Job Specification Details

Leadership and management of complex medical and administrative work within the Department of Health. Coordinate activities of Medical Examiner's office with VDH Department divisions as well as relevant programs in the Agency of Human Services, notably vital statistics unit, infectious disease unit and state laboratory. Duties include medico legal autopsies, program administration and supervision, consultative services, and expert witness testimony. Supervision is exercised over the Deputy Chief Medical Examiners, appointed Regional physician and non-physician Assistant Medical Examiners (AMEs), AME coordinator and administrative support staff. Externally there is extensive coordination with State's Attorneys, the Attorney General's Office and criminal investigation authorities. Facilitate and lead the Commissioner appointed advisory panel whose role is to explore the opportunities and challenges of combining the OCME with the University of Vermont, Department of Pathology. Position reports to the Director of the Division of Health Surveillance for administrative, financial and operations matters, and to the Commissioner of the Department of Health for medical and health policy making. All employees of the Agency of Human Services perform their respective functions adhering to four key practices: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.

Expert leadership in planning, organizing, and directing the State Medical Examiner's system of services. Supervise the work of subordinate staff and serve as consultant and advisor to Regional Medical Examiners, Assistant Medical Examiners, pathologists, and other contractual employees. Develop, update and implement program policies and procedures. Prepare or supervise preparation of a wide variety of reports such as those requested by state/federal agencies and the media on medical examiner case data. Determine need for and negotiate laboratory support services. Prepare budget and manage fiscal matters for program. Assign, direct and perform medico legal autopsies and related tests. Provide information to decedent's next-of-kin regarding medico legal examination results. Conduct investigations and interviews as necessary. Ensure that appropriate records are maintained and available as needed. Provide expert testimony and counsel to law enforcement officials, State's Attorneys, and courts on criminal cases. Ensure that appropriate informational, educational and training programs are conducted for law enforcement officers, regional medical examiners, assistant medical examiners, physicians, attorneys, and others. Ensure that education on forensic pathology is delivered to a variety of health professionals including medical residents in Pathology of Medicine at UVM. Perform related work as required. Ensure that National Accreditation of the OCME is maintained. Lead the department's senior management staff in applying autopsy information and data to public health policy and practice.

Work requires physical ability to perform autopsies. Some travel may be required; a valid Vermont driver's license or access to some private means of transportation is desirable. Duties may involve unusual and irregular work hours, including evenings and weekends.

Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, methods, and techniques of forensic pathology.

Thorough knowledge of pertinent federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies.

Thorough knowledge of current developments in forensic pathology.

Expert communication skills with medical colleagues and staff and working knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration.

Ability to lead and motivate staff.

Ability to build consensus among groups with both divergent and strong viewpoints (ability to engage members, demonstrate active listening as well as flexibility and ability to establish trust, etc)

Ability to perform autopsies and related tests.

Demonstrated ability to prepare testimony and act as an expert witness in court.

Ability to prepare and present clear and concise reports.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to perform job duties within the framework of the four key practices of the Agency of Human Services: customer service, holistic service, strengths-based relationships and results orientation.

Education: Doctor of Medicine or Osteopathy with certification as a forensic pathologist by the American Board of Pathology.

Experience: Five years as a forensic pathologist including two years at a manager/administrative level.

Eligibility for, or licensure to practice medicine or osteopathy in Vermont is a requirement for this class.

Candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position. AHS Policy 4.02, Hiring Standards, pursuant to 20 V.S.A. 2056c or other applicable statutory authority, requires criminal record checks for all AHS positions, including motor vehicle driving record checks and national record checks where appropriate.