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Forensic Medical Examiner Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Medical Examiner information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$36.9K

$59.3K

$104K

How much do forensic medical examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic medical examiner in Raleigh, NC is $59,307.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,200.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic medical examiner do?

A Forensic Medical Examiner is a specialized physician who investigates deaths that happen under unusual or suspicious circumstances. They perform autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death, collect medical evidence, and may testify in court as expert witnesses. Their work is vital in criminal investigations, helping law enforcement understand how and why a person died. Forensic Medical Examiners also work closely with other forensic scientists and legal professionals to ensure justice and public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic medical examiner?

To thrive as a Forensic Medical Examiner, you need a Doctor of Medicine (MD or DO) degree, board certification in pathology, and specialized training in forensic pathology. Expertise in using autopsy tools, toxicology analysis systems, and case management software is crucial for accurately determining causes of death. Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure thorough, unbiased investigations and clear testimony in legal proceedings, which are essential for justice and public safety.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by forensic medical examiners when working on medico-legal cases?

Forensic medical examiners often encounter the challenge of working under tight deadlines while ensuring the accuracy and integrity of their findings, as their reports may become key evidence in legal proceedings. They must also be prepared to testify in court, sometimes facing rigorous cross-examination by legal professionals. Additionally, the role can be emotionally demanding, as it involves examining deceased individuals under sometimes distressing circumstances. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other forensic specialists is frequent and essential for thorough investigations.

What is the difference between Forensic Medical Examiner vs Medical Examiner?

AspectForensic Medical ExaminerMedical Examiner
CredentialsMedical degree, forensic pathology certificationMedical degree, often forensic pathology certification
Work EnvironmentCoroner's office, morgue, crime scenesCoroner's office, hospital, morgue
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labsCounty government, law enforcement
Primary RoleDetermine cause of death in suspicious casesDetermine cause of death, oversee autopsies

Both Forensic Medical Examiners and Medical Examiners have similar medical credentials and work in forensic settings. However, Forensic Medical Examiners often focus more on forensic investigations and crime scene analysis, while Medical Examiners may have broader roles in death investigations within county agencies.

Are forensic medical examiners in demand?

Forensic medical examiners are in steady demand due to the need for medical expertise in death investigations and legal cases. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as forensic science and criminal justice systems expand, requiring specialized training and certification. This role often involves working in medical examiner offices, hospitals, or law enforcement agencies.

How do I become a forensic medical examiner?

To become a forensic medical examiner, you typically need to complete a medical degree, obtain a license to practice medicine, and complete a residency in pathology or forensic medicine. Additional training or certification in forensic pathology is often required, and strong skills in anatomy, pathology, and investigation are essential for the role.

How long does it take to be a forensic medical examiner?

Becoming a forensic medical examiner typically requires completing a bachelor's degree, followed by medical school to earn an MD or DO degree, which takes about four years. After medical school, candidates must complete a residency in pathology or forensic pathology, usually lasting three to four years, and may pursue board certification, totaling approximately 10-12 years of education and training.

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Medical Examiner jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Forensic Medical Examiner jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Medical Examiner jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Medical Examiner jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Forensic Medical Examiner jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Forensic Medical Examiner job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Medical Examiner job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,307 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Forensic Mental health Nurse Practitioner NIABH

Elwyn

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

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


Elwyn rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 247 rated social care providers


Job description

Job Description
Job Description

Overview

Join a Team That Changes Lives

For more than 170 years, Elwyn has been leading the way in supporting children, teens, and adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health challenges. As a mission-driven nonprofit, we’re here to create real change – helping people lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.

Now, we’re looking for passionate team members to join us. Here, your work will change lives – including your own. You’ll make an impact every day, find purpose in what you do, and grow in a career that truly matters.

At Elwyn, we take care of you while you care for others. We offer:

  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision Benefit Packages
  • Earned Wage Access/On-Demand Pay
  • Paid On-the-Job Training
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Career Advancement Opportunities and Growth
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Retirement Savings Plan

Join us and be a part of something bigger. Apply today.


