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Medical Death Investigator Jobs in Rochester, MN

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$29.8K

$68.5K

$111.3K

How much do medical death investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical death investigator in Rochester, MN is $68,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,800.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical death investigator?

A Medical Death Investigator is a professional who examines deaths that occur under unusual, suspicious, or unexplained circumstances. They work closely with medical examiners, coroners, law enforcement, and forensic specialists to gather information, document evidence, and help determine the cause and manner of death. Their responsibilities often include visiting death scenes, interviewing witnesses, collecting medical histories, and preparing detailed reports. Medical Death Investigators play a critical role in the medicolegal investigation process and help ensure that deaths are thoroughly and accurately investigated.

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

To thrive as a Medical Death Investigator, you need a background in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with case management software, digital photography, and evidence-collection tools is essential, along with certifications such as the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI). Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurately documenting findings and collaborating with law enforcement and families. These competencies ensure thorough, unbiased investigations and help provide closure and justice in sensitive cases.

What are some common challenges faced by medical death investigators in the field?

Medical Death Investigators often encounter emotionally challenging situations, as they must examine scenes involving sudden or unexpected deaths. Balancing empathy for families with the need for objectivity is crucial. They frequently collaborate with law enforcement, forensic pathologists, and other specialists, which requires strong communication and teamwork skills. Additionally, irregular hours and on-call shifts are typical, so flexibility and resilience are important qualities for success in this role.

How hard is it to become a medical death investigator?

Becoming a medical death investigator typically requires a background in forensic science, pathology, or a related field, along with relevant certifications or training. The process involves completing a bachelor's degree, gaining experience in forensic or medical fields, and often obtaining state licensure or certification, making it a specialized and competitive career path.

How to become a medical death investigator?

To become a medical death investigator, typically one needs a background in forensic science, pathology, or a related medical field, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Additional training in death scene investigation and certification from relevant agencies can enhance qualifications; experience in law enforcement or medical examiner offices is also valuable. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and knowledge of legal procedures are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Medical Death Investigator jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Medical Death Investigator jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Medical Death Investigator jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Medical Death Investigator jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Medical Death Investigator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Medical Death Investigator job openings:

Infographic showing various Medical Death Investigator job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,460 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Medicolegal Death Investigator - Winona County

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 699 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Conducts death investigations on an on-call basis for specified geographic area under the jurisdiction of the county Medical Examiner (ME). Responds quickly to potentially traumatic and/or disturbing death scenes and conducts examination of decedent, confirming death, and securing decedent and property on their person. Coordinates field data collection, preserves evidence at scene, photographs scene, acquires and compiles pertinent medical history, performs data entry, and generates reports. Writes complete, accurate and comprehensive statement of investigations. Provides timely communication of pertinent case information to Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner's Office (SMRMEO) staff, Office of Decedent Affairs, law enforcement and decedent next of kin, as appropriate. Facilitates transportation of remains to designated ME facility. Performs additional tasks as requested by supervisor.

**This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program**

Why Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is. 

Equal Opportunity

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law".  Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Requires an Associate's Degree or completion of the Mayo Clinic Medical Examiner's Office internship, or a High School diploma or GED with a minimum of 2 years of work experience applicable to the duties listed above (i.e. emergency response, law enforcement or medical profession) is also acceptable. Experience with computers (i.e. Microsoft Office, web-based systems) is necessary. Prefer Bachelor's degree in related field. Previous employment as investigator with Medical Examiner or Coroner office. Previous experience with transport of decedents.

Additional Skills and Qualifications:

Knowledge of medical terminology and human anatomy. Able to adapt to high stress and traumatic situations. Able to work independently with strong communication (oral and written), problem solving, and organizational abilities. 

License or Certification:

Must achieve certification with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigations (ABMDI) within one year of accrual of required hours.  American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators Certification with appropriate certification maintenance. Must have a valid driver's license, with current vehicle insurance.


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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919