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Autopsy Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Overview Under the direction of the histology manager, the lab assistant is responsible for support ... Responsible for the distribution of all surgical and autopsy material to appropriate personnel.

Overview Under the direction of the histology manager, the lab assistant is responsible for support ... Responsible for the distribution of all surgical and autopsy material to appropriate personnel.

Autopsy Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do autopsy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy assistant in Rochester, NY is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an autopsy attendant do?

An autopsy attendant assists with the preparation and handling of bodies, setting up autopsy rooms, and supporting pathologists during examinations. They may also clean equipment, document procedures, and ensure the autopsy environment remains sterile and organized. This role often requires attention to detail, knowledge of safety protocols, and sometimes certification or training in mortuary practices.

How long does it take to be an autopsy assistant?

Becoming an autopsy assistant typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant post-secondary education such as a certificate or associate degree in mortuary science, anatomy, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or on-the-job training can take several months to a year, and some positions may require certification or licensure depending on the state or employer.

What is an Autopsy Assistant job?

An Autopsy Assistant helps forensic pathologists by preparing bodies, collecting specimens, and maintaining the morgue. They assist in examinations, document findings, and ensure proper handling of remains. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of anatomy, and the ability to work in a clinical or forensic setting.

What does a typical workday look like for an Autopsy Assistant?

A typical day for an Autopsy Assistant involves preparing the autopsy suite, assisting the pathologist during examinations, and handling specimens for lab analysis. You may be responsible for maintaining detailed records, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, and ensuring chain-of-custody protocols are followed. The role often requires collaboration with medical examiners, law enforcement, and laboratory staff. Due to the sensitive nature of the work, maintaining professionalism and discretion is essential throughout all responsibilities. Work schedules can vary, including on-call or weekend shifts depending on the facility.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Autopsy Assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autopsy Assistant, you need foundational knowledge in anatomy, pathology, and safe laboratory practices, usually supported by an associate degree or relevant certification in mortuary science or a related field. Familiarity with autopsy instruments, evidence-handling protocols, and digital recordkeeping systems is often required. Exceptional attention to detail, communication skills, and emotional resilience help individuals excel in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining accuracy, ensuring legal compliance, and working smoothly within multidisciplinary forensic or pathology teams.

How to become a coroner assistant with no experience?

To become a coroner assistant, relevant education such as a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, along with strong organizational and communication skills. Gaining experience in medical or forensic environments, possibly through volunteering or internships, can improve prospects; some positions may require certification or training in death investigation procedures. Entry-level roles often involve assisting with administrative tasks and supporting forensic staff.

What qualifications do you need to be an autopsy assistant?

Autopsy assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education in biology, anatomy, or forensic science. Relevant skills include attention to detail, familiarity with medical terminology, and the ability to work in a morgue environment; certification is not usually required but can enhance job prospects.
What job categories do people searching Autopsy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Autopsy Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Autopsy Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Autopsy Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Autopsy Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,068 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Pathologists' Assistant (Per Diem, Variable Day Shift)

Pathologists' Assistant (Per Diem, Variable Day Shift)

Rochester Regional Health

Rochester, NY

$103K - $140K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Rochester Regional Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 212 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 875 rated healthcare providers


Job description

6Job Title: Pathologists' Assistant
Department: Pathology
Location: Unity Professional Office Building | 1561 Long Pond Rd. Rochester, NY 14626
Hours Per Week: Per Diem
Schedule: Monday - Friday, variable day shift
SUMMARY
Professional duties and responsibilities encompass the wide spectrum of Anatomic Pathology including autopsy and surgical pathology under the direction of a Pathologist. Autopsy pathology involves the description, prosection, preliminary anatomical diagnosis and selection of appropriate tissue for microscopic study. Surgical pathology responsibilities include description, dissection, and selection of appropriate tissue for microscopic study and gross diagnosis of surgical specimens.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Surgical Pathology - Under the supervision of staff pathologists, PA performs accurate and timely description and dissection of a wide variety of surgical specimens, including selection of appropriate tissues for microscopic study and gross diagnosis of selected surgical specimens in accordance with all departmental policies and regulatory standards.
  • Intraoperative Consultations- PA assists pathologists with intraoperative consultations, including frozen sections, touch preps and harvesting tissue for other purposes.
  • Autopsy Pathology - Under supervision of staff pathologists, PA performs accurate and timely description, prosection, preliminary anatomical diagnosis and selection of appropriate tissue for microscopic study in accordance with all departmental policies and regulatory standards. PA also supervises and directs morgue technician during autopsies.
  • Digital photography-PA photographs surgical pathology and autopsy specimens as needed and enters images into Anatomic Pathology database.
  • Additional duties and responsibilities as requested by Director of Anatomic Pathology (or designee).
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in biology or related sciences
  • Graduate of accredited Pathology Assistant Program (BS plus 2 years) or equivalent
  • ASCP certified as a PA or eligible to be certified the year of graduation from a Pathologist's Assistant Program
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Two years minimum full-time experience as a Pathologist Assistant preferred

EDUCATION:
LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.
For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.
Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.
PAY RANGE:
$103,000.00 - $140,000.00
CITY:
Rochester
POSTAL CODE:
14626
The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.
Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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