Summary

Under direct supervision, assists with autopsy cases and provides general support to pathologists and other technical staff.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assists with the collection, inventory and preservation of valuables, personal belongings, and evidence and materials for case documentation and for legal chain of evidence.
2. Assists with preparing spaces for autopsies by laying out supplies and instruments and documenting and handling materials during and after the autopsy process.
3. Assists with disinfecting bodies, facilities, and equipment after cases.
4. Cleans and maintains laboratory equipment, facilities, and related materials; maintains and stocks inventory and supplies; prepares autopsy chemicals.
5. Performs data entry on computer as appropriate; prepares applicable reports.
6. May receive and/or transport bodies of deceased persons, ensuring appropriate confidentiality.
7. Practices safety, environmental, and/or infection control methods.
8. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; no experience required.
• Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to understand and follow complex, detailed technical instructions.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Ability to complete routine paperwork.
• Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
• Ability to work with distressing and/or unpleasant odors, procedures and circumstances.

Conditions of Employment

• May be required to submit immunization records for review for required vaccines and TB testing.
• UNM will provide Hepatitis vaccination, candidate may decline vaccination through declination form or may provide record of vaccination from previous employer.
• Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.
• Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Work involves almost constant exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises.
• Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.
• Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of protective equipment.
• Will work in a death environment with occasional noxious odors.
• Will work with blood or blood-borne pathogens and will require OSHA training.

The University of New Mexico provides all training required by OSHA to ensure employee safety.

Revised Date: 12/10/2021