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Autopsy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stanislaus County

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

This 9,000 square foot facility has a large main autopsy room with advanced filtration and odor mitigation. It includes hospital grade lighting with a high definition camera system. In addition, we ...

Aquent

Decedent Affairs Coordinator

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$53.04 - $57.69/hr

Offer expert consultation on autopsy procedures, disposition options, and social services. * Conduct thorough next-of-kin searches for patients without listed contacts, notify families, and ...

City of Hope

Pathologists' Assistant I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$76.38/hr

Your responsibilities include receiving, examining, and processing specimens for diagnosis, as well as assisting in autopsy prosection and photography. You'll also prepare specimens for fixation and ...

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All JobsAutopsy JobsAutopsy Jobs in California

Autopsy information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$87.8K

$131.3K

How much do autopsy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for autopsy in California is $87,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,100.00 and $98,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is a thorough medical examination of a body after death to determine the cause of death and evaluate any disease or injury that may be present. It is typically performed by a forensic pathologist or medical examiner. Autopsies can be ordered by legal authorities in cases of unexpected, suspicious, or unexplained deaths, or requested by families for clarification. The findings from an autopsy can provide valuable information for legal investigations, medical research, and family closure.

What are the qualifications to get an autopsy job?

The duties and responsibilities of a clinical or forensic autopsy technician are to prepare for the autopsy, examine a body, and determine the cause of death. The qualifications that you need to get an autopsy job include education, investigative skills, and knowledge of autopsy procedures and tools. A forensic pathologist is a doctor (M.D.) who has completed a residency or fellowship in forensics. A forensic autopsy technician needs at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field. You can choose to continue to a master’s degree or pursue professional certification from the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI). You may also pursue specialties such as forensic DNA or toxicology.

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

To thrive as an Autopsy Technician, you need a background in biological sciences, anatomical knowledge, and a relevant associate or bachelor's degree, often supplemented by specialized training in pathology or mortuary science. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, specimen handling protocols, and digital record-keeping systems is typically required. Attention to detail, discretion, strong communication, and the ability to handle sensitive situations are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate post-mortem examinations, maintain legal and ethical standards, and support the effective functioning of forensic investigations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in autopsy services?

Professionals in autopsy services often encounter emotionally challenging situations, as they regularly work with deceased individuals and grieving families. The role requires meticulous attention to detail, as accurate documentation and analysis are critical for determining causes of death. Additionally, autopsy technicians and pathologists must adhere to strict safety and biohazard protocols, and they often collaborate closely with law enforcement and medical teams. Balancing these responsibilities while maintaining professionalism and emotional resilience is a common challenge in this field.

What is the difference between Autopsy vs Forensic Pathologist?

AspectAutopsyForensic Pathologist
Required CredentialsMedical degree, autopsy trainingMedical degree, pathology residency, forensic certification
Work EnvironmentMedical examiner's office, hospitalsCrime labs, medical examiner's offices, hospitals
Industry UsageMedical, legal, death investigationsLegal cases, criminal investigations, death scene analysis

Autopsy is a procedure performed to examine a deceased individual, often conducted by medical professionals with specialized training. A Forensic Pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in determining cause of death through autopsies within the context of legal investigations. While autopsies are a core part of a forensic pathologist's work, the latter's role encompasses broader responsibilities including case analysis, report writing, and courtroom testimony.

How do I get into doing autopsy?

To become an autopsy technician or pathologist assistant, you typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, anatomy, or a related field, followed by specialized training or certification in forensic pathology or autopsy procedures. For pathologists, completing medical school, a residency in pathology, and obtaining state licensure are required; this role often involves working in a medical examiner's or coroner's office. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of human anatomy, and familiarity with autopsy tools are essential skills for this career.

What career performs autopsies?

A forensic pathologist, also known as a medical examiner or coroner, is a medical doctor trained to perform autopsies to determine causes of death. They typically hold a medical degree, complete specialized training in pathology, and work in hospitals, morgues, or forensic laboratories. Certification by relevant medical boards is often required for this role.
More about Autopsy jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Autopsy jobs in California?

The most popular types of Autopsy jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Autopsy jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Autopsy jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Autopsy jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Autopsy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Autopsy job openings:

Autopsy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autopsy job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,841 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Autopsy Specialist-26482008

