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Autopsy Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Host Forensics Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$131K - $149K/yr

EnCase, FTK, SIFT, X-Ways, Volatility, WireShark, Sleuth Kit/ Autopsy, Snort, Splunk or other EDR Tools (Crowdstrike, Carbon Black, Etc) * Proficiency with conducting all-source research Desired ...

EnCase, FTK, SIFT, X-Ways, Volatility, WireShark, Sleuth Kit/ Autopsy, Snort, Splunk or other EDR Tools (Crowdstrike, Carbon Black, Etc) * Proficiency with conducting all-source research Desired ...

Sleuth Kit/Autopsy * Splunk * Snort * Other EDR Tools (Crowdstrike, Carbon Black, Etc.) Desired Certifications * GCFA, GCFE, EnCE, CCE, CFCE, CISSP About Us For more than 20 years, NewGen ...

EnCase | AccessData FTK | Autopsy/Sleuth Kit | SIFT Workstation | Magnet Forensics | Similar industry-standard forensic tools Advanced Certifications: * Preferred certifications include: GCFA | GCFE ...

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Showing results 1-20

Autopsy information

See Virginia salary details

$49.1K

$88.2K

$131.9K

How much do autopsy jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for autopsy in Virginia is $88,243.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,400.00 and $98,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to do autopsies?

To perform autopsies, a forensic pathologist must complete a bachelor's degree, medical school, and a residency in pathology, followed by specialized training in forensic or anatomical pathology. Certification by a medical board is typically required, and strong skills in anatomy, pathology, and attention to detail are essential.

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 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.

How to become an autopsy worker?

To become an autopsy worker, typically one needs a background in forensic pathology, medicine, or a related field, often requiring a medical degree or specialized training in pathology. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and familiarity with autopsy procedures, anatomy, and laboratory tools is essential. Entry-level roles may involve assisting pathologists or working in morgues under supervision.

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.

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 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.

How much are autopsy people paid?

Autopsy technicians and pathologists typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Forensic pathologists with specialized training tend to have higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 per year. Salaries can also vary based on the employer, such as government agencies or private labs, and may include benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.

What career performs autopsies?

A forensic pathologist, also known as a medical examiner or coroner, performs autopsies to determine causes of death. They typically hold a medical degree, complete specialized training in pathology, and work in medical examiner's offices or hospitals. Autopsies require knowledge of anatomy, pathology, and the use of tools like scalpels and microscopes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Autopsy jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Autopsy jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Autopsy jobs in Virginia? For Autopsy jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Autopsy jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Autopsy job openings:
Infographic showing various Autopsy job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,243 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor

Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor

State of Virginia

Manassas, VA

$71K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states


Job description

Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor

Apply now Job no: 5107244
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Manassas, Virginia
Categories: Applied Sciences and Natural Resources

Title: Forensic Autopsy Services Supervisor

State Role Title: Laboratory & Research Spec II

Hiring Range: $71,000 - $80,000

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Virginia Department of Health

Location: CHIEF MEDICAL EXAMINER-NO

Agency Website: www.vdh.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Assists the Assistant Chief Medical Examiner (forensic pathologist) in the external and internal examination of deceased individuals. Recruits, supervises and trains forensic autopsy technician staff and provides general supervision in autopsy service activities. Admits and releases bodies in accordance with policies, procedures and regulations, and provides leadership and supervisory oversight to other forensic technicians and support staff. Other characteristic duties include weighing, measuring and photographing bodies for identification, inspecting bodies for abnormalities and notifying pathologist, radiography, assisting with initial incisions, removing and weighing of organs, opening the head, collecting and preserving all evidence such as bullets and broken knife blades as well as collecting and retaining tissue and body fluids. Regularly reviews work products of staff and prepares written reports essential for sudden, unexpected or violent deaths. Designs spreadsheets, composes correspondence, and oversees research/purchase of autopsy supplies/equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Considerable experience directly related to anthropology and remains processing
2. Knowledge of anatomy, physical evidence, chain of custody, confidentiality, universal precautions and OSHA
3. Forensic autopsy supervisory experience
4. Ability to write, document, and use computer software for data entry and writing
5. Ability to create and maintain spreadsheets and perform inventory control
6. Conduct standard and digital radiography for both human remains and dental identifications
7. Ability to lift heavy bodies; to traverse unstable grounds and assist with recovery of human remains; ability to stand for long periods of time
8. Ability to effectively communicate and promote good relations among personnel and other agencies

Additional Considerations

1. Experience/training in physical or forensic anthropology, forensic science, biology or anatomy

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

VDH accepts only on-line applications. Faxed, mailed, or e-mailed applications will not be considered. Applications are accepted until 11:55 p.m. on the job closing date. Applications and/or resumes should include relevant work history which indicates your qualications for this position. Supplemental questions are encouraged to be answered in a comprehensive manner and reference any pertinent knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as any previous experience that relates to the position.
Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of a state and federal criminal history background check and the Department of Social Service's Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry check, U.S. HHSIG Exclusion List check, employment reference check and E-Verify. Other nancial, credit, driving, background checks or completion of Statement of Economic Interests may be required for certain positions.
It is the policy of the Commonwealth and VDH that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. VDH employees have a shared Code of Ethics, which can be found in the bottom banner of our website: www.vdh.virginia.gov.
If you have been affected by DHRM Policy 1.30 layoff and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), you must submit the card before the closing date for this position. The Card may be submitted with the state application as an attachment.
As a V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer VDH Welcomes Veterans to apply!

Contact Information

Name: Vontrell Hodges

Phone: 804-461-7605

Email: Vontrell.Hodges@vdh.virginia,gov

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 10 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 29 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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