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Entry Level Forensic Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tufts Medicine

$101K - $128K/yr

... forensic purposes. An entry level role that applies broad theoretical job knowledge typically ... Job Overview This position works under the direction and supervision of a pathologist, assisting in ...

University of New Mexico

Accessioning Tech

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$19 - $24.77/hr

The OMI, which is a special program within the Department of Pathology, determines the cause and ... If you are looking for a great entry level position with great benefits on a great team, this is ...

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Entry Level Forensic Pathologist information

See salary details

$41.5K

$219.3K

$320K

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

As of Sep 7, 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?

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.

Can you become an entry level forensic pathologist without going to medical school?

No, becoming an entry level forensic pathologist requires completing medical school and obtaining a medical license, as the role involves diagnosing causes of death through autopsies. After medical school, additional training in pathology and forensic medicine is necessary before qualifying for entry-level positions in forensic pathology.

How hard is it to get into entry level forensic pathology?

Entry level forensic pathology positions are highly competitive due to the specialized nature of the field. Candidates typically need a medical degree, completion of a pathology residency, and often a forensic pathology fellowship, along with board certification, which can make entry challenging for new professionals.

Where to start to become an entry level forensic pathologist?

To become an entry-level forensic pathologist, you need to complete a bachelor's degree, followed by a medical degree (MD or DO), and then a residency in pathology. Afterward, a fellowship in forensic pathology is required, along with obtaining medical licensure and board certification in pathology and forensic pathology. Developing skills in anatomy, pathology, and forensic science is essential for entry into this field.
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Entry Level Forensic Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forensic Pathologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $219,325 per year, or $105.4 per hour.

Pathologists' Assistant

Tufts Medicine

On-site

$101K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Tufts Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on a broad range of diagnostic and clinical testing services provided to support patient care, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of health conditions within a lab setting. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Pathology/Histology duties: Performs basic and applied research and assist with research regarding the cause and effect of diseases. Responsibilities may also include exams of body tissue for diagnostics/forensic purposes. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Pathology/Histology duties: Performs basic and applied research and assist with research regarding the cause and effect of diseases. Responsibilities may also include exams of body tissue for diagnostics/forensic purposes. An entry level role that applies broad theoretical job knowledge typically obtained through advanced education. May require the following proficiency: work is closely supervised, problems faced are not typically difficult or complex, and explains facts, policies and practices related to job area.

Job Overview

This position works under the direction and supervision of a pathologist, assisting in the preparation, examination, and preservation of pathological specimens, and performing autopsies.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Pathology or related biological science.

2. Certified Pathologist's Assistant from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) required within six (6) months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Master's degree in Pathology or related biological science.

2. Experience in Pathology.

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Prepare, gross (exam with the naked eye), and dissect surgical and autopsy specimens.

2. Assist with forensic, medicolegal, and hospital autopsies.

3. Summarize patient medical records and prepare autopsy reports.

4. Prepare tissue for pathological examination and testing, including photography of specimens.

5. Complete surgical pathology protocol reports and data, file reports, photographic and microscopic slides, specimen coding and billing code entry.

6. Perform proper maintenance of equipment, obtain provision of adequate supplies, clean the surgical pathology suite.

7. Instruct pathology residents/fellows, pathologists' assistant students, and other pathology lab personnel.

8. Participate in research.

9. Procure samples for biospecimen banking.

Physical Requirements:

1. Work requires standing or walking for up to half of the day and lifting or pushing of weights up to 200 pounds.

2. Frequent exposure to human waste, and noxious gases and odors.

3. Exposure to infectious materials and dangerous bacterial and viral agents. Exposure to fumes which may cause minor illnesses.

4. Contact with physicians, house staff, funeral homes, and other hospitals.

Skills & Abilities:

1. Knowledge of human anatomy and Physiology.

2. Attention to detail skills.

3. Excellent communication skills.

4. Excellent analytical skills.

At Tufts Medicine, we want every individual to feel valued for the skills and experience they bring. Our compensation philosophy is designed to offer fair, competitive pay that attracts, retains, and motivates highly talented individuals, while rewarding the important work you do every day.

The base pay ranges reflect the minimum qualifications for the role. Individual offers are determined using a comprehensive approach that considers relevant experience, certifications, education, skills, and internal equity to ensure compensation is fair, consistent, and aligned with our business goals.

Beyond base pay, Tufts Medicine provides a comprehensive Total Rewards package that supports your health, financial security, and career growth-one of the many ways we invest in you so you can thrive both at work and outside of it.

Pay Range:

$101,084.26 - $128,878.21

based on full-time equivalent

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