Responsibilities

The Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is responsible for providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management services to individuals housed within the County Detention Center. The PMHNP delivers evidence-based psychiatric care in collaboration with correctional staff, medical providers, nursing personnel, behavioral health clinicians, and community partners to promote safety, stabilization, and continuity of care.
The PMHNP ensures that psychiatric services are delivered in accordance with applicable federal and state laws, correctional healthcare standards (NCCHC and ACA where applicable), organizational policies, and accepted standards of psychiatric practice.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Clinical Care
  • Conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, mental status examinations, and diagnostic assessments for incarcerated individuals.
  • Diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders, including serious mental illness, co-occurring substance use disorders, trauma-related disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and neurocognitive conditions.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor individualized psychiatric treatment plans.
  • Prescribe, adjust, and monitor psychotropic medications utilizing evidence-based practices.
  • Evaluate medication effectiveness, adverse reactions, medication adherence, and potential drug interactions.
  • Order and interpret laboratory testing and diagnostic studies necessary for medication monitoring and treatment.
  • Monitor individuals receiving medications requiring specialized laboratory surveillance (e.g., lithium valproic acid, carbamazepine, clozapine where applicable).
  • Assess individuals for psychiatric emergencies, including suicide risk, self-injurious behavior, acute psychosis, severe withdrawal syndromes, and behavioral decompensation.
  • Provide timely intervention and treatment recommendations during psychiatric crises.
  • Participate in suicide prevention, suicide watch, and special management housing reviews consistent with facility policies.
  • Evaluate individuals placed in restrictive housing when behavioral health concerns are identified. Medication Management
  • Initiate, continue, modify, and discontinue psychiatric medications as clinically indicated.
  • Ensure appropriate monitoring of controlled substances and medications with abuse potential.
  • Review medication administration records and collaborate with nursing staff regarding medication compliance and side effects.
  • Complete medication renewals and prescription refills in a timely manner.
  • Collaboration
  • Collaborate with physicians, nurses, psychologists, licensed clinicians, substance use counselors, correctional officers, and detention administration to coordinate patient care.
  • Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.
  • Consult with medical providers regarding medical conditions that impact psychiatric treatment.
  • Provide clinical consultation to behavioral health and nursing staff regarding psychiatric care.
  • Communicate treatment recommendations to appropriate correctional staff while maintaining confidentiality consistent with HIPAA and applicable correctional regulations.
  • Intake and Ongoing Care
  • Complete psychiatric evaluations for newly admitted detainees referred through intake screening or medical triage.
  • Evaluate individuals identified as high-risk due to suicide risk, acute mental illness, intoxication, withdrawal, or cognitive impairment.
  • Conduct scheduled psychiatric follow-up appointments based upon clinical need.
  • Participate in chronic mental health clinics for individuals requiring ongoing psychiatric treatment.
  • Documentation
  • Complete all psychiatric evaluations, progress notes, treatment plans, medication documentation, and clinical records within established timeframes.
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic health record in accordance with organizational policies and correctional healthcare standards.
  • Document informed consent for medications when applicable.
  • Continuity of Care
  • Coordinate psychiatric care during admission, housing transfers, hospitalization, and release planning.
  • Assist in discharge planning by collaborating with community behavioral health providers when appropriate.
  • Support continuity of psychiatric medications upon release in accordance with facility policies.
  • Quality Improvement and Compliance
  • Maintain current licensure, DEA registration, controlled substance registration, and required certifications.
  • Participate in peer review, quality improvement initiatives, utilization review, and clinical audits.
  • Maintain compliance with NCCHC, ACA, state regulations, and organizational policies.
  • Participate in morbidity and mortality reviews, incident reviews, and root cause analyses as assigned.
  • Participate in continuing education to maintain competency in correctional psychiatry.
  • Professional Responsibilities
  • Demonstrate professional, ethical, and culturally competent practice.
  • Maintain therapeutic boundaries while working within a secure correctional environment.
  • Respond appropriately to behavioral emergencies and facility emergency procedures.
  • Testify in court or administrative proceedings regarding psychiatric care when required.
  • Participate in on-call coverage as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Graduate of an accredited nursing program. Must be ANCC credentialed as a psychiatric CNS or NP.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and current competence in providing psychotherapy as evidenced by recent experience and documented training in the requested specialized psychotherapeutic treatment and participation in continuing education.
  • Meet the membership requirements of their respective licensing boards to practice independently, and have provided evidence of appropriate clinical training, supervision, and work experience.
  • Professional/Technical Expertise: The ability to demonstrate depth of knowledge and skill in a specific discipline
  • Analytical Thinking: The ability to tackle a problem by using a logical, systematic, sequential approach
  • Building Collaborative Relationships: The ability to develop, maintain, and strengthen partnerships with others inside or outside the organization who can provide information, assistance, and support.
  • Developing Others: The ability to delegate responsibility and to work with others and coach them to develop their capabilities
  • Diagnostic Information Gathering: The ability to identify the information needed to clarify a situation, seek that information from appropriate sources, and use skillful questioning to draw out the information, when others are reluctant to disclose it
  • Oral/ Written Communication: The ability to express oneself clearly in conversations and interactions with others. The ability to ensure that information is passed on to others who should be kept informed. The ability to express oneself clearly in business/clinical writing.

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About Elwyn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are the leader in education, treatment, and support services to children and adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and related behavioral health challenges. Click below to learn about our Vision, Mission & Values; Our Approach; Our History; and Our Leadership Team. Continue reading for more on our unified commitment and national reach.

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Media, PA, US

Year founded

1852

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