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Forensic Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Empower Mental Health PLLC

Audiologist

Cadillac, MI

$150 - $185/hr

These are structured, objective assessments that assist the VA in determining disability benefits ... A.), PhD in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology, Master?s in Communication Disorders (MCD), or ...

Empower Mental Health PLLC

Audiologist

Manistee, MI

$150 - $185/hr

These are structured, objective assessments that assist the VA in determining disability benefits ... A.), PhD in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology, Master?s in Communication Disorders (MCD), or ...

Hope Network

Rehab Tech - Clinical

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16/hr

Speech-Language Pathologist * Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) * Physical Therapist * Forensic Social Worker * Case Manager * Residential Coordinator * Assistant Supervisor

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Forensic Pathologist Assistant information

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$12

$48

$78

How much do forensic pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic pathologist assistant in Michigan is $48.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.93 and $58.65 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Michigan? For Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Forensic Pathologist Assistant job openings:
Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist Assistant job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 29% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,305 per year, or $48.2 per hour.
Faculty - Forensic Pathologist

Faculty - Forensic Pathologist

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$225K - $263K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Western Michigan University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

418th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Pathology at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine is seeking a full-time Forensic Pathologist at the Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor level to join six (6) board-certified forensic pathologists in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The ideal candidate will perform medicolegal autopsies, supervise death investigations completed by Medical Examiner Investigators, teach medical students and the forensic pathology fellow, and develop a program of scholarly inquiry. In 2024, our office investigated over 4,800 deaths, and we performed over 1,600 postmortem examinations. We are committed to creating a workplace that provides work-life balance and allows you to pursue your academic interests. Salaries are very competitive and are based on academic rank and years of service. For additional information about our office, visit our website at mimedicalexaminer.com.
Highlights:
  • NAME Accredited.
  • Medical Examiner for 13 Michigan counties and consultant for several additional area counties in Michigan and Indiana.
  • 330,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility.
  • Full-body digital x-ray imaging device and a mobile computed tomography (CT) scanner.
  • On-site neuropathologies, anthropologists, toxicologists, and histology services.
  • Toxicology testing through AXIS Forensic Toxicology, with short turnaround times.

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BENEFITS:
  • Wellness reimbursement.
  • Continuing education and tuition reimbursement.
  • Employer-funded retirement plan.
  • Two medical plan options: PPO and High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with employer HSA contribution.
  • Up to $6,300 annually for professional development.
  • Starting bonus (as applicable).
  • Professional liability insurance coverage.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform forensic pathology, hospital autopsies, and conduct activities of a medical examiner practice.
  • Interprets reports made by physicians, pathologists and toxicologists.
  • Confers with medical and investigative personnel in making determinations as to the cause and circumstance of death.
  • Consults with Law enforcement, the District Attorney, and attorneys in the preparation of court cases.
  • Provide expert testimony and advise the Prosecutor's Office in criminal proceedings relating to deaths.
  • Prepares reports of findings.
  • Participates in medical students' education through curriculum development and elective opportunities.
  • Conduct research.
  • Assists the Department Chair with National Association of Medical Examiners accreditation.
  • Availability to work on weekends or evenings to complete time-sensitive projects.
  • Acquires knowledge for new technology and policy/procedure revisions.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Compensation will be commensurate with education, experience, and qualifications.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Physician (MD or DO) with board certification by the American Board of Pathology in Anatomic Pathology.
  • Board-certified/eligible with the American Board of Pathology in Forensic Pathology.
  • Candidates should be academically oriented, preferably with experience in medical education.
  • Licensure to practice in the state of Michigan.

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