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Autopsy Tech Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Autopsy Tech information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$29

$58

How much do autopsy tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for autopsy tech in Raleigh, NC is $29.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.43 and $38.57 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 Raleigh, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Autopsy Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Autopsy Tech jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Autopsy Tech jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Autopsy Tech job openings:

Autopsy Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autopsy Tech job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,400 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Histotechnologist Senior/ Histology Tech Senior (Hybrid Posting) - Rex Anatomic Pathology

UNC HEALTH

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$28.87 - $41.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

UNC Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 321 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

421st of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Your passion belongs at UNC Health. Join more than 56,000 teammates working together to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve across North Carolina.
Summary:
This hybrid posting recruits for either a Histotechnologist Senior or a Histology Tech Sr depending on candidate qualifications. The role performs a variety of specialized medical tissue testing procedures, including preparation and analysis of tissue samples that enable pathologists to determine diagnosis, disease progression, and treatment planning. This position also serves as a technical resource, supports workflow coordination, assists with scheduling and operational oversight, and acts as a backup to the supervisor as needed.
Responsibilities:
  1. Investigate and resolve issues involving equipment, test results, specimens, and workflow
  2. Monitor daily operations within assigned laboratory section or work area
  3. Participate in laboratory teams, projects, and special assignments
  4. Perform routine and complex histology procedures including tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, and slide preparation across surgical pathology, autopsy, cytology, hematology, and research areas
  5. Perform and document quality control and equipment maintenance activities
  6. Provide leadership, guidance, and support to team members
  7. Serve as a technical resource to staff, students, and providers
  8. Report and review test results; consult with healthcare providers as needed
  9. Ensure accuracy of results and timely correction of errors
  10. Serve as a Lead Technologist or Program Manager in areas such as quality, education, competency, safety, or equipment management
  11. Train new employees and assist in teaching Clinical Laboratory Science students and Pathology residents

Other Information
Histotechnologist Senior Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Chemistry, or a Biological Science
  • Certification as HTL (ASCP) by the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC)

Experience Requirements:
  • If completion of a NAACLS-accredited histology program: minimum 2 years of relevant laboratory experience
  • If degree in biological or chemical science: minimum 3 years of relevant laboratory experience

Additional Acceptable Qualifications:
  • HT (ASCP) with 5 years of direct immunohistochemistry experience, or
  • Electron Microscopy (EM) certification (Certification #1 or #2)

Histology Tech Sr Qualifications
  • Associate's degree in biological, chemical, or related science (with required CLIA coursework), or completion of a NAACLS-accredited histotechnician program
  • Certification as HT (ASCP) or HTL (ASCP) by the ASCP Board of Certification (BOC)

Experience Requirements:
  • Minimum 2 years of direct immunohistochemistry experience, or
  • Electron Microscopy certification through the Microscopy Society of America

Job Details
Legal Employer: NCHEALTH
Entity: UNC REX Healthcare
Organization Unit: Rex Anatomic Pathology
Work Type: Full Time
Standard Hours Per Week: 40.00
Histotechnologist Sr Salary Range: $28.87 - $41.50 per hour (Hiring Range)
Histology Tech Sr Salary Range: $26.85 - $38.60 per hour (Hiring Range)
Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity
Work Assignment Type: Onsite
Work Schedule: Night Job
Location of Job: US:NC:Raleigh
Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No
This position is employed by NC Health (Rex Healthcare, Inc., d/b/a NC Health), a private, fully-owned subsidiary of UNC Heath Care System. This is not a State employed position.
Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran or political affiliation.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

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