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Autopsy Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... autopsy, forensic toxicology, ballistic/firearms examination, trace evidence, forensic serology, forensic anthropology, DNA technology, and interpretation of histology and clinical chemistry;

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Autopsy Tech information

See California salary details

$10

$29

$59

How much do autopsy tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy tech in California is $29.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.65 and $39.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an autopsy tech?

To thrive as an Autopsy Tech, you need a solid understanding of anatomy, pathology, and laboratory procedures, typically supported by an associate degree in mortuary science or a related field. Familiarity with autopsy instruments, dissection tools, specimen labeling systems, and safety protocols such as OSHA guidelines is often required. Attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to handle sensitive situations compassionately are crucial soft skills. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure accurate post-mortem examinations, maintain workplace safety, and uphold the dignity of decedents and their families.

What is the difference between Autopsy Tech vs Forensic Technician?

AspectAutopsy TechForensic Technician
CertificationsAutopsy Tech certification, CPRForensic Science certification, CPR
Work EnvironmentMedical examiner's office, morgueCrime labs, crime scenes
Job FocusAssisting with autopsies, specimen handlingCollecting evidence, scene analysis
Industry UsageMedical examiner offices, mortuariesLaw enforcement, forensic labs

Autopsy Techs primarily assist with autopsies and work in morgues, focusing on specimen handling. Forensic Technicians often work in crime labs or at crime scenes, focusing on evidence collection and analysis. While both roles support criminal investigations, Autopsy Techs are more involved in post-mortem procedures, whereas Forensic Technicians handle evidence processing.

What are common challenges faced by autopsy techs in their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Autopsy Techs often encounter emotional and physical challenges, such as handling exposure to biological hazards and working with deceased individuals in sensitive circumstances. Managing these challenges typically involves strict adherence to safety protocols, use of personal protective equipment, and effective stress management techniques. Many techs also rely on strong teamwork and support from colleagues to navigate difficult cases. Regular training and open communication with pathologists and other staff help ensure a safe and professional environment.

What is an autopsy tech?

Autopsy techs, also known as autopsy technicians or morgue technicians, are professionals who assist pathologists in conducting autopsies and post-mortem examinations. Their responsibilities include preparing the body, setting up and maintaining equipment, documenting findings, collecting samples, and ensuring proper safety and sanitation protocols are followed. They play a critical role in supporting forensic investigations and helping determine the cause of death. Autopsy techs may work in hospitals, medical examiner offices, or forensic laboratories.

What are popular job titles related to Autopsy Tech jobs in California?

For Autopsy Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Autopsy Tech jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Autopsy Tech jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Autopsy Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Autopsy Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Autopsy Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,203 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Physician Pathology - Competitive Salary

UC Davis Health

Sacramento, CA

$210K - $409K/yr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


UC Davis Health rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Autopsy Pathologist Assistant/Associate/Full Professor

UC Davis Health, Sacramento Campus

Salary Range: The salary range for this position is $210,000 – $409,700. This position includes membership in the Health Sciences Compensation Plan.

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine is seeking a dynamic physician-leader at the Assistant/Associate/Professor level to serve in the Autopsy Pathology section. Leadership opportunities are available for highly qualified candidates, including as Director of the Autopsy service. The UC Davis Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, led by Chair Dr. Florette Kimberly Hazard, is an innovative and growing department.

This position reports to the Director of Anatomic Pathology. Clinical responsibilities include primary coverage of the autopsy service. Additional participation on other clinical services can be considered, in consultation with the department Chair. The candidate may participate in the residency program. Preference will be given to candidates with an interest in teaching gross anatomy and pathology to medical students. Administrative responsibilities include oversight of the Autopsy Service, which includes oversight of autopsy policies and procedures and compliance with accreditation requirements in partnership with Hospital Laboratory Services. Approximately 60% time will be spent in clinical duties involving autopsy pathology. Teaching duties will chiefly consist of clinical teaching of house staff and medical students and presenting cases at inter- and intradepartmental conferences. Experience in pediatric pathology is beneficial.

Participation in the research mission is expected, either as a collaborator or leader of clinically oriented research projects pertinent to the candidate’s areas of expertise and training. Preference will be given to candidates with an interest in establishing an autopsy research program. The Department accessions more than 21,000 surgical and 14,000 cytology specimens per year. The clinical laboratory performs more than 10 million tests per year, including point-of-care tests.

This position will be hired into Assistant/Associate/Professor level at a title of Clinical (X) or Health Sciences Clinical Professor (HSCP) series. Faculty in the Clinical X series are expected to engage in professional competence and activity, teaching, research and creative work, and University/public service. Faculty in the Health Sciences Clinical Professor series are expected to engage in teaching, professional competence and activity, scholarly or creative activities, and University/public service.

Qualified applicants should apply at https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/apply/JPF07245

Documents/materials must be submitted as PDF files and will include: (1) Curriculum Vitae; (2) Cover letter; (3) Statement of clinical, teaching and research background; (4) List of names and contact information for at least five references.

The UC Davis Health School of Medicine is part of the UC Davis Health System, which is also comprised of the UC Davis Medical Center, the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, and the UC Davis Medical Group, an 800-member physician practice network. UCDHS has more than 10,000 faculty and staff and an annual budget of $1.6 billion; UC Davis is an established leader in the use of telecommunications and information technology to advance health. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked the SOM among the top 50 medical schools in the nation.

UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco-free campus (http://breathefree.ucdavis.edu/).

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state for federal law.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UC Davis positions funded by federal contracts or sub-contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E-Verify check. More information is available at: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and students. Our excellence in research, teaching, and service are embodied by members of our academic community who share our commitment to these values. A variety of resources and programs are available to academics, staff, and students that reflect the core values reflected in our strategic plan: “To Boldly Go,” our Principles of Community, the Office of Academic Affairs’ Mission Statement, and the UC Board of Regents Policy 4400.


UC Davis also is making important progress towards our goal of achieving federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). There are numerous links available on the About Us webpage where you can learn more about our administration, campus rankings, locations, campus safety, sustainability, visiting UC Davis and UC Davis Health.

The university is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world for campus sustainability practices by the UI Green Metric World University Rankings. UC Davis is focused on achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and repeatedly shown its commitment to preserving a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.


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