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Forensic Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Forensic Pathologist Assistant information

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$15

$56

$92

How much do forensic pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic pathologist assistant in Chicago, IL is $57.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.81 and $69.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

Is it worth becoming a forensic pathologist assistant?

A forensic pathologist assistant supports medical examiners by preparing bodies, documenting findings, and assisting with autopsies, often requiring a relevant degree and certification. The role offers steady employment in forensic laboratories or medical examiner offices, with opportunities for specialization and advancement. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in forensic science and pathology, but it involves exposure to potentially disturbing scenes and irregular hours.
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Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Forensic Pathologist Assistant job openings:

Forensic Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $118,645 per year, or $57 per hour.

ASCP PA - Pathologist Assistant

Hoffman Estates, IL • On-site

MLee Medical Employment
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about MLee Medical Employmentexternal

$38.06/hr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

ASCP - Pathologist Assistant (PA)
Location: Near Naperville, Illinois
MLR is seeking a part-time, permanent, direct-hire Pathology Assistant (PA) to join a well-respected hospital in the Chicagoland area!
Compensation:
  • Starting at $38.06 per hour
Pathology Assistant Responsibilities:
  • The Pathology Assistant will collaborate with 1 full-time pathologist
  • Assist in the preparation and grossing of surgical specimens.
  • This is a part-time position with a schedule of Monday-Friday, 2 PM to 6 PM.
  • Opportunity for growth, including floating to other regions for additional hours.
  • The Pathology Assistant will handle an annual case volume of 15,000, with a growth rate of 9% per year.
  • Reports to the lab manager, who coordinates with the Medical Director.
    Regular interaction with pathologists, lab staff, and clinicians.
  • Daily workload includes approximately 60-90 cases.
Pathology Assistant Specialized Techniques & Instruments:
  • Histology using Leica equipment.
  • Secura Tissue Processors.
  • Faxitron device for breast tissue.
  • Cryostats for frozen sections.
Pathology Assistant Required Certifications & Licenses:
  • Pathologist Assistant (PA) - ASCP accredited and licensed.
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • ASCP (PA) certification required.
  • Primary responsibilities include grossing in surgical pathology (small GI biopsies, breast, colon, liver).
  • No forensic or autopsy work involved.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

If you are interested, please apply today to learn more about this opportunity with the one of the most recognized hospital in Chicago!
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About McCall and Lee

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McCall and Lee is a well-known and reputable company, headquartered in Austin, Texas, United States. Operating in the healthcare industry, their primary services center around professional recruiting and executive search. They cater to the needs of various levels of medical practitioners and executive positions for healthcare establishments. McCall and Lee is founded on the premise of filling healthcare vacancies with the most suitable and competent professionals to ensure top-quality medical service delivery. Their core value revolves around integrity, excellence, commitment, and customer satisfaction.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and human resources consulting services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Austin, TX, US

Social media

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