Forensic Transport & Dispatch Technician

Harris County - Houston, TX

Part-time - Entry Level

Houston, TX

Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities

About the position

The Forensic Transport & Dispatch Technician plays a crucial role in the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences by responding to medicolegal death scenes and healthcare facilities to assist in the investigation and transport of human remains. This position involves processing decedents upon arrival at the morgue, taking scene photographs, and triaging incoming notifications of death calls to dispatch appropriate responses and resources. The technician ensures that all procedures are conducted with integrity and professionalism, contributing to the overall mission of providing high-quality forensic services to the community.

Responsibilities

• Responds and drives transport vehicle to identified death scenes, healthcare facilities, and residences throughout Harris County to assist in the investigation and transport of human remains.
• Takes scene photographs and inventories decedent personal property.
• Picks up scene photos, surveillance, body cam footage, hospital/healthcare records, and other documents when needed.
• Checks in decedents upon arrival to the morgue and takes digital fingerprints for identification.
• Performs inventory of decedent prescription medications obtained from the scene, healthcare facility, or residence.
• Performs x-rays on decedents as requested.
• Answers main Forensic Investigations Division phone line and triages phone calls and notifications of death calls.
• Assists funeral homes with death certificate information and completes death inquests.
• Coordinates with organ procurement agencies.

Requirements

• Associate Degree from an accredited college or university.
• Maintain a valid Texas Driver's License and ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Strong communication skills with effective organization and time management skills.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions; ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office.
• Natural ambulation and manual dexterity skills due to the essential physical demands of continually manipulating bodies.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Forensic Science, Biological Sciences, or related field.
• Previous employment within a morgue or investigation setting.

Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Vision Coverage
• Wellness Plan
• Life Insurance
• Long-term disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Ten (10) days of vacation each year for the first five (5) years of service
• Eleven (11) County-observed holidays and one (1) floating holiday
• Professional development opportunities
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
• Healthcare Reimbursement Account
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan