Associate State Medical Examiner

Location: Ankeny - 50023 - Polk County, IA

Job Type: Full-time

Job Number: 27-00633 Agency: 400 Health & Human Services - Public Health Opening Date: 09/15/2026

Closing Date: 10/15/2026 11:59 PM Central Linked In Tag: #LI-DNPPoint of Contact: Dennis Klein - dennis.klein@hhs.iowa.gov To Apply: To be considered applicants please send resume and cover letter to dennis.klein@hhs.iowa.gov.

Job Description: This is a non-merit position Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of Public Health, is seeking a dedicated and mission-driven Associate State Medical Examiner to join the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner (IOSME). This is an exciting opportunity to play a vital role in protecting public health, supporting families during difficult times, and contributing to medicolegal death investigations statewide. Work Location & Schedule Typical hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PMWeekend rotation approximately every seven weeks(limited hours)Statewide travel for courtroom testimony and depositions; state vehicle is available

What You'll Do: As an Associate State Medical Examiner, you will provide expert forensic pathology services and serve as a key resource for county medical examiners, law enforcement agencies, and the judicial system. Your work will help determine cause and manner of death, document injuries and disease, and advance the integrity of death investigations across Iowa's 99 counties.

Key Responsibilities: Perform postmortem examinations to document injuries, determine disease processes, establish cause and manner of death and collect evidence as authorized by Iowa Code section 331.802.Maintain complete and accurate records of all medicolegal death investigations under IOSME jurisdiction. Prepare timely, thorough autopsy reports using ancillary testing, consultations, and detailed medicolegal review. Provide expert testimony in court and depositions regarding autopsy findings and investigative conclusions. Communicate autopsy results sensitively and clearly to legal next of kin, investigating agencies and support staff. Complete and certify death certificates and cremation permits. Promptly communicate and advise county medical examiners and law enforcement agencies regarding scene procedures, autopsy requirements, and death certificate wording.

Benefits: Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth: Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage! Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation (96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year).Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month).Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses. Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind. Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges. Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs. For additional information on benefitsto see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator. Background Checks Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position. The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA EmployerHHS values those with "lived experience" and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the DHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired - Relay Iowa 1-800-735-2942 TDD).E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit All work performed on behalf of Iowa Health and Human Services must occur in the State of Iowa.

Minimum Qualification Requirements: Graduation from an accredited school of medicine, completion of an internship program and licensure as a physician by the State of Iowa. For additional information, please click on this. Why Choose the State of Iowa? At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits: Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise. Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits. Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost. Retirement Planning: We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Paid Time Off: Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters. Professional Development: Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement. Employee Assistance Program (EAP):We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation. Join Us - Elevate Your Career: Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!