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Entry Level Forensic Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autopsy Technician I

Golden, CO ยท On-site

$30 - $35/hr

This entry-level role offers a unique opportunity to support medicolegal death investigations while ... General responsibility is toassistthe contracted forensic pathologist with autopsiesin accordance ...

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Entry Level Forensic Pathologist information

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$41.5K

$219.3K

$320K

How much do entry level forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level forensic pathologist in the United States is $219,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $183,000.00 and $274,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Pathologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Forensic Pathologist, you need a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, completion of a pathology residency, and board eligibility or certification in forensic pathology. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, autopsy tools, and toxicology testing equipment is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help you excel in reporting findings and testifying in legal settings. These competencies ensure accurate cause-of-death determinations, uphold legal standards, and support the justice system effectively.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level forensic pathologists during their first year on the job?

Entry-level forensic pathologists often face challenges such as managing a high caseload while adapting to the fast-paced nature of death investigations. They must quickly develop strong communication skills to interact effectively with law enforcement, legal teams, and grieving families. Additionally, new professionals may need time to build confidence in performing autopsies independently and testifying in court. Support from experienced colleagues and ongoing training are essential for overcoming these initial hurdles and ensuring professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forensic Pathologist vs Forensic Toxicologist?

AspectEntry Level Forensic PathologistForensic Toxicologist
Required CredentialsMedical degree (MD), pathology residency, forensic pathology certificationDegree in toxicology, chemistry, or related field; often a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentMedical examiner offices, hospitals, morguesCrime labs, research institutions, government agencies
Industry UsageLegal investigations, death investigations, autopsiesDrug testing, poison detection, chemical analysis in forensic cases

While both roles are vital in forensic investigations, an Entry Level Forensic Pathologist primarily conducts autopsies and determines causes of death, requiring medical credentials. In contrast, a Forensic Toxicologist focuses on analyzing biological samples for toxins and drugs, often with a background in chemistry. Both careers work within forensic science but serve different functions in criminal investigations.

More about Entry Level Forensic Pathologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Forensic Pathologist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Forensic Pathologist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Pathologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $219,325 per year, or $105.4 per hour.
Autopsy Technician I

Autopsy Technician I

Jefferson County

Golden, CO โ€ข On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Posting Closes at 11:59PM on:

05/31/26

Division:

Coroner Division

Management Level:

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

29

Benefit Eligibility:

This position is eligible for Standard Benefits which includes dental, medical, and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays, retirement matching, wellness programs, and tuition reimbursement.

Description:

JeffersonCounty isseekinga detail-oriented and dedicatedForensic Autopsy Technicianto join the Coroner's Office. This entry-level role offers a unique opportunity to support medicolegal death investigations while gaining hands-on experience in forensic practices. Working under the guidance of the Senior Autopsy Technician and the leadership of the Chief Deputy Coroner and Coroner, this positionassiststhe forensic pathologist with both autopsy and non-autopsy procedures, including examinations, evisceration, and toxicology specimen collection. The ideal candidate will be committed to learning established protocols,maintainingstrict adherence to state and federal regulations, and contributing to the office's mission of deliveringaccurate, respectful, and legally sound death investigations.

SCHEDULE:

This position is in-person at the Jefferson County Coroner's Office.

COMPENSATION:

Hiring Range:$30.00-35.00USD Hourly

Compensation will bedeterminedbased on education,experienceand skills.

BENEFITS:

Jefferson County offers a generous benefits package that supports your personal and professional life. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off and holidays, including astarting bank of 40 hours of PTO for new hires; retirement matching; wellness programs; tuition reimbursement; flexible schedules; and more. For more information, clickherefor our Total Rewards summary.

About Jefferson County Coroner:

Many citizensdon'trealize that theCoroner'sresponsibilities extend far beyond the scene of death and the autopsy suite. We review thousands of pages of medical records each week. We work closely with hospice care professionals, law enforcement agencies and first responders, area funeraldirectorsand physicians.

Most important, we work closely and compassionately with more than a thousand families each year as they cope with the loss of a loved one. Often, our relationship with family members and friends may continue for months.

Find out more at:https://www.jeffco.us/232/About-Us

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • General responsibility is toassistthe contracted forensic pathologist with autopsiesin accordance withthe established department policies and procedures, safety, environmental, and infection standards. Other responsibilities may include other Technician Assistance requests.

