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Forensic Autopsy Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Autopsy Assistant information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$31

$56

How much do forensic autopsy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic autopsy assistant in Tennessee is $31.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $42.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic autopsy assistant?

A Forensic Autopsy Assistant supports forensic pathologists in performing autopsies by preparing the examination area, handling and documenting evidence, and assisting with specimen collection. They help with cleaning and maintaining autopsy tools and ensure compliance with safety and legal protocols. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of anatomy, and the ability to work in sensitive environments involving deceased individuals.

What does a forensic autopsy assistant do?

A typical day for a Forensic Autopsy Assistant involves preparing the autopsy suite, assisting forensic pathologists during examinations, collecting and documenting biological samples, and ensuring compliance with confidentiality and evidence chain-of-custody procedures. You will regularly collaborate with medical examiners, law enforcement personnel, and sometimes families or legal representatives. Efficient communication and organizational skills are vital as you help maintain detailed records and assist in post-autopsy clean-up and specimen storage. This collaborative, detail-oriented environment provides firsthand experience in forensic investigations and can open doors to advanced roles in pathology or crime labs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic autopsy assistant?

To thrive as a Forensic Autopsy Assistant, you need knowledge of human anatomy, attention to detail, and a background in laboratory or mortuary science, often supported by relevant certifications or training. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, data entry systems, and safety protocols such as OSHA and bloodborne pathogen standards is important. Teamwork, professionalism, strong communication, and the ability to handle sensitive situations make someone stand out in this field. These skills and qualities ensure accurate evidence collection, adherence to legal standards, and effective collaboration within forensic pathology teams.

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

The most popular types of Forensic Autopsy jobs in Tennessee are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Autopsy Assistant jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Autopsy Assistant jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Autopsy Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,956 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Description
Academic Neuropathologist
Vanderbilt Medical Laboratories and the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center is seeking a board eligible/board certified anatomic surgical pathologist with subspecialty fellowship training in Neuropathology. Candidates need to be eligible for medical licensure in the state of Tennessee. Depending on qualifications and experience, candidates could be eligible for appointment as an Assistant or Associate Professor on the Clinician Educator track. Our department focuses on its patients and people, with distinguished faculty, excellent training programs and a supportive atmosphere. These make Vanderbilt Medical Laboratories an excellent place to thrive as an academic pathologist.
Located in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (1,019 beds) is one of the nation's leading research and teaching institutions with undergraduate medical programs contiguous on the same campus. VUMC is experiencing expansion in many areas with a top 20 cancer center, multifaceted organ and stem cell transplant programs, expanding educational programs, and myriad opportunities for clinical, translational, and basic science research. Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is a growing and vibrant, cosmopolitan area with a population exceeding 1 million, diverse entertainment, excellent schools, and ready access to outdoor activities.
Qualifications
The successful candidate is a high-performing, team-focused individual with strong communication skills and a commitment to excellent patient care as well as to colleagues and trainees in the department and institution. Experience in general diagnostic surgical neuropathology, muscle and nerve biopsy interpretation, and eye biopsy interpretation is a requirement. Expertise in autopsy neuropathology, including dementia diagnosis and forensic analysis, is also desired.
Application Instructions
Applicants are requested to send a C.V., a list of at least 3 references, and a letter of interest to:
For additional information regarding the department and the hospitals see:
Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology: https://www.vumc.org/pmi/
Vanderbilt University Medical Center: https://www.vumc.org

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