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Autopsy Tech Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

CLS/MT-Microbiology PRN

Hibbing, MN

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

... technologist initials and expected age related "normal" values on all down-time reports as ... Receives tissue specimens from surgery, autopsy and the nursing floors. Performs proper processing ...

Autopsy Tech information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$29

$59

How much do autopsy tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy tech in Minnesota is $29.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.52 and $38.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 qualifications do you need to do autopsies?

Autopsy technicians typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with post-secondary training or certification in mortuary science or a related field preferred. They must have knowledge of anatomy, dissection techniques, and proper use of autopsy tools, and often work under the supervision of a pathologist. Certification or licensing requirements vary by region but are not always mandatory.

How do you become an autopsy tech?

To become an autopsy technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by post-secondary training or an associate degree in mortuary science, pathology technology, or a related field. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the state, and familiarity with dissection tools and laboratory procedures is essential.

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 some 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 are autopsy techs?

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.

Is autopsy tech a good job?

Autopsy technicians, also known as morgue technicians, perform tasks such as preparing bodies for autopsy, assisting pathologists, and maintaining autopsy equipment. The role typically requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and adherence to safety protocols, with employment often available in medical examiner offices, hospitals, or forensic laboratories. It can be a stable career for those interested in forensic science or pathology support, though it involves exposure to sensitive and sometimes disturbing situations.

Where do autopsy techs get paid the most?

Autopsy techs tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for forensic services, such as large metropolitan areas or states with specialized medical examiner offices. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the employing institution's funding. Generally, urban areas and states with advanced forensic programs offer the highest pay for autopsy technicians.
What are popular job titles related to Autopsy Tech jobs in Minnesota? For Autopsy Tech jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autopsy Tech jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Autopsy Tech jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Autopsy Tech job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,720 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Histology Technician or Histotechnologist - Mayo Clinic HT/HTL Students Only

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 693 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


This position is only available to those currently in the HT/HTL program through the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (MCSHS).
Mayo Clinic is seeking Histology Technicians and Histotechnologists (HT/HTL) to join a dynamic and collaborative team within Anatomic Pathology. Opportunities are available across multiple specialized laboratory areas, including:
  • Histology
  • Frozen Section/Surgical Pathology
  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
  • Renal Pathology

Each lab is offering unique workflows, techniques, and clinical impact.
The Anatomic Pathology Laboratories at Mayo Clinic process a high volume of complex specimens, including hundreds of thousands of paraffin-embedded blocks and over one million slides annually. Specimens include surgical, autopsy, and research material. Our laboratories take pride in contributing to accurate patient diagnoses and advancing scientific knowledge through collaboration with pathologists, clinicians, and research investigators.
Visit the Clinical Labs career site to watch a brief video of Dane discussing a life-changing career in Histology at Mayo Clinic.
As an HT/HTL, you will play a critical role in preparing high-quality slides for pathologist review. Responsibilities may include embedding, microtomy, cryotomy, special staining, immunohistochemical techniques, and handling of fresh and complex specimens. The work requires attention to detail, adaptability, and a commitment to quality and patient care.
In addition, you will:
  • Support training and onboarding of students and new employees
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to ensure timely and accurate results
  • Contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and team-oriented work environment
  • Adapt to the unique demands and workflows of different subspecialty laboratories

Mayo Clinic offers extensive opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within Anatomic Pathology. Whether you are interested in developing technical expertise across multiple lab areas or specializing in a particular discipline, this role provides a strong foundation for long-term career development.
Don't miss the opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to excellence in patient care, innovation, and laboratory medicine.
Histology Technician / Histotechnologist (HT/HTL)
As a Histology Technician or Histotechnologist, you will perform a variety of technical procedures to prepare high-quality microscopic slide preparations used by pathologists for diagnostic and prognostic evaluation.
These procedures may include:
  • Specimen accessioning and identification
  • Specimen processing and embedding
  • Microtomy techniques, including:
    • Paraffin
    • Frozen (cryotomy)
    • Plastic sections
  • Routine Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining
  • Special stains
  • Immunofluorescence
  • Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining
  • In situ hybridization

*Individuals hired to this position are required to complete 2 years in this position before becoming eligible to apply to other positions within Mayo Clinic.
**These positions are ineligible for visa sponsorship. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program**
Qualifications
This position is only available to those currently in the HT/HTL program through the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (MCSHS)
Histology Technician (HT):
  • Associate degree required.
  • Coursework including 24 semester hours of the following:
    • A minimum of 12 credit hours in chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology
    • 6 credit hours in chemistry
    • 6 credit hours in biology
  • Histology Technician (HT) certified by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) required by start date

Histotechnologist (HTL):
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • Histotechnologist (HTL) certified by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) required by start date

Additional Qualifications
  • Graduate of a NAACLS accredited program preferred.
  • Graduates of the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences Histology Technician Program will receive preference.
  • Ability to accommodate scheduling adjustments, off shifts, holidays, on-call, and weekend work assignments.

*Employees obtaining certification(s) after January 1, 2004, will be required to demonstrate evidence of ongoing maintenance of certification.
Application Requirements
*All must be included for your application to be considered:
  • CV/Resume
  • Cover letter
  • Transcripts (unofficial copy accepted) or NACES detailed international equivalency for foreign degrees.
  • Internal candidates must provide their past three performance appraisals.

**DLMP employees that have been in current lab/position for less than 2 years must attach early release approval from supervisor.
***Non-DLMP internal applicants that have been in their current department/position for less than 1 year must attach early release approval from supervisor.
*International transcript:
  • MUST have a DETAILED equivalency evaluation.
  • MUST show US equivalent degree.
  • Evaluation MUST be completed from an organization listed as a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) www.naces.org OR the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) www.aice-eval.org

About Us
Why Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans - to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.
Benefits Highlights
  • Medical: Multiple plan options.
  • Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
  • Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
  • Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
  • Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

About the Team
Just as our reputation has spread beyond our Minnesota roots, so have our locations. Today, our employees are located at our three major campuses in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, Jacksonville, Florida, Rochester, Minnesota, and at Mayo Clinic Health System campuses throughout Midwestern communities, and at our international locations. Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer, and where your best fit is.
Equal Opportunity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Learn more about the "EOE is the Law". Mayo Clinic participates in E-Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

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About Mayo Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Mayo Clinic is the largest integrated, not-for-profit medical group practice in the world. We're building the future, one where the best possible care is available to everyone — and more people can heal at home. Our relentless research turns into earlier diagnoses and new cures. That's how we inspire hope in those who need it most. At Mayo Clinic, experts work together to solve the most challenging unmet needs of patients. Our history of innovation dates back almost 150 years, when brothers Will and Charlie Mayo pioneered an integrated, team-based approach to medicine. Today, that trailblazing spirit drives innovations like Mayo Clinic Platform — which powers new technologies to change how care is delivered to all.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, MN, US

Year founded

1919