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Autopsy Doctor Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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$13

$16

$25

How much do autopsy doctor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy doctor in Arizona is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an autopsy doctor do?

An autopsy doctor, also known as a forensic pathologist, is a medical doctor who specializes in determining the cause of death by examining bodies. They perform autopsies to investigate sudden, unexpected, or suspicious deaths, collect medical evidence, and may testify in court about their findings. In addition to working with law enforcement, autopsy doctors also contribute to research and public health by identifying disease outbreaks or harmful substances. Their work is crucial for providing closure to families and supporting the justice system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an autopsy doctor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autopsy Doctor, you need a Doctor of Medicine (MD or DO) degree, completion of a pathology residency, and board certification in forensic pathology. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, autopsy instruments, and toxicology analysis tools is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication are essential soft skills for accurately documenting findings and testifying in legal settings. These competencies ensure precise cause-of-death determinations, uphold legal standards, and support public health and justice.

What are some common challenges faced by autopsy doctors in their daily work?

Autopsy doctors often encounter challenging cases that require meticulous attention to detail and strong analytical skills, especially when determining causes of death in complex situations. They may also manage emotional stress from working with deceased individuals and interacting with grieving families. Additionally, autopsy doctors must stay current with evolving forensic technology and legal standards, and they frequently collaborate with law enforcement, pathologists, and other medical professionals to ensure thorough investigations.

What is the difference between Autopsy Doctor vs Forensic Pathologist?

AspectAutopsy DoctorForensic Pathologist
CredentialsMedical degree, pathology residency, autopsy trainingMedical degree, pathology residency, forensic pathology fellowship
Work EnvironmentHospitals, medical examiner offices, morguesMedical examiner offices, crime labs, hospitals
Industry UsagePrimarily in hospitals and medical settingsLegal investigations, criminal cases, legal proceedings

Autopsy Doctors and Forensic Pathologists both perform autopsies and require medical degrees with pathology training. However, Forensic Pathologists specialize in legal investigations and work closely with law enforcement, often handling criminal cases. Autopsy Doctors may work in medical or hospital settings without a focus on legal cases. The key difference lies in their work focus and environment, with Forensic Pathologists primarily involved in legal investigations.

How do you become an autopsy doctor?

To become an autopsy doctor, typically a medical degree is required, followed by completing a residency in pathology. Forensic pathologists often pursue additional training in forensic medicine and may obtain certification from relevant medical boards, working in medical examiner or coroner offices. Strong knowledge of anatomy, pathology, and forensic science is essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Autopsy Doctor jobs in Arizona?

For Autopsy Doctor jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autopsy Doctor jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Autopsy Doctor jobs in Arizona are:

Autopsy Doctor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autopsy Doctor job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 2% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,721 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Medical Examiner - CHS (Prescott Valley)

Yavapai County Government

Prescott, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Role Under general direction, performs work of considerable difficulty in postmortem examinations to determine the cause and manner of death and, if necessary, assists law enforcement in the identity of deceased persons. Major Duties, Responsibilities Performs timely postmortem examinations, retaining samples, specimens, and tissues necessary for analysis, examination, and documentation in accordance with applicable laws and standard practices of forensic pathology. Prepares timely written autopsy reports opining the cause and manner of death; prepares and maintains detailed and accurate records, reports, and other documentation as well as physical evidence.

Confers with law enforcement officials and attorneys in criminal cases, and provides expert testimony. Ensures compliance with all legal requirements of a Medical Examiner's Office, including compliance with NAME Forensic Autopsy Performance Standards. Assists with the preparation and administration of the operational budget.

Responds to community emergencies with a public health consequence according to the department's Emergency Response Plan. Performs other job-related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Education: Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree from an accredited medical school

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of pathology / forensic experience. License or Certification: Active Arizona medical license. Additional Requirements: Board Certified in Forensic and Anatomical Pathology.

Other Skills Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of: Considerable knowledge of pathology and forensic pathological procedures, law, statutes, and policies relating to postmortem examinations, human anatomy and autopsy procedures and safe and proper handling of body fluids, tissues, and other body parts. Business English, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and composition. Clerical, office practices and procedures.

Research techniques and report writing. Current MS office software. Filing and recordkeeping.

Skill in: Leadership skills that create a workplace environment that fosters open communication, teamwork, and professionalism. Mentoring and supervisory skills. Practicing clear and tactful communication verbally, telephonically and in writing with public and employees.

Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public. Well-organized and detail oriented. Ability to: Develop and maintain effective working relationships with associates, employees of other departments, representatives of other organizations, County officials, and the public.

Assist in developing long term plans for the department and to anticipate resources needed. Maintain current knowledge of state and federal regulations governing death investigations. Keep management informed of key operating issues affecting the department.

Remain current in knowledge required to perform assigned duties. Handle confidential matters and maintain discretion. Work professionally and effectively with administration, staff, and the general public.

Act with courtesy, tact, and diplomacy Work Environment: Work is performed in a temperature-controlled environment. Work environment is subject to noxious odors. Occasional potential exposure to radiation hazards.

The category may have a high risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens. Hepatitis B vaccine, tuberculosis screening, respiratory protection training and safety equipment will be provided. Clinical staff are required to use appropriate protective equipment.

Physical Requirements: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time. Sufficient vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech ability to communicate effective in-person and telephonically. Capable of frequent repetitive movement of arms, fingers, and wrists.

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds; push/pull up to 150 pounds with assistance. Additional Job Information: FLSA: Exempt Grade: UNG Classification: At-Will Safety Sensitive: Yes

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