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Autopsy Assistant Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Autopsy Assistant information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do autopsy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy assistant in Spokane, WA is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autopsy assistant?

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 an autopsy assistant do?

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 as an autopsy assistant?

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 do I become an autopsy assistant?

To become an autopsy assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education in biology or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of anatomy, and familiarity with autopsy procedures; certification or training in forensic or medical assisting can also be beneficial. Experience working in a medical or laboratory environment may improve job prospects.

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, forensic science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or on-the-job training is common, and the total time can range from several months to a few years depending on educational pathways and certification requirements.

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 are popular job titles related to Autopsy Assistant jobs in Spokane, WA?

For Autopsy Assistant jobs in Spokane, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autopsy Assistant jobs in Spokane, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Autopsy Assistant jobs in Spokane, WA are:

What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Autopsy Assistant jobs?

Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Autopsy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Autopsy Assistant job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,036 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Tissue Recovery Coordinator

Spokane, WA • On-site

LifeCenter Northwest
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees

$30.22 - $52.94/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

With capable hands and care for the patient, the Tissue Recovery Coordinator (TRC) manages all aspects of aseptic recovery of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and vascular tissue for transplant and research.

**LifeCenter Northwest offers fully paid training and career growth for this position.**

Experience that translates well into this role: The Organ Procurement Industry is unique, but generally we find that people with experience in the following industries or positions can be successful in this position: Cornea or other Recovery technicians, Removal Technicians, Transport specialists, EMT, or someone with background or interest in anatomy & physiology or biological sciences, Forensic Autopsy technician, Funeral Services assistant, Sterile Processing Tech, Central Sterile, or Phlebotomy.

What you will do:

  • Aseptically recovers musculoskeletal, nerve, skin, cardiovascular and vascular tissues from deceased donors.
  • Pack supplies for tissue donation cases utilizing knowledge of processor criteria and age ranges.
  • Ability to perform a physical assessment, blood draw, and preparation of donor for recovery
  • Utilize sterile technique to efficiently run back table, including packaging, labeling, culturing grafts, and draping for recovery.
  • Document case data and complete recovery documentation within the assigned timeframe.
  • Works effectively with hospital OR staff to maintain good hospital relations and a cooperative work environment.
  • Drive personal and company vehicles to and from recovery locations.
  • Work 12 hour shifts, nights and days required.
  • Holidays, weekends, and overtime required, as needed

What you need:

  • High School diploma, GED, or equivalent
  • The ability to meet schedule and travel requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds with or without assistance
  • Valid Drivers License
  • Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or applicable medical or religious exemption will be required as a condition of employment upon offer. For those that need to complete the vaccination series, start dates will be adjusted. 

LifeCenter Northwest offers medical, dental, vision, basic life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, long-term disability insurance, and travel accident insurance. Employees have the option of enrolling in the following supplemental or voluntary plans: life insurance, short-term disability, accident insurance, hospital indemnity, critical illness coverage and pet insurance. Employees enrolled in our 403(b) program will receive an employer match of up to 7% after one year, employees are auto enrolled at 3% and may change their enrollment at any time. LifeCenter encourages all employees to find balance and well-being and provides all employees access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and provides a quarterly Wellness Reimbursement. Employees enjoy paid holidays throughout the calendar year and earn 119 hours of PTO annually (to start) as well as Health Time Off hours that is earned 1 hour per 30 worked, paid living donor leave, two weeks paid jury duty leave after 6 months of service, and three weeks of paid parental leave after one year of service is complete. A comprehensive review of benefits can be found at https://lcnw.org/about/employment-opportunities/.

PAY RANGE

  • TRC I: $30.22 - $43.83 Hourly
  • TRC II: $34.03 - $49.35 Hourly
  • TRC III: $36.50 - $52.94 Hourly   

The pay range for this role is provided above. Where a candidate’s compensation falls within this range is based on several bona fide factors such as experience, tenure, and other specialized knowledge. LifeCenter Northwest is committed to providing its employees equitable and competitive compensation.

This position is eligible for additional compensation to the base pay rate, in the form of Overtime, Extra Call Pay, Extra Call Worked, Overnight Differential, and Holiday Stipend Pay.

LifeCenter Northwest is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.