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Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$52K - $67K/yr

... the Forensic Pathologist in the determination of cause and manner of death. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Experience : Three years of experience investigating the circumstances of death at death scene ...

Forensic Pathologist information

See Maryland salary details

$40.3K

$212.9K

$310.6K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Maryland is $212,864.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $177,600.00 and $265,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do forensic pathologists do?

Forensic pathologists are specially-trained physicians who work with law enforcement to determine the cause of a suspicious death in a case. They perform an autopsy to examine the body; they test blood and tissue samples, check for indications of injuries caused by firearms or other weapons, and seek other trace evidence that may provide information to the case. Before they make determinations on the cause of death, forensic pathologists also study the victim’s medical history and evaluate other evidence collected at the crime scene and witness statements. Once they compile and analyze the evidence, they prepare a report and may need to testify the reasons behind their findings in court.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic pathologist?

To thrive as a Forensic Pathologist, you need a medical degree, board certification in pathology, and specialized training in forensic pathology. Familiarity with autopsy techniques, laboratory information systems, and evidence handling protocols is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear written and verbal communication skills help in accurately determining causes of death and presenting findings. These competencies ensure reliable forensic investigations, support legal proceedings, and uphold public health and justice.

What are some of the unique challenges forensic pathologists face when working with law enforcement and legal teams?

Forensic pathologists often collaborate closely with law enforcement and legal professionals, which can present unique challenges such as communicating complex medical findings in a way that non-medical personnel can understand. They may be called upon to testify in court, requiring strong presentation skills and the ability to defend their conclusions under cross-examination. Balancing the need for scientific objectivity with the expectations and pressures from various stakeholders can also be demanding. Additionally, managing a high caseload while ensuring meticulous attention to detail is essential in this role.

What is the difference between Forensic Pathologist vs Medical Examiner?

AspectForensic Pathologist

Required CredentialsMedical degree, pathology residency, forensic pathology fellowship, medical license
Work EnvironmentAutopsy suites, laboratories, crime scenes
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, medical examiner offices, forensic labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar roles in death investigations

While both forensic pathologists and medical examiners investigate unexplained deaths, forensic pathologists perform autopsies and analyze evidence in labs, whereas medical examiners are typically elected officials overseeing death investigations. The roles overlap in credentials and work environment, but their responsibilities differ slightly based on jurisdiction and specific duties.

Is forensic pathology a good career?

Forensic pathology is a specialized medical field involving the investigation of sudden or unexplained deaths through autopsies and evidence analysis. It requires medical training, certification, and strong attention to detail, with job stability and demand in criminal justice and public health sectors. The career can be rewarding for those interested in medicine, law enforcement, and scientific investigation.

Is it hard to get into forensic pathology?

Forensic pathology is a specialized medical field that requires completing medical school, a residency in pathology, and a fellowship in forensic pathology, making entry competitive. Candidates need strong academic records, relevant training, and certification from the American Board of Pathology, which can make the process challenging but achievable with dedication.

What jobs can you get as a forensic pathologist?

A forensic pathologist primarily works in medical examiner or coroner offices, performing autopsies to determine cause of death. They may also work in crime laboratories, hospitals, or research institutions, providing expert testimony in legal cases and collaborating with law enforcement. Certification by the American Board of Pathology is typically required for these roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Maryland?

The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Maryland are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist jobs in Maryland look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist jobs in Maryland are:

What cities in Maryland are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in MD?

For Forensic Pathologist jobs in MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 79% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $212,864 per year, or $102.3 per hour.

FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR

Baltimore, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

GRADE

ASTD12\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

MDH Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME)\r\n900 W. Baltimore Street\r\nBaltimore, MD 21223\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

A Forensic Investigator is full performance level work that conducts investigation of cases that are referred to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME). Investigations include screening cases, gathering information, conducting an examination of the body at location of the incident and producing an investigation report that will assist the Forensic Pathologist in the determination of cause and manner of death.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience:Three years of experience investigating the circumstances of death at death scene incidents.\r\nNotes:\r\n1. Candidates may substitute the possession of an Associate of Arts degree in Health Sciences, Police Science, or Forensics from an accredited college or university and one year of experience investigating the circumstances of death at death scene incidents for the required experience.\r\n2. Candidates may substitute experience assisting in the autopsies of human corpses on a month-for-month basis for a maximum of six months of the required experience.\r\n3. Candidates may substitute one year of experience as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner for the required experience.\r\n4. Candidates may substitute college internships, conferences, and seminar education in forensics, death investigation, and trauma of forty (40) hours for an equivalency of three months, for a maximum of one year of the required experience.\r\n5.Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military serviceexperience as a non-commissioned officer in Criminal Investigation classifications or Criminal Investigation specialty codes in the Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and Compliance field ofwork on a year-for-year basis for the required experience.\r\n

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

The desired candidate should possess experience in death investigations with a medical examiner/coroner system.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

Employees in this classification will be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees will be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland.\r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in 24 hours a day, and therefore, will be required to provide the employing agency with a phone number where they can be reached.\r\n2. Employees in this classification are subject to substance abuse testing in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulations 17.04.09, Testing for Illegal Use of Drugs.\r\n3. Employees in this classification must possess registration as a death scene investigator with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators within two (2) years of hiring date. Once certification is received, employees are required to maintain the certification. \r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants who meet the minimum (and selective) qualifications will be included in further evaluation. The evaluation may be a rating of your application based on your education, training and experience as they relate to the requirements of the position.Therefore, it is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application.Please report all related education, experience, dates and hours of work.Clearly indicate your college degree and major on your application, if applicable. For education obtained outside the U.S., any job offer will be contingent on the candidate providing an evaluation for equivalency by a foreign credential evaluation service prior to starting employment (and may be requested prior to interview).\r\nComplete applications must be submitted by the closing date.Information submitted after this date will not be added.\r\nIncorrect application forms will not be accepted.Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.\r\nCandidates may remain on thecertified eligible list for a period of at least one year. The resulting certified eligible list for this recruitment may be used for similar positions in this or other State agencies.\r\n

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online,the paper application (and supplemental questionnaire) may be submitted to MDH, Recruitment and Selection Division, 201 W. Preston St., Room 114-B, Baltimore, MD 21201.Paper application materials must be received by 5 pm, close of business, on the closing date for the recruitment, no postmarks will be accepted.\r\nIf additional information is required, the preferred method is to upload. If you are unable to upload, please fax the requested informationto 410-333-5689.Only additional materials that are required will be accepted for this recruitment. All additional information must be received by the closing date and time.\r\nFor questions regarding this recruitment, please contact theMDH Recruitment and Selection Division at 410-767-1251.\r\nIf you are having difficulty with your user account or have general questions about the online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850 orApplication.Help@maryland.gov.\r\nAppropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request by calling: 410-767-1251 or MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.\r\nWe thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\nPeople with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time