Coroner
Controller Job Description
A Coroner is a medical professional who confirms, certifies, and determines the cause of death for people in their jurisdiction. Coroners investigate deaths where the causes are unexplained, or the person’s identity is unknown.
They may also order an inquest into the cause of death if foul play is suspected.
Typical duties of a Controller
Roles and Responsibilities:
• Conduct autopsies and medico-legal examinations or supervise medical examiners responsible for performing these duties.
• Determine the cause, manner, and time of death of a deceased individual.
• Establish the identity of the deceased.
• Certify deaths and complete death certificates, including the cause and manner of death.
• Record and preserve any personal objects or items that may be related to the cause of death.
• Notify next of kin.
• Remove or supervise the removal of bodies using the appropriate equipment and arrange transportation to morgues.
• Testify at inquests, hearings, or court trials as required.
• Complete and maintain reports and death certificates.
• Confer with public health officials, doctors, and law enforcement officers.
Essential skills:
• Knowledge of local laws and legal regulations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong administration expertise
• Expertise with computers
• Analytical and detail-oriented
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in law, medicine, or related field.
• Be a qualified barrister, solicitor, or public official (depending on the state), or a licensed medical doctor.
• Prior experience may be preferred.