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Forensic Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

SNA International

Autopsy Technician

Dover, DE · On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

Maintain a strict, unbroken chain of custody for all remains, personal effects, and forensic specimens. * Assist the forensic pathologist with all aspects of the postmortem examination with ...

SNA International

Autopsy Technician

Dover, DE

$48K - $66K/yr

Maintain a strict, unbroken chain of custody for allremains, personal effects, and forensic specimens. * Assist the forensic pathologist with all aspects of the postmortem examination with ...

All JobsForensic Pathologist Assistant JobsForensic Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Delaware

Forensic Pathologist Assistant information

See Delaware salary details

$14

$55

$89

How much do forensic pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic pathologist assistant in Delaware is $55.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.56 and $67.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a forensic pathologist assistant?

To become a forensic pathologist assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, anatomy, or a related field, along with relevant experience or training in forensic science or pathology. Some positions require certification or on-the-job training, and strong attention to detail and knowledge of medical terminology are important for success in this role.

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 are Forensic Pathologist Assistants?

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.

How hard is it to become a pathologist assistant?

Becoming a forensic pathologist assistant typically requires completing a bachelor's degree, followed by a specialized postgraduate program or certification in forensic pathology assisting. Candidates often need to gain experience in a medical or laboratory setting and may need to pass certification exams, making it a competitive and structured process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Pathologist Assistant, and why are they important?

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 is the highest salary for a pathologist assistant?

The highest salary for a forensic pathologist assistant can reach around $80,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Advanced certifications and specialized skills may contribute to higher compensation in this field.

What do forensic pathologist assistants do?

Forensic pathologist assistants support forensic pathologists by preparing bodies for autopsy, documenting findings, and collecting evidence. They often handle tasks such as taking photographs, assisting during examinations, and maintaining autopsy equipment, requiring knowledge of human anatomy and attention to detail. The role typically involves working in a morgue or medical examiner's office and may require certification or training in forensic science or pathology support.

What are some 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.
More about Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs
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Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Autopsy Technician

Autopsy Technician

SNA International

Dover, DE • On-site

$48K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description
SNA International, a world leader in forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence, is currently looking for a detail-oriented and collaborative Autopsy Technician with a strong work ethic to join the AFMES team in Dover, DE. SNA International's team works together in pursuit of the same cause: to build a safe and just world by empowering organizations in the use of forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence.
Critical Work Responsibilities Include:
  • Ensure that the autopsy suite, instruments, and equipment must are cleaned, sterilized, and fully prepared prior to each examination,
  • Ensure all necessary supplies for each autopsy case are stocked and available.
  • Accurately document all incoming human remains
  • Maintain a strict, unbroken chain of custody for all remains, personal effects, and forensic specimens.
  • Assist the forensic pathologist with all aspects of the postmortem examination with professional proficiency.
  • Preserve and label all biological specimens with complete accuracy.
  • Respectfully prepare remains for release to mortuary/funeral home after the completion of the autopsy.
  • Decontaminate the autopsy suite and equipment per safety protocols within 4 hours of case completion.
  • Maintain the autopsy suite, refrigerated units, and storage areas in a clean and organized state.
  • Monitor inventory levels and report supply needs to prevent work stoppages
  • Performs tissue embedding, operates tissue processor, microtome sectioning, slide staining, cover slipping, and quality control checks.
  • Receive specimens from cases performed outside of the main facility and accessioning.
  • Maintain a histology specimen inventory and appropriate chain of custody for all materials.
  • Assists with tracking specimens retained for extended examination and coordinating shipping / examination times with consultants.
  • Disposition specimens and histology materials per standard operating procedure, following regulations for biohazardous waste.
  • Produce accurate, high-quality photographic documentation of decedents, personal effects, personal protective equipment, and associated evidence to support forensic examinations, identification of remains and medicolegal investigations.
  • Ensure all photographs associated with a case are accurately uploaded, correctly oriented, and placed in the case tracking system within 24 hours of autopsy completion.
  • Must be able to provide coverage for weekend operations as required.
  • Must be willing to globally deploy to OCONUS/CONUS locations (typically 2-5 days, but in rare cases may extend to several weeks).
  • Must be available for travel 30-40% of the time, sometimes at short notice.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
    • An associate's or bachelor's degree in Forensic Science, Mortuary Science, Biology, or a related field is highly desirable.
  • A minimum of two (2) years of hands-on experience in a hospital pathology or medical examiner setting, assisting with autopsies.
  • Certification as a Histotechnician (HT) from ASCP or a similar certification.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of human anatomy and medical terminology.
  • Proficiency in autopsy procedures, including evisceration.
  • Ability to work in physically and emotionally demanding conditions and lift/move heavy objects.
  • Meticulous attention to detail, particularly for specimen handling and documentation.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid U.S. passport and meet all medical/administrative requirements for global deployment.
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

TO APPLY:
Please submit a cover letter along with your CV. CVs without a cover letter will not be considered
SNA International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Apply