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Autopsy Tech Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work with advanced technology and be part ... Performs autopsy prosection, obtains appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation and describes ...

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

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

Autopsy Tech information

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 Detroit, MI?

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

Infographic showing various Autopsy Tech job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution.

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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

DMC University Laboratories, Inc. is committed to providing exceptional patient care in a supportive and collaborative environment. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work with advanced technology and be part of a healthcare community dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of our patients.

Benefits Statement

At Tenet Healthcare, we understand that our greatest asset is our dedicated team of professionals. Thatโ€™s why we offer more than a job โ€“ we provide a comprehensive benefit package that prioritizes your health, professional development, and work-life balance. The available plans and programs include:
โ€ข Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
โ€ข 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
โ€ข Generous paid time off (PTO)
โ€ข Career development and continuing education opportunities
โ€ข Health savings accounts, healthcare & dependent flexible spending accounts
โ€ข Employee Assistance program, Employee discount program
โ€ข Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long term care, elder & childcare, auto & home insurance.

Note: Eligibility for benefits may vary by location and is determined by employment status

Job Summary:

Under general direction of a pathologist, assists in all aspects of anatomic pathology. Describes and examines surgical specimens and prepares such specimens for histology processing. Performs autopsy prosection, obtains appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation and describes findings. Assists in preparation, processing and determination of adequacy of fine needle aspirates and renal biopsies. Participates in seminars and provides instruction for medical and pathologist assist students concerning technique and protocol in autopsy and surgical pathology.

Under the direction of a pathologist, performs prosections and dictates gross description of surgical specimens.

Ensures that appropriate legal permission has been obtained to perform autopsies. Assists pathologist and clinicians in obtaining permission if necessary.

Prepares abstracts of medical records and presents abstracts to pathologists prior to beginning an autopsy.

Maintains autopsy room, associated facilities and all instruments and equipment in a clean and safe condition as specified by department safety and OSHA guidelines. Obtains and transports supplies necessary to operation of autopsy and gross rooms.

Transfers and handles body from morgue to autopsy table.

Conducts autopsy from start to finish including description, prosection, selection, collection and submission of designated specimens for microscopic evaluation, and special studies.

Conducts Training seminars, instructing pathologist assist students in technique and protocol of autopsy and gross surgical pathology. Demonstrates gross pathology protocol and procedures to new residents.

Prepares fine needle aspirates and renal biopsy specimens for examination utilizing appropriate laboratory techniques and protocols. Examines specimens for adequacy.

Evaluates and provides feedback on student projects.

May assist with sections/specimens utilizing cryostat, stains and coverslip slides; maintains frozen section equipment.

May perform and/or assist pathologist or designate in performance of tasks related to medical photography.

May maintain procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.

Works open pathologist assistant shifts across multiple laboratory sites, including Harper University Hospital, Sinai-Grace Hospital, and Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital.

Qualifications:

1. Graduate from a Baccalaureate Pathology Assistant program or successful completion of a post bachelorโ€™s program from an approved school of Pathology Assistants. OR Bachelorโ€™s degree in sciences with background in physiology and anatomy with three to five years experience in pathology.

2. Certification by American Association of Pathology Assistants (AAPA) or American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) as a Pathology Assistant, or must successfully attain certification within 6 (six) months of employment as a Pathology Assistant to retain employment at the DMCUL.

Facility Description

DMC University Laboratories (DMCUL) is a regional, integrated laboratory system providing services to the eight hospitals of Detroit Medical Center. DMC University Laboratories evolved in 1993 and is comprised of Core Laboratories, Specialty Laboratories, two rapid response hospital laboratories, Centralized Stat Lab, Centralized Blood Bank Lab, and full service outreach infrastructure which includes patient service centers, remote ambulatory laboratories, marketing staff, courier system and billing department. The DMC University Laboratories service area covers the entire Southeast Michigan market, and is growing at a rapid pace with the following outstanding features: Test menu of over 1,000 tests, which includes high end specialty tests. Less than 1% of our tests are sent to outside reference laboratories. Provide reference laboratory services to many of the other healthcare systems in Southeastern Michigan and several out of state facilities.

EEO Statement

Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by an applicantโ€™s or employeeโ€™s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Tenet will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship.

Tenet participates in the E-Verify program. Follow the link below for additional information.

E-Verify: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

The employment practices of Tenet Healthcare and its companies comply with all applicable laws and regulations

Job: Lab Services Primary Location: Detroit, Michigan Facility: DMC University Laboratories, Inc. Job Type: PRN Shift Type: Day

Employment practices will not be influenced or affected by an applicantโ€™s or employeeโ€™s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other legally protected status. Tenet will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship.
Tenet participates in the E-Verify program. Follow the link below for additional information.
E-Verify: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify
The employment practices of Tenet Healthcare and its companies comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

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