On-Call Death Investigator
Walla Walla, WA 99362
10/9/2025
Position Description
Coroner’s Office
Position: On-Call Death Investigator
Salary Range: $50 a day stand-by time, $24.95-$33.44 @ hour call-out
Location Coroner’s Office
Employment Type: Stand-by
Open Until Filled
Brief Duties and Responsibilities: Prepare and complete comprehensive case files which pertain to the location, investigation and other information the supports and establishes the cause and manner of death. Consult with law enforcement and other agencies regarding cases under the jurisdiction of the County Coroner’s office. Secure, labels and send blood samples to toxicology lab. Notify appropriate authorities of results. Collect and preserve physical and biological evidence for criminal and civil cases such as infectious disease. Travel to scenes of homicides, suicides, accidental, questionable and/or unattended deaths as required by Washington State law. Provide initial emotional and psychological support to individuals and families at investigation scenes. Conduct a systematic scene investigation, to assist with determining the cause and manner of death. Take custody of the remains in accordance with the prescribed protocol and procedure. Perform initial on scene examination of the remains, take photographs and collect information relevant or related to the cause and manner of death. Conduct external examination of bodies and collect body fluid for the purpose of toxicology testing as may be required in individual cases. Conduct joint investigations with law enforcement agencies and in conjunction with County, State and Federal agencies, to assist in determining the cause and manner of death.
Working Environment/Physical Abilities: Work is performed in a variety of settings; indoors, outdoors, various weather conditions, daytime and nighttime. Must be able to manipulate heavy
objects. Physical abilities required for this position are: sufficient hearing and speech ability to communicate verbally; ability to tolerate difficult environmental conditions such as strong odors,
pets, tobacco smoke; ability to access a variety of locations where deaths might occur including uneven surfaces, ladders, stairs, etc. Work in and with potential health issues and exposure to
infectious diseases and various body fluids. Must be available 24 hours a day while on “stand-by time”.
Minimum Qualifications: Associate’s degree from accredited college or university or 2 years work experience in related field that would provide the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the
job. LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Washington State Medicolegal Forensic Investigation Certificate to be obtained within 12 months of initial hire date. Maintain a valid
Washington State Driver License and acceptable diving record to drive County Vehicle. Must successfully pass a background check. Requirement to be flexible for an on-call work schedule.
For Application: Application, resume, and cover letter required. Job description is available on our website at www.wwcowa.gov where you can apply online. SELECTION IS BASED ON QUALIFICATIONS, BACKGROUND CHECK, DRIVING RECORD CHECK, AND ORAL INTERVIEWS. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER / ADA COMPLIANT
Type: Per-diem
Pay: $24.95 to $33.44 per HOUR