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Autopsy Tech Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Autopsy Tech information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$29

$59

How much do autopsy tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,720 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Senior Anatomy Laboratory Technician

Mayo Clinic

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Mayo Clinic rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 699 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Organizational Relationships:
Reports to and receives direction from appropriate campus leadership (Center for Procedural Innovation Coordinator, Operations Administrator, Operations Manager or other as assigned). Works collaboratively with physicians, scientists, allied health staff, simulation center staff, research staff, course directors and external visitors.
Position Overview (Major Functions and Non-Essential Functions):
The Senior Laboratory Technician utilizes their surgical and procedural knowledge and expertise to provide expert professional services, including provision of required equipment and instrumentation, to support the needs of all Mayo and external educators, innovators and researchers. The Senior Laboratory Technician is responsible for supporting the educational, clinical and research activities of the assigned laboratory, including preparing the environment, care and operation of equipment, instrument set-up, cleaning and sterilization, monitoring inventory of supplies and re-setting following an activity. The Senior Laboratory Technician will handle cadaveric tissue, communicate policies, procedures, and expectations, assist with data collection/management, dispose of hazardous waste according to policy/protocol, and assist with surgical procedures and support activities as assigned.
In laboratories where animal tissue is utilized, the Senior Laboratory Technician will handle such tissue. In laboratories with a donor program, the Senior Laboratory Technician will provide general laboratory support including embalming, portioning and tissue management. In laboratories that work closely with simulation centers, the Senior Laboratory Technician will be cross trained to support simulation activities including the preparation and operation of simulation equipment.
The Senior Laboratory Technician will maintain current knowledge of equipment, instrumentation and supplies and their vendors required to support the laboratory, assist in the evaluation of equipment and order instrumentation and supplies. The Senior Laboratory Technician will provide training and mentorship to junior staff, proactively recommend updates to policies and procedures and make recommendations on the proficient use of surgical equipment and sterile surgical techniques. The Senior Laboratory Technician will assist in scheduling laboratory space and tissue and the associated billing process.
Activities may occur and require support outside of the regular working day, most commonly evenings and weekends.
**Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.
Qualifications
Minimum Education and/or Experience Required (Minimum Job Requirements, Education Requirements, Experience):
Associate degree in life science or healthcare related field (Associate degree in another area or higher equivalent certification or program completion, e.g., Certified Surgical Tech, Military Surgical Tech, Surgical First Assistant or similar may be considered) and five (5) years of surgical or procedural experience working within a hospital, clinical, or pathology setting; OR bachelor's degree in a life science or healthcare related field and three (3) years of surgical or procedural experience working within a hospital, clinical, or pathology setting. Relevant experience may include work in the operating room, critical care or emergency medicine, bioskills or anatomy labs, willed body donation programs, medical examiner's offices, veterinary clinics, or other settings involving hands-on procedural work. Demonstrated proficiency of surgical or procedural techniques, instrumentation, specimen handling, and laboratory management required as well as proficiency in problem-solving, organization and self-direction.
Additional Experience and/or Qualifications (Has Achieved Competency in the Following Areas, Job Knowledge and Additional Considerations):
Must have the ability to work independently, with minimal supervision. Ability to be flexible and adapt to unpredictable situations. Flexibility in work hours that includes occasional off hours, evenings and weekends. Excellent problem solving, communication, and organizational skills.
In laboratories where animal tissue is utilized, experience with animal procedures is preferred.
In laboratories that work closely with the simulation centers, experience with simulation equipment is preferred.
Licensure/Certification Required: Certified Surgical Technician, Certified Forensic Autopsy Technician, or Veterinary Technician license with surgical or dissection experience preferred.
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