical examiner or mortuary science license may also be required depending on the position.

What cities are hiring for County Morgue jobs?

Cities with the most County Morgue job openings:

What states have the most County Morgue jobs?

States with the most job openings for County Morgue jobs include:

Infographic showing various County Morgue job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,889 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Deputy Investigator (Coroner's Department)

Berks County

Reading, PA โ€ข On-site

$24.16/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description


Starting Hourly Rate: $24.16
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Deputy Investigator is responsible for conducting medicolegal investigations into deaths that fall under the jurisdiction of the Coroner. These investigations include sudden, unexpected, violent, suspicious, or unattended deaths. The investigator collects and evaluates information from death scenes, gathers relevant medical and social history, coordinates with law enforcement and forensic experts, and prepares detailed reports to assist in determining cause and manner of death.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
Essential Functions:
The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to:
  • Receive calls for service from the Berks County Communications Center, outside agency calls, or supervisors.
  • Determine jurisdiction and whether further examination and/or an autopsy is warranted.
  • Respond to death scenes in a timely manner to conduct thorough and unbiased investigations.
  • Examine decedents at scenes and document findings through photography, sketches, and written notes. A foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology to accurately assess findings is required.
  • Make determinations of suspicious/non-suspicious deaths and time of death using body conditions such as rigor mortis, liver mortis, algor mortis, and stages of body decomposition.
  • Photograph the Death Scene and Decedent
  • Collect evidence and secure personal property in accordance with legal and departmental procedures.
  • Interview witnesses, family members, and first responders to gather relevant historical and circumstantial information.
  • Responsible for the safe and respectful transport of decedents from the scene to the morgue or designated facility when further examination or testing is required. Duties include lifting, carrying, and handling remains in accordance with established protocols and safety procedures.
  • Coordinate with forensic pathologists, toxicologists, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and funeral homes.
  • Required to assist with forensic autopsies and other medicolegal examinations, performing duties such as evidence collection, documentation, and support tasks as needed.
  • Prepare detailed and accurately written reports, including investigative summaries and official documentation.
  • Maintain chain of custody and ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal laws.
  • Make a positive identification of decedent, determine next of kin and make death notification, either in-person or by telephone.
  • Assist funeral home representatives with decedent removals., when necessary.
  • Must be able to obtain body fluids using proper phlebotomy techniques and preserve them for toxicological testing. Specimens may include blood, urine, vitreous humor, and bile. Must maintain strict chain of custody for all samples and prepare and package them for transport and analysis.
  • Must be able to safely perform essential job functions while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE), such as Tyvek suits, respirators, boot covers, aprons, hard hat, etc. in compliance with bloodborne pathogen safety protocols.
  • Process, investigate, and issue cremation authorization requests and other disposition authorizations in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and office procedures.
  • Perform a daily vehicle and equipment inspection checklist.
  • Must be able to successfully complete the office training program.
  • Participate in training, peer reviews, and professional development activities.
  • Must be available for on-call coverage for all shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed. Must be able to work mandatory overtime and provide shift coverage to ensure adequate staffing. May be required to report early or remain beyond scheduled hours during high-demand periods, including providing assistance both in the office and at death scenes.
  • Deputy Investigators, whether on duty or off duty, are required to respond to any major emergency situation or mass disaster event which may occur in Berks County or any other county that is listed in our Mutual Aid Agreement, at the discretion of the Coroner or supervisor.
  • Testify at a deposition hearing or in court when subpoenaed or requested to do so.
  • Able to move, lift, and carry a human body of varying weights.
  • Able to drive a vehicle in all types of weather conditions.
  • High level of attention to detail, integrity, and ability to work independently in high-stress environments.
  • Able to communicate effectively and respectfully with people during difficult times, showing compassion and empathy in sensitive situations
  • Proficient in operating computers, cellular phones, cameras, and other electronic devices essential for conducting and completing investigations
  • Basic knowledge of reading, writing, grammar, and arithmetic.
  • Handle death investigations in a confidential and respectful manner.
  • All other duties and assignments as deemed necessary by the Coroner or supervisors.

MINIMUMEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or G.E.D. certification from a recognized issuing agency.
  • Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.
  • Preferred: 1 or more years of prior experience in medicolegal investigations, a background in law enforcement, fire service, nursing, emergency medical service, mortuary science, death-related fields, or a recent college graduate.
  • Full-time employees are required to attend a 40-hour Coroner's Basic Education Course that is presented by the Pennsylvania State Coroner's Association and Pennsylvania State Coroners' Education Board (PSCEB). Successful completion of the class and a passing grade on the final test are required for continued employment.
  • Must maintain annual continuing education requirements as determined by the PSCEB.
  • Full-time employees must be able to obtain certification through the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) within 18 months of hire and maintain that certification throughout your length of employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Certification or eligibility for certification by the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI).
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Nursing, Mortuary Science, or a related field.
  • Prior experience working in a Medical Examiner or Coroner's office.
  • Knowledge of forensic pathology and medico-legal terminology.
  • Familiarity with evidence handling, death scene protocols, and investigative techniques.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to communicate well with people, be compassionate, and caring.
  • Basic knowledge in the related fields of law enforcement, fire investigation,
  • and emergency medical or be willing to become familiar with those fields.
  • Basic knowledge in reading, writing, and arithmetic.
  • Ability to handle stress.
  • Physical presence in the office is required.
  • Able to move, lift, and carry a human body of varying weights.
  • Able to drive a vehicle in all types of weather conditions.
  • High level of attention to detail, integrity, and ability to work independently in high-stress environments.
  • Able to communicate effectively and respectfully with people during difficult times, showing compassion and empathy in sensitive situations
  • Proficient in operating computers, cellular phones, cameras, and other electronic devices essential for conducting and completing investigations
  • Able to work well with coworkers and supervisors.
  • Basic knowledge of reading, writing, grammar, and arithmetic.
  • Able to be on time and ready to work at the start of your assigned time.
  • Handle death investigations in a confidential and respectful manner.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
This position requires the ability to lift and move human bodies and other heavy objects, as well as frequent bending, kneeling, stooping, crawling, walking, and exposure to various odors. May be required to traverse steep grades and uneven or rocky terrain, climb ladders, and enter waterways. Must be able to wear and work in required protective equipment.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The position involves exposure to postmortem examinations, including attendance at autopsies and the handling of needles, syringes, and the collection of biological samples such as blood, vitreous humor, bile, and urine. Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, often under challenging conditions such as extreme heat, cold, rain, confined space, or elevated precarious places. The position also includes exposure to bodily fluids, strong odors, airborne particles, and potentially hazardous chemicals. The ability to tolerate the sights and smells associated with bodies in various stages of decomposition is essential.
This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.
About Us
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
About Us:
Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.
About the Team
Mission Statement:
It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.