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Forensic Medical Examiner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PathGroup

Forensic Medical - Pathologist

Nashville, TN · On-site

Nationally recognized, NAME-accredited Medical Examiner Office * Serve Metro Nashville and Davidson County * Large, collaborative forensic pathology team * Excellent work-life balance with flexible ...

PathGroup

Forensic Medical - Pathologist

Nashville, TN · On-site

Nationally recognized, NAME-accredited Medical Examiner Office * Serve Metro Nashville and Davidson County * Large, collaborative forensic pathology team * Excellent work-life balance with flexible ...

Harris County

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX

$300K/yr

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner ...

Harris County, TX

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX · On-site

$300K/yr

Institute of Forensic Sciences Division: Pathology Services Opening Date: 01/06/2025 Closing Date ... Brief Assistant Medical Examiner Overview: The Assistant Medical Examiner conducts medicolegal ...

Harris County

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX

$300K/yr

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner ...

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How much do forensic medical examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic medical examiner in the United States is $61,011.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,000.00 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.
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What states have the most Forensic Medical Examiner jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forensic Medical Examiner jobs include:

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Forensic Medical Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Medical Examiner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,011 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Forensic Medical - Pathologist

PathGroup

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

PathGroup rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

PathGroup is seeking a Board-Certified or Board-Eligible Forensic Pathologist to join our nationally recognized, NAME-accredited Medical Examiner program serving Metro Nashville and Davidson County.

This is an exceptional opportunity to join one of the nation's premier forensic pathology programs. You'll become part of a large, collaborative team of experienced forensic pathologists practicing within a well-established, physician-led organization known for excellence in forensic medicine.

Our physicians enjoy excellent work-life balance with flexible scheduling, manageable caseloads within NAME standards, strong investigative and administrative support, and modern infrastructure designed to help you focus on practicing high-quality forensic medicine.

Highlights

  • Nationally recognized, NAME-accredited Medical Examiner Office
  • Serve Metro Nashville and Davidson County
  • Large, collaborative forensic pathology team
  • Excellent work-life balance with flexible scheduling
  • Caseloads within NAME standards
  • Competitive compensation package with incentive opportunities
  • NEW Higher Sign-on Bonus and relocation assistance
  • Visa sponsorship and green card support available
  • Academic appointment opportunities with local universities
  • Proprietary case database and modern infrastructure
  • No hospital or payor credentialing required

About the Practice

  • Flexible scheduling with shared call responsibilities
  • Few call shifts per month
  • Strong investigative and administrative support
  • Well-established partnership with Metro Nashville government
  • Modern forensic facilities and proprietary case database
  • Opportunities to support future NAME accreditation efforts across additional offices
  • Stable leadership and experienced forensic physician team

About Nashville

Known as Music City, Nashville offers an outstanding quality of life with world-class restaurants, live entertainment, professional sports, and a thriving healthcare community.

Home to the NFL's Tennessee Titans and NHL's Nashville Predators, Nashville combines big-city amenities with Southern hospitality. Residents enjoy excellent schools, outdoor recreation, short commutes, and convenient nationwide travel through Nashville International Airport.

Best of all, Tennessee has no state income tax, allowing you to maximize your earning potential.

Why PathGroup?

  • Largest Independent Private Pathology Group in the U.S.: Join a physician-led organization with a national reputation for diagnostic excellence.
  • Physician-Led Culture: Our pathologists help shape clinical standards and organizational direction.
  • Collaborative Subspecialty Network: Work alongside a large network of experienced pathologists with easy access to consultation and collaboration.
  • Innovative Digital Pathology: PathGroup continues to invest in digital pathology and advanced diagnostic technologies.
  • Work-Life Balance: Collaborative scheduling models and generous Allowed Time Off (ATO) support physicians' well-being and sustainable careers.
  • Professional Growth: Opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and collaboration across subspecialties.
  • Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Competitive salary, malpractice coverage including tail, full benefits, and a 401(k) Safe Harbor Plan.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform forensic autopsies and postmortem examinations
  • Determine cause and manner of death
  • Prepare comprehensive reports and provide courtroom testimony when required
  • Collaborate with law enforcement, legal professionals, and investigative teams
  • Ensure accurate and timely case documentation
  • Participate in team-based scheduling and coverage
  • MD or DO from an accredited institution
  • Board-Certified or Board-Eligible in AP/CP and Forensic Pathology
  • Eligible for Tennessee medical licensure
  • Strong communication and courtroom presentation skills
  • Interest in collaborative forensic team practice
  • Candidates completing forensic fellowship are encouraged to apply

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