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Autopsy Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

Pathology Assistant

Durham, NC · On-site

Summary Assist in performance of autopsy and surgical pathology services. Work independently when performing professional duties associated with the preparation, performance, and completion of ...

Duke Health

Cytopathology Opportunity

Durham, NC · On-site

Participation in our autopsy service. Diagnostic responsibilities for the cytopathologist include the full range of exfoliative cytology and fine needle aspiration biopsies, including pathologist ...

Duke Health

Cytopathology Opportunity

Durham, NC

Participation in our autopsy service. Diagnostic responsibilities for the cytopathologist include the full range of exfoliative cytology and fine needle aspiration biopsies, including pathologist ...

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All JobsAutopsy JobsAutopsy Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Autopsy information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$48.1K

$86.5K

$129.3K

How much do autopsy jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for autopsy in Raleigh, NC is $86,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $96,700.00 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.
More about Autopsy jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Autopsy jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Autopsy jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
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What job categories do people searching Autopsy jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Autopsy jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Autopsy jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Autopsy job openings:
Autopsy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autopsy job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% As Needed, and 83% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $86,522 per year, or $41.6 per hour.
Pathology Assistant

Pathology Assistant

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

434th of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

At Duke Health, we're driven by a commitment to compassionate care that changes the lives of patients, their loved ones, and the greater community. No matter where your talents lie, join us and discover how we can advance health together.

Duke University Health System Clinical Laboratories

Pursue your passion for caring and innovation as a team member in the state-of-the-art Duke Health laboratories. Duke Health laboratories are College of American Pathologists accredited and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments certified. The multidisciplinary team is committed to serving the rare and complex testing needs of Duke Health patients by providing timely and accurate results, educating the next generation of laboratorians, scientists and physicians, and researching and developing the cutting-edge diagnostics of tomorrow.

Summary


Assist in performance of autopsy and surgical pathology services. Work independently when performing professional duties associated with the preparation, performance, and completion of autopsies, and examination and/or preparations of the surgical pathology specimens, with general supervision of pathologist.

Work Performed
  • Select and identify tissue for microscopic study; determine proper fixative solutions in which tissue will be maintained.
  • Triage specimen received from surgery; dictate gross findings on selected specimen using appropriate terminology; refer tissue sections for microscopic review by Pathologist or Resident.
  • Maintain records of surgical pathology specimen dissections and dictation; assist in the compilation of reports for surgical pathology; label and store gross tissue specimen.
  • Perform specialized procedures such as frozen sections and decalcification; maintain and coordinate specimen and records for specialized procedures using appropriate protocols; submit request for special histologic procedures and special stains when appropriate.
  • Photograph specimen samples as appropriate for use in instruction and documentation.
  • Perform photomicroscopy on cases considered for interdepartmental conferences or for teaching purposes; maintain complete and accurate records of all gross and microscopic photographs.
  • Assist pathologist with eviscerations, gross anatomic dissection, and in obtaining appropriate sections for microscopic examination; assist in training of techniques and procedures to staff interns and residents.
  • Remove organs, portions of bone, or other samples of tissues for any specialized study or research; collect special materials for toxicological, viral and bacteriological assays.
  • Maintain records; file x-rays; maintain facilities; label and store gross tissue obtained during autopsy; monitor and order supplies.
  • Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Basic knowledge of human anatomy, macrosurgical techniques, general laboratory skills.
  • Understanding of safety and infection control requirements of position.
  • Demonstrated ability to obtain and prepare tissue for evaluation, provide assistance to pathologists, in a timely and quality manner.
  • Proficiency in preparing and maintaining records, use of electronic communications tools and software.
Minimum QualificationsEducation

Bachelor's or master's degree from an accredited Pathologist Assistant program. Minimal educational or experience requirements may be modified on a case-bycase basis at the discretion of the CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment) director if minimal CLIA requirements are met by the employeefor the tasks being performed

Experience

N/A

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications

Certification by the American Association of Pathologist Assistants within 12 months of hire.


Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.


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About Duke University

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Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US

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