San Diego, CA • On-site

County of San Diego, CA
See more jobs at County of San Diego, CAexternal

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $65,166.40 - $80,142.40 Annually
Location : County of San Diego, CA
Job Type: Regular - Full time
Job Number: 26482008
Department: Medical Examiner, County
Division: Medical
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/8/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Job Summary
Forensic Autopsy Specialist
Are you interested in assisting with autopsies determining the causes of sudden, unexpected deaths? Don't let this opportunity pass you by - Apply Now!
Interviews will take place beginning the week of September 28 2026.
Job offers will take place beginning the week of October 5, 2026.
The Medical Examiner's Office has an immediate opening for a Forensic Autopsy Specialist. As a Forensic Autopsy Specialist, you will assist Deputy Medical Examiners with autopsies and accept, process, and release deceased persons.
Click to view the complete job description for Forensic Autopsy Specialist.
Interviews and Hiring Process:
Job offers for selected candidates will be made shortly after the interviews. Candidates should be prepared to immediately complete background paperwork, upon receipt of a job offer.
The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below. Please note that dates are approximate and are dependent upon the successful completion of each step of the process.
  • Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews.
  • Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results.
  • Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies.
Minimum Qualifications:
1) Successful completion of an accredited Pathologists Assistant Training Program, OR,
2) An associate's of science degree or higher in Mortuary Science or Human Science (e.g. biology, nursing, medical/surgical assisting, emergency medicine, anatomy, physiology), or related field, AND one of the following:
  1. A current, valid California Embalmer's License; OR,
  2. One (1) year full-time work experience working with a medical examiner/coroner's office, assisting with autopsies, which involved frequent direct contact with deceased persons, OR,
  3. One (1) year full-time specialized applicable experience which demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities above (e.g., occupations such as medical technicians, medical laboratory technicians, hospital technicians or mortuary technicians that include the handling of human remains).

Note: Work experience must include developing knowledge of human anatomy, skills in identifying or using surgical instruments, and knowledge of aseptic techniques.
Special Notes:
Working Conditions
Exposure to deceased persons, caustic chemicals and fumes, decomposed tissue, and noxious odors. Exposure to computers and X-ray equipment. May be required to work varied shifts (7am-5pm), holidays and weekends (7-3:30pm); no night shifts.
To learn more about working for the Medical Examiner's Office, please review video below:
Blind Applicant Screening
The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process helps contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire.
Evaluation Process:
Qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in the supplemental questionnaire. Please ensure all information is complete and accurate as the responses you provide on the supplemental application form will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system. If you are successful in the initial screening process your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provided is accurate and qualifying.
Accommodation:
Note: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis.
Condition of Employment:
As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position.
Strategic Plan:
The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our .
As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.
Veteran's Preference Policy
The County of San Diego offerspreferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego.
Military Skills Translator
Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help!
Disaster Service Workers
Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law.
The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.
Click here to see the Non-Management Benefits Summary
01
Please be sure to answer the following questions in a thorough, complete, and truthful manner, as your responses may be used to determine your overall score. Please note that if you are invited to a selection interview(s) by the department, your responses to the following questions may be subject to verification. Do you understand this information?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Have you successfully completed an accredited Pathologist Assistant Training Program? Proof of completion is required at the time of application.
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have an associate's of science degree or higher in Mortuary Science or Human Science (e.g. biology, nursing, medical/surgical assisting, emergency medicine, anatomy, physiology), or related field?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Which of the following best describes your experience? Check all that apply.
  • I have a current, valid California Embalmer's License.
  • I have one (1) or more years of full-time work experience working with a medical examiner/coroner's office, assisting with autopsies, which involved frequent direct contact with deceased persons.
  • I have one (1) or more years of full-time specialized applicable experience which demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities as indicated on the job description for Forensic Autopsy Specialist (e.g., occupations such as medical technicians, medical laboratory technicians, hospital technicians or mortuary technicians that include the handling of human remains).
  • None of the above.

05
This position requires exposure to deceased persons, caustic chemicals and fumes, decomposed tissue, and noxious odors. This position also requires exposure to computers and X-ray equipment.Are you willing to work in an environment as described above?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Please indicate your experience with X-rays:
  • No experience
  • Less than one (1) year of experience
  • One (1) year of experience
  • More than one (1) year of experience

07
Please indicate your experience working directly with patients/decedents:
  • No experience
  • Less than one (1) year of experience
  • One (1) year of experience
  • More than one (1) year of experience

08
Please indicate your experience collecting and preserving biological specimens or evidence:
  • No experience
  • Less than one (1) year of experience
  • One (1) year of experience
  • More than one (1) year of experience

09
Please indicate which agencies you have had direct contact with during the course of your duties.
  • Law Enforcement Agency
  • Medical Examiner/Coroner's Office
  • Hospital
  • Convalescent/Nursing Home
  • Mortuaries
  • Foreign Consulates
  • None of the above

10
How did you first hear about this job opportunity?
  • County of San Diego website
  • Careers in Government website
  • Cypress College/Fullerton College
  • County Employee
  • County Employee Resource Group - CSDFEA, SDCLA, etc.
  • CA Funeral Directors' Association website
  • Mana San Diego
  • National Funeral Director's Association (NFDA)
  • American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS)
  • Voice and Viewpoint
  • Linked In
  • Other

11
If you answered "Other" above, please indicate where you first heard about this job opportunity in the space below.
Required Question

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