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Forensic Autopsy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Pathologist

Modesto, CA · On-site

$175.74 - $263.60/hr

In addition, we have a separate isolation autopsy room and another dedicated operating room for ... The Forensic Pathologist is a single position assigned to the Sheriff's Office and performs related ...

Experience with malware analysis, digital forensics, and intrusion detection. * Experience using tools such as FTK, Wireshark, Autopsy, or similar. * Experience developing code with Python, Lua, C/C ...

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Forensic Autopsy information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$60.2K

$105.6K

How much do forensic autopsy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic autopsy in California is $60,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,900.00 and $71,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic autopsy?

A forensic autopsy is a thorough medical examination of a body conducted by a forensic pathologist to determine the cause and manner of death, particularly in cases of sudden, unexplained, or suspicious deaths. It involves both external and internal examinations, collecting evidence, and documenting findings that may be crucial for legal investigations. Forensic autopsies often aid in criminal investigations and court proceedings by providing scientific information about how and why a person died.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic autopsy technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Forensic Autopsy Technician, you need a background in biology or forensic science, anatomical knowledge, and relevant certifications such as those in forensic pathology assistance. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, digital imaging tools, and evidence management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills are crucial soft skills for handling sensitive information and working within multidisciplinary teams. These abilities ensure accurate and respectful handling of evidence, supporting legal investigations and public health outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in forensic autopsy roles?

Professionals in forensic autopsy roles often encounter emotionally challenging situations, as they work closely with deceased individuals and may be exposed to traumatic cases. Additionally, they must maintain meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in documenting findings and handling evidence, as their work is crucial in legal investigations. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal teams, and other medical professionals is frequent, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to explain complex medical information clearly. Managing a variable workload and adapting to unexpected cases are also common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Forensic Autopsy vs Medical Examiner?

AspectForensic AutopsyMedical Examiner
CredentialsMedical degree, pathology license, forensic trainingMedical degree, often pathology license, forensic or pathology training
Work EnvironmentAutopsy rooms, morgues, crime labsCoroner's office, morgues, crime scenes
RolePerforming detailed autopsies to determine cause of deathOverseeing death investigations, including autopsies

While both forensic autopsists and medical examiners perform autopsies to determine causes of death, forensic autopsists focus primarily on conducting detailed autopsies, whereas medical examiners oversee death investigations and may perform or supervise autopsies. Both roles require medical credentials and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and authority.

How to become a forensic autopsy?

To become a forensic autopsy professional, one typically needs to complete a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or a related field, followed by medical school to become a licensed physician. Afterward, a residency in pathology and specialized training in forensic or forensic pathology is required, along with certification from relevant medical boards. Strong skills in anatomy, pathology, and attention to detail are essential for this role.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Forensic Autopsy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forensic Autopsy job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Autopsy job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,212 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Forensic Autopsy Specialist-26482008

County of San Diego

San Diego, CA

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary Forensic Autopsy Specialist Are you interested in assisting with autopsies determining the causes of sudden, unexpected deaths. Don't let this opportunity pass you by - Apply Now. Interviews will take place beginning the week of September 28 2026.

Job offers will take place beginning the week of October 5, 2026. The Medical Examiner's Office has an immediate opening for a Forensic Autopsy Specialist. As a Forensic Autopsy Specialist, you will assist Deputy Medical Examiners with autopsies and accept, process, and release deceased persons.

Click here to view the complete job description for Forensic Autopsy Specialist. Interviews and Hiring Process: Job offers for selected candidates will be made shortly after the interviews. Candidates should be prepared to immediately complete background paperwork, upon receipt of a job offer.

The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below. Please note that dates are approximate and are dependent upon the successful completion of each step of the process. Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews.

Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date. If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies.

Minimum Qualifications: 1) Successful completion of an accredited Pathologists Assistant Training Program, OR, 2) An associate's of science degree or higher in Mortuary Science or Human Science (e.g. biology, nursing, medical/surgical assisting, emergency medicine, anatomy, physiology), or related field, AND one of the following: A current, valid California Embalmer's License; OR, One (1) year full-time work experience working with a medical examiner/coroner's office, assisting with autopsies, which involved frequent direct contact with deceased persons, OR, One (1) year full-time specialized applicable experience which demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities above (e.g., occupations such as medical technicians, medical laboratory technicians, hospital technicians or mortuary technicians that include the handling of human remains). Note: Work experience must include developing knowledge of human anatomy, skills in identifying or using surgical instruments, and knowledge of aseptic techniques

Special Notes: Working Conditions Exposure to deceased persons, caustic chemicals and fumes, decomposed tissue, and noxious odors. Exposure to computers and X-ray equipment. May be required to work varied shifts (7am-5pm), holidays and weekends (7-3:30pm); no night shifts.

To learn more about working for the Medical Examiner's Office, please review video below: Blind Applicant Screening The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, hides a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race.

This process helps contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of the application Work History and/or supplemental questionnaire. Evaluation Process: Qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based on scores received during the evaluation of information contained in the supplemental questionnaire. Please ensure all information is complete and accurate as the responses you provide on the supplemental application form will be reviewed using an automated evaluation system.

If you are successful in the initial screening process your application will be reviewed individually to confirm that the information you provided is accurate and qualifying. Accommodation: Note: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of a job, on a case-by-case basis. Condition of Employment: As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment.

Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Strategic Plan: The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of: a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include: integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability.

Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Click here for more information on our Strategic Plan (sandiegocounty.gov)

As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization.

Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans. Veteran's Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience.

This tool can help. Disaster Service Workers Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district.

Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law. The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.


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