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Autopsy Tech Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Pathology Tech | Boston Childrens Hospital Position Summary/ Department Summary: Independently ... Provides technical and administrative support for autopsy service. Obtains and verifies completion ...

Morgue Attendant

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$17.71 - $24.28/hr

... people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a ... Autopsy spaces. - Demonstrates the ability to accurately review, interpret, and manage ...

Morgue Attendant

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$17.71 - $24.28/hr

... people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a ... Autopsy spaces. - Demonstrates the ability to accurately review, interpret, and manage ...

Morgue Attendant

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$17.71 - $24.28/hr

... people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a ... autopsy requests, contracted hospitals, funeral homes, New England Donor Services, Office of the ...

Autopsy Tech information

See Massachusetts salary details

$11

$32

$65

How much do autopsy tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy tech in Massachusetts is $32.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.34 and $42.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How do you become an autopsy tech?

To become an autopsy technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by postsecondary training or certification in mortuary science or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or on-the-job training is common, and familiarity with dissection tools and anatomy is important; some states may require licensure or certification. Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to handle sensitive situations are essential skills for this role.

How long does it take to be an autopsy tech?

Becoming an autopsy technician typically requires completing a post-secondary education program in mortuary science or a related field, which can take about 1 to 2 years. Additionally, on-the-job training and certification may be required, and some states or employers may have specific licensing or experience requirements.

Is an autopsy tech a good job?

An autopsy tech is a vital part of forensic and medical examiner teams, responsible for preparing bodies and assisting with autopsies. The role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and often involves working in a morgue environment, with certifications such as a mortuary science degree typically required. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in forensic pathology and public health, though it involves exposure to sensitive and sometimes distressing situations.

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

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

Infographic showing various Autopsy Tech job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,145 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Pathology Tech | Boston Childrens Hospital

Position Summary/ Department Summary: Independently performs a variety of duties in the Surgical Cutting room, including processing of frozen tissue, dictation of gross descriptions, and surgical cutting of routine specimens. Logs, accessions, and orders processing of surgical specimens. Provides support for the management, analysis, and quality control of data from patient biopsies and for quality assurance studies. Rotates coverage in general Pathology by accessioning, preparing, documenting, and performing autopsies, storing specimens, and maintaining autopsy room in operating condition.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Logs and accessions specimens and enters orders for laboratory procedures and special stains according to established protocols. Troubleshoots specimens not meeting acceptability requirements.
  • May dictate gross descriptions and submit sections for processing.
  • Performs maintenance and inventory of frozen section area on a daily basis.
  • Provides technical and administrative support for autopsy service. Obtains and verifies completion of required forms and authorizations. Prepares room and cadaver and assists Pathologist during autopsy. Removes, prepares, logs, and delivers/ships tissue and other specimens for analysis. Prepares body for release and maintains related logs and records. Cleans and maintains equipment in autopsy suite.
  • Maintains specimen archives and inventories in accordance with retention guidelines.
  • Supports tissue bio-banking program.
  • Assists with laboratory inventory and maintains an organized laboratory environment.
  • Ensures laboratory's compliance with accreditation and regulatory requirements, and Hospital and departmental policies, including safety, chemical hygiene, and infection control.
  • Follows established procedures for quality control and quality assurance, and assures continual implementation.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree is required. Biological science or closely related field is preferred.

Experience: Pathology lab experience may be substituted for up to 4 years of college education is required.


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About Children's Hospital Boston

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Children's Hospital Boston, located in Boston, MA, US, is a renowned non-profit hospital specializing in pediatric care. With its official website listed as childrenshospital.org, Children's Hospital Boston is part of the medical and healthcare industry. Founded in 1869, it has been committed to the highest-quality, holistic care for children for over 150 years. The institution is recognized globally for its innovative solutions and advances in pediatrics, making it one of the top-ranking pediatric hospitals in the US. The mission of Children's Hospital Boston is to provide top-tier care to all children without regard to background or ability to pay.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US