Forensic Autopsy Technician Intern

Intern must be local to attend in-person cohort meetings, activities, and any work-related tasks. The program runs 6/2/2025 – 8/22/2025, but there is some flexibility with the start and end dates.

Why It's a Great Opportunity:  

The Pierce County Summer internship program is back! Our program will run from 6/2/2025 through 8/22/2025. We are excited to offer opportunities that provide realistic and meaningful work experiences while providing Pierce County Departments, the Council, the Executive's Office and Courts with interns who bring fresh perspectives and assistance to complete special projects. Interns also get an opportunity to be a part of a cohort of interns who will attend weekly activities together. These sessions include professional development classes, collaboration with other interns, and tours of various departments and facilities where you will learn about the County and the types of great job opportunities we offer. As a cohort, you will be responsible for a culminating group project/presentation to the Pierce County Council.  

Check out what our interns have done in the past! 

https://www.piercecountywa.gov/6506/Paid-Internship-Program

The Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office (PCMEO) has a unique hands-on opportunity for you to learn about the laws and practices of a medical examiner office while investigating deaths within our community. You will work alongside a team of professional forensic autopsy technicians on several key components of the job, including, but not limited to: Daily case reviews and outcomes; conducting autopsies; doing external examinations of decedents and obtaining biological specimens and postmortem fingerprints; conducting forensic photography and assisting with x-rays; retrieving and transporting decedents, records, and biological samples; and obtaining biological specimens. Your own first-hand experience in this position will allow you to gain vital and in-depth experience in the field and provide you an amazing opportunity to set your future resume apart from your peers.
 

About the Department:  
The PCMEO is accredited by the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME). The PCMEO is a stand-alone facility which boasts a Lodox™ full-body radiography machine, spacious personal workstations and offices, and a fleet of professional scene response vehicles. The PCMEO investigates all sudden, unexplained, suspicious, unnatural, unlawful, and violent deaths that occur in Pierce County. For more information about our great organization please visit us by clicking HERE.

How to be Successful in the Role:
We are looking for a compassionate and empathetic student with a willingness to work with a diverse population during stressful and/or uncomfortable situations. You will have to be willing to work up close with deceased persons, disfigured remains, and bodies in various stages of decomposition. You will also need to be skilled in doing hands-on work and comfortable using sharp instruments as well as possess strong communication skills, intermediate computer/technology skills, and the ability to multitask and stay organized in what can be a fast-paced environment involving complex tasks. Also essential is your personal commitment to providing excellent public service to the community and the ability to keep sensitive and sometimes disturbing information confidential.
 

Core Daily Responsibilities:

• Participate in case review and findings/outcomes debriefings
• Assist with forensic examinations
• Conduct forensic photography and x-rays
• Obtain postmortem fingerprints

Qualifications:

Requirements: 

• Must be local 6/2/2025 – 8/22/2025 to attend in-person cohort meetings, activities, and any work-related tasks
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Current college student or recent graduate that is/was or will be enrolled in a Forensic Science, Criminal Justice, or Healthcare education or training program
• Submit a cover letter with your application
• Desire to serve the community with empathy and compassion
• Willingness to learn and grow
   

Submitted Prior to Start:

• Completed TB (PPD Skin Test)
• Signed confidentiality statement
• Hepatitis B Immunization (complete series, started series, or recent titer) or a signed form opting out
• Must be able to be fit tested for and wear an N95 respirator mask in the Autopsy Suite and at scenes when applicable
• Must understand the risk of working with bloodborne and airborne pathogens and if hired complete associated training

As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

To be considering for this opportunity please:
 

• Complete and submit an online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting "APPLY" above or go to:   www.piercecountywa.gov/jobs.
• If you have a question about this opportunity, please email the Recruitment Team at PCHRRecruit@piercecountywa.gov and specify the Job Number and Title.
• If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process, or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.

This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.

At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step. We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career. We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision.  Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse community. Will you join us in keeping Pierce County place people are proud to call home?