1

Forensic Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Pathologist Assistant information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$58

$94

How much do forensic pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic pathologist assistant in Colorado is $58.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.77 and $70.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic pathologist assistant do?

A forensic pathologist assistant assists during autopsies and criminal investigations by collecting specimens for analysis in a laboratory. In this career, you often collect and photograph evidence on-site. Your duties also involve careful and thorough documentation to preserve the chain of evidence. You may work in the field, a morgue, or a laboratory setting. You are typically part of a team led by a medical examiner or coroner. Most forensic pathologist assistants find employment with local or state governments.

What is a forensic pathologist assistant?

Forensic Pathologist Assistants are trained professionals who support forensic pathologists in the examination of bodies to determine the cause and manner of death, particularly in cases involving suspicious or unexplained circumstances. Their duties include assisting in autopsies, preparing and maintaining detailed reports, collecting and preserving evidence, and sometimes testifying in court. They work closely with law enforcement, medical examiners, and other forensic specialists to help provide critical information for legal investigations. These assistants require specialized education, typically a bachelor's degree in a related field, followed by specific on-the-job training.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forensic pathologist assistant?

To thrive as a Forensic Pathologist Assistant, you need a solid background in biological sciences, experience in laboratory procedures, and typically an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with autopsy tools, laboratory instruments, and case management software is essential, and certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) can be beneficial. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to communicate findings clearly are vital soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure accurate, efficient support for forensic pathologists and contribute to reliable medico-legal investigations.

What is the difference between Forensic Pathologist Assistant vs Forensic Autopsy Technician?

AspectForensic Pathologist AssistantForensic Autopsy Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree, certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentMedical examiner offices, morgues, labsMorgues, medical examiner offices, forensic labs
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in autopsies, prepare reports, support pathologistsAssist with specimen collection, prepare bodies, maintain equipment

While both roles support forensic autopsies, Forensic Pathologist Assistants typically have formal education and assist pathologists directly, whereas Forensic Autopsy Technicians focus on specimen handling and body preparation with less formal education.

What are common challenges faced by forensic pathologist assistants in their daily work?

Forensic pathologist assistants often encounter emotionally challenging situations due to frequent exposure to traumatic cases, including homicides and accidental deaths. They must maintain meticulous attention to detail while assisting with autopsies, documenting findings, and managing sensitive evidence. Additionally, the role requires strict adherence to legal and ethical guidelines, which can be demanding in high-pressure or time-sensitive environments. Strong communication and collaboration with pathologists, law enforcement, and other medical professionals are essential to ensure accuracy and integrity throughout the investigative process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Colorado? For Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Forensic Pathologist Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist Assistant job openings in Colorado 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 $121,011 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Medicolegal Death Investigator (Part-Time)

Pueblo County

Pueblo, CO • On-site

$25.71 - $38.56/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY Performs medico/legal death investigations for the County Coroner's Office. Work involves investigating and reporting on deaths from unknown natural causes, homicide, accident, suicide. Work includes assisting and coordinating efforts with various agencies and entities.

Employees proceed independently to complete investigations, developing information and following up on matters on their own and using judgment to deal with most problems encountered in the work; supervision and case direction are provided by the Chief Deputy Coroner Investigator. Please note: Shifts for this role will be for weekend coverage only: Friday-Saturday OR Sunday-Monday This posting may be used to fill multiple vacancies WHAT YOU WILL DO Responds to death scene assignments. Secures the death scene; makes physical examination of deceased; photographs and performs evaluation of the scene.

Identifies the deceased. Interviews witnesses, family members, physicians, employers, friends, professionals and others associated with the deceased; compiles statements, documents, related factual evidence, medical records and other records that may be related to the death. Facilitates body removals; assists when needed.

Notifies next of kin of deceased. Schedules, coordinates and attends autopsies with pathologist, law enforcement agencies and the District Attorney's Office. Assists pathologist as needed.

Writes and compiles reports using obtained information so as to assist the Coroner in determining cause of death. Ensures proper release of information to public through press releases and/or media interviews. Provides training and education in the field of forensic death investigation to other law enforcement, health agencies, schools, community service agencies and the general public.

Acts as a liaison with law enforcement personnel, the District Attorney's Office, funeral directors, hospitals, next of kin and news media. Locates collects and preserves evidence; arranges for technical analysis of evidence as appropriate. Works with Public Administrator to protect property.

Writes comprehensive reports of investigations and confers with the Coroner and attorneys regarding cases. Assists at Coroner's inquests; testifies in court; serves subpoenas; advises prosecuting attorneys of facts likely to be presented in testimony. Performs basic vehicle maintenance; picks up supplies.

Performs related work as required. Performs other duties as appropriate or necessary for performance of the job. WHAT YOU HAVE EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: OPTION #1: Bachelor's Degree & years of experience Bachelor's degree with a concentration in a human science field* required Two years or more of combined related experience (such as, death/scene investigation, autopsy/surgical assisting, law enforcement, nursing, emergency medical services, organ/tissue procurement) including supervisory/managerial experience required OPTION #2: Associate's Degree & years of experience Associate's degree with a concentration in a human science field* required Three years or more of combined related experience (such as, death/scene investigation, autopsy/surgical assisting, law enforcement, nursing, emergency medical services, organ/tissue procurement) including supervisory/managerial experience required OPTION #3: High School Diploma/GED & years of experience High School Diploma or GED equivalency required Four years or more of combined related experience (such as, death/scene investigation, autopsy/surgical assisting, law enforcement, nursing, emergency medical services, organ/tissue procurement) including supervisory/managerial experience required ITEMS FOR ALL OPTIONS: NOTE: *Human science field such as Biology, Criminalistics, Forensic Science, Nursing, Emergency Medical Technician, Paramedic, Forensic Anthropology, Anatomy and Physiology or related field LICENSES/CERTIFICATES: Valid driver's license at the time of application and a valid Colorado driver's license at time of hire required American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigation (A.B.M.D.I.) preferred Colorado Coroner's Association (CCA) as a Colorado Death Investigator preferred SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must successfully pass background check Department may set special training and education requirements in medico/legal death investigation to meet A.B.M.D.I

requirements NOTE: For preferred qualifications, the substitution of any combination of relevant and related education, training, and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and ability may be considered, including by way of example, specific experience or skill-based qualifications that may substitute for certain educational requirements, or a combination of relevant education and experience, including supervisory experience WHAT PUEBLO COUNTY OFFERS Comprehensive Benefits package (medical, dental, vision, etc.) for full-time employees Generous Vacation and Sick Leave Accrual Remote & Hybrid working opportunities County Retirement Program Autonomy to grow and find your career path with supportive leadership Truly inclusive and diverse environment Fitness Center (Historic Pueblo Courthouse Building) May be eligible for up to 12-weeks Paid Parental Leave Benefits (full-time employees)