Longtime Hamilton County Medical Examiner Frank King will switch roles with his assistant, Dr. James K. Metcalfe, county officials said.
Dr. Metcalfe will become medical examiner and Dr. King forensic examiner.
County Mayor Jim Coppinger said the switch is "cost neutral" to the county.
He said Dr. King would be taking a sizable pay cut. Prior to the move, Dr. King was making $195,000 and Dr. Metcalfe $144,000.
County Mayor Coppinger said the move had to be made because of certification requirements. He said Dr. Metcalfe has the necessary qualifications to meet the certification and Dr. King does not.
Without the certification, autopsies would no longer be allowed in Hamilton County, he said.
The transition is effective March 1.