  • Assistforensic pathologist during autopsy. Prepare and set up for autopsy. Ensure autopsy instruments, fixtures, and overall suite are clean and organized.Assistwith physical examination to include cleaning and preparing the body for evisceration, evidence collection, histology collection, toxicology draws, and cleaning and closing the body for release. Document autopsy with photographs. Document, package, and store all evidence, toxicology specimens, andpersonal propertycollected during the autopsy. Collect and package any specific requests by other agencies such as fingerprint cards, buccal swabs, DNA cards. Ensurepathologist isaware andgivespermission for collection and release. Label cassettes for histology and package and send them to theappropriate agency. Take X-rays if needed.

  • Update COHERO with autopsy information; preliminary findings, toxicology specimens, autopsy photographs, any other relevant documentation.

  • Review theCoheroStatus Board and Home Page for any Tech Assist requests. Tech Assist requests may include drawing toxicology and doing clean up photos on non-autopsy cases.

  • Prepare and package toxicology for dissemination to other agencies. Delivers packages to FedEx.

  • Followappropriate destruction/dispositionmethods for medications, toxicology, and specimens.Assistswith packaging and destruction process of medications. Packages and destroys toxicology,specimens, andmedical devices and tools.

  • Clean autopsy suite to include cleaning of supplies/tools and autopsy table along with surrounding area, mop floor, and start and finish laundry if needed.

  • Ensure supplies stay organized.

  • Follow up on any tasks for the day to ensure they are completed.

  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Research shows that women and other underrepresented and historically marginalized groups tend to apply only when they check every box in the posting. If you are reading this and hesitating to click "apply" for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! A true passion and excitement for making an impact is just as important as work experience.

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience:High School Diploma or GED

Education:A minimum of one year ormore ofproven and documented experience with autopsies or toxicology lab. Requires knowledge of anatomy, physiology and medicalterminology,and forensic pathology.

PreferredQualifications:

  • License/Certifications: Certification (D-ABMDI) with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators isrequiredwithin one year of hire.

  • Somecollegein biology or physical science;Associate's or Bachelor'sdegree in related fieldhighlypreferred.

  • Knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

Knowledge, skills, and attributes that would be beneficial and lead to success in this role include:

  • Superior interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

  • Capability to work with individuals, groups, and staff.

  • Work effectively on a team and in an independent environment.

  • Dedicated, committed, and reliable professional.

  • Strong attention to detail.

  • Thrive in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities and deadlines.

  • Collaboration with investigators and pathologists

  • Ability to handle stressful situations.

  • Self-motivated, displays proactivity, and takes initiative.

  • Have a positive, can-do attitude with great problem-solving skills.

Additional Job Information:

  • A valid Colorado driver's license is required for positions that drive on County Business in either a county or personal vehicle within30-daysof hire or beginning to serve as an intern or volunteer.

  • Offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion ofcriminal history, motor vehicle report, education verification, and/or referencesfor all positions.

Accommodations Statement:We encourage people with disabilities to apply and are committed to providing reasonableaccommodationsthroughout our hiring process. Forassistancewith applications, interviews, or other hiring-related accommodations, contactcareertalent@jeffco.us. Thiscontactis for accommodation requests only and cannot provide application status updates.

APPLICATION:

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

All applicants mustsubmitan online employment application by 11:59PM on the posted cut-off date. Follow this link to apply now:Jefferson County Colorado Career Opportunities

  • A resume and cover lettersubmittedwith your application is encouraged but will not substitute for the information requested on the application.

  • Current Jefferson County employees must apply through their employee profile in Workday.

  • In any materials yousubmit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Applications are reviewed for minimum qualifications listed in the qualifications section of the job bulletin, and applicants are contacted directly by the hiring team if selected. To view the status of your application, please log into yourcandidate portal.

For more details on the recruitment process, please visit:https://www.jeffco.us/1860/FAQs

Questions?Contact the Jefferson County Recruitment Team at 303-271-8420 orCareerTalent@Jeffco.us

Education:

Associate's Degree

Experience:

Work Experience: Minimum one year

Certifications:

Languages:

Category:

Enforcement & Protective Services