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Death Investigation Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Beaver County

Deputy Sheriff I

Beaver, UT

... death investigation and transportation of bodies; delivers death and other emergency messages; serves as backup for officers on possible violent situations. * Reports to accident scenes to render ...

Beaver County

Deputy Sheriff I

Beaver, UT · On-site

... death investigation and transportation of bodies; delivers death and other emergency messages; serves as backup for officers on possible violent situations. * Reports to accident scenes to render ...

Beaver County

Deputy Sheriff I

Beaver, UT · On-site

$28.66/hr

... death investigation and transportation of bodies; delivers death and other emergency messages; serves as backup for officers on possible violent situations. * Reports to accident scenes to render ...

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All JobsDeath Investigation JobsDeath Investigation Jobs in Utah

Death Investigation information

See Utah salary details

$25.9K

$69.7K

$125.2K

How much do death investigation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for death investigation in Utah is $69,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $89,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a death investigator?

Death investigators are professionals who examine deaths that occur under unusual, suspicious, or unexplained circumstances. They work to determine the cause and manner of death by collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with medical examiners, law enforcement, and forensic experts. Their work is crucial in criminal investigations, public health, and legal proceedings. Death investigators may be employed by medical examiner or coroner offices, and their duties can include scene investigation, documentation, and sometimes testifying in court.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a death investigator?

To thrive as a Death Investigator, you need a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by specialized training or certification such as ABMDI. Familiarity with digital evidence management systems, forensic photography, and laboratory analysis tools is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help in accurately assessing scenes and collaborating with law enforcement and medical personnel. These skills ensure thorough, unbiased investigations that support legal processes and provide closure for families.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in death investigation roles?

Professionals in death investigation often encounter challenging and sensitive situations, including exposure to traumatic scenes and the need to communicate with grieving families. Managing emotional resilience while maintaining objectivity is crucial in this field. Additionally, working closely with law enforcement, medical examiners, and other agencies requires strong collaboration and communication skills. The role may also involve irregular hours and responding to cases at any time, making flexibility and adaptability important qualities for success.

What is the difference between Death Investigation vs Forensic Pathology?

AspectDeath InvestigationForensic Pathology
CredentialsTypically requires a law enforcement or medical examiner certification, sometimes a medical degreeRequires a medical degree (MD or DO) and specialized training in pathology
Work EnvironmentCrime scenes, morgues, medical examiner officesHospitals, morgues, medical examiner offices
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, medical examiner offices, coronersMedical examiner offices, hospitals, forensic laboratories
Primary FocusInvestigating causes of death, determining time and manner of deathPerforming autopsies to determine cause and manner of death

While both roles involve death investigations, death investigators focus on scene analysis and cause determination often within law enforcement, whereas forensic pathologists perform autopsies and provide expert medical opinions. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the forensic and medical examiner fields.

How hard is it to become a death investigator?

Becoming a death investigator typically requires a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, along with relevant training and certification. The process involves completing education, gaining experience in law enforcement or forensic roles, and often passing specialized training programs, making it a challenging but structured career path.

What does a death investigation do?

A death investigation involves examining the circumstances of a person's death to determine the cause and manner of death. It typically includes collecting evidence, performing autopsies, and documenting findings, often requiring knowledge of forensic science and legal procedures. Investigators work closely with law enforcement and medical examiners to ensure accurate and thorough investigations.

What are popular job titles related to Death Investigation jobs in Utah?

For Death Investigation jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Death Investigation jobs in Utah look for?

The top searched job categories for Death Investigation jobs in Utah are:

What cities in Utah are hiring for Death Investigation jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Death Investigation job openings:

Death Investigation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Death Investigation job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,741 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Medical Examiner Investigator

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Taylorsville, UT • On-site

$25.57 - $43.44/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Medical Examiner Investigator
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Benefits Eligibility - This position is eligible for a full benefits package.
Salary - $25.57 - $43.44 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - In-Office / On-SiteRecruiter - Ashlee Adams ashleeadams@utah.gov 385-538-4235
Application Deadline - 9/2/2026*
*This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed, should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Key Responsibilities
Do you have investigation experience? The Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) seeks you as a Medicolegal Death Investigator. In this role you will be responsible to provide scene and telephonic response to deaths reported to the OME. The Investigations section is responsible for the investigation of all deaths falling under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Medical Examiner under Utah Code 26B-8-205, including initial scene response as well as coordinating transportation of decedents, processing evidence, identifying decedents, and follow-up on investigations to aid in the determination of cause and manner of death. Due to the nature of this position, compliance to the Utah Department of Health Employee Immunization policy is required. Travel is required.
Job Responsibilities
As a Medicolegal Death Investigator you will:
Handle phone calls reporting deaths, responding to death scenes, conducting investigations which include researching and gathering information, interviewing witnesses, real time database direct entry, preparing investigative reports, handling evidence, moving remains, and determining jurisdiction of deaths reported to the OME.
Assist medical examiners/forensic pathologists with complete documentation of evidence collected and recorded chain of custody, reports, and records gathering and review, and other requests as needed.
Be familiar with laws and regulations regarding death investigation in Utah.
Respond to incoming questions and complaints, provide information as allowed by law, explain policies and procedures, and facilitate resolution of issues as they arise.
Facilitate information exchange between investigators and organ and tissue donation coordinators to allow for timely donation of organs and tissues.
Coordinate information exchanges with law enforcement entities, treating physicians, attorneys and families.
Experience with conducting exhumations and identifying human bones.
Other duties, tasks and responsibilities may be assigned at any time.
Qualifications
Qualifications
Must be able to pass a criminal background check
Has strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Bachelor's degree in forensic science, nursing, a biological science, criminal justice or a related field AND one (1) year of directly related, experience in medical, criminal or death investigation;
OR,
Any combination of education and experience that is equivalent to the above stated requirements.
Preference
Experience as a medicolegal death investigator.
Experience with conducting excavations
Scene investigative experience (CSI, detective, law enforcement officer, etc.)
Certification by the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI).
Strong organizational and documentation skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
About the Role
Location -
4451 South 2700 West
Taylorsville, Utah, 84129
United States
Background Check Required - You must successfully pass a criminal history check.
Drug Test Required - No
Schedule Code - B - Competitive Career Service
Why You Should Join Our TeamIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
  • Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
  • Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
  • Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The AgencyFor more information, Click Here
EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.

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