Job description

Job Overview and Department Mission

This role fills a full-time, permanent position within the Department of Justice, committed to maintaining Yukon as a secure and healthy environment for its residents. The department fosters strong, respectful partnerships to promote governance and nurture safe communities with avenues for healing. The workplace is supportive and dynamic, comprising professional teams devoted to impactful community service.

Role Summary

Reporting directly to the Chief Coroner, the Deputy Coroner serves as a vital member of the Yukon Coroners Service. This position acts alongside the Chief Coroner as a key liaison with Investigating Coroners and law enforcement, offering professional, technical, and investigative expertise in mortality cases. The Deputy assists with ongoing communications, provides status updates and recommendations, and may fulfill Chief Coroner duties when required. Discretion and confidentiality are critical throughout all activities.

Responsibilities

The Deputy Coroner supports the effective operation of the Yukon Coroner Service by delivering professional guidance, applying investigative skills, and contributing to policy and standards development for death investigations under the Chief Coroner's leadership. Appointed as an Investigating Coroner, the incumbent carries out statutory duties as mandated by the Coroners Act, adhering to best professional practices and ethical standards, maintaining independence from government agencies during inquiries.

Qualifications

A relevant post-secondary degree from an accredited institution at a Bachelor of Science level or higher in areas such as medico-legal death investigation, forensic medicine, medicine, nursing, law, biological sciences, forensic anthropology, social work, or related disciplines.
Considerable experience in fields associated with medical, legal, or death investigations.
Preference for applicants with prior experience as a Coroner or in medico-legal death investigations, especially those familiar with northern remote communities.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Desired Skills and Attributes

Strong interest in death investigations, particularly within northern remote regions.
Comprehensive understanding and respect for diverse northern cultures, with the ability to balance medico-legal requirements and cultural sensitivities when investigating sudden deaths and managing human remains.
Capability to work effectively in multicultural settings emphasizing Yukon First Nations culture.
Knowledge of pertinent legislation, regulations, and investigation protocols.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact with healthcare professionals, peace officers, and individuals experiencing significant distress.
Strong ethical judgment and problem-solving skills, including resource evaluation and decision making in professional death investigations.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
Risk assessment and mitigation experience.
Identifying public safety concerns and recommending improvements.
Leadership proficiency, including mentoring, communication, and interpersonal capabilities.
Empathetic listening and guidance skills.
Organizational excellence for managing varied workloads, competing priorities, and unpredictable circumstances.
Competence in crisis intervention, anger management, interviewing, assessment, and conflict resolution.
Resilience in high-stress environments while respecting cultural diversity and needs.
Self-care planning to manage prolonged exposure to grief and tragedy.
Outstanding written communication skills.
Familiarity with governance structures involving Yukon government, public agencies, First Nation governments, and other stakeholders.
Recognition or membership in a Yukon First Nation is advantageous.
Commitment to confidentiality regarding sensitive and personal information.

Employment Conditions

Appointment eligibility as a Coroner in Yukon, requiring a valid Vulnerable Sector Security Clearance.
Possession of a valid Yukon Class 5 Driver’s License or equivalent transferable license.
Verification of education credentials and professional experience.

Additional Requirements

Flexibility for regular travel across Yukon Territory at short notice.
Willingness to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, statutory holidays, and standby periods.

Contact Information

Questions about this position may be directed to the Yukon Coroners Service Manager at (867) 667-5317.

Human Resources inquiries can be made at (867) 332-5209.