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Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Empower Mental Health PLLC

Audiologist

Cadillac, MI

$150 - $185/hr

A.), PhD in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology, Master?s in Communication Disorders (MCD), or ... Prior experience conducting VA, C&P, disability, or forensic-style evaluations * Strong ...

Empower Mental Health PLLC

Audiologist

Manistee, MI

$150 - $185/hr

A.), PhD in Audiology or Speech-Language Pathology, Master?s in Communication Disorders (MCD), or ... Prior experience conducting VA, C&P, disability, or forensic-style evaluations * Strong ...

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Forensic Pathologist information

See Michigan salary details

$36.2K

$191.2K

$278.9K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Michigan is $191,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $159,500.00 and $238,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a forensic pathologist make?

The average annual salary for a forensic pathologist in Michigan is approximately $150,000 to $200,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Forensic pathologists typically require medical degrees, pathology training, and board certification, and they often work in medical examiner or coroner offices with irregular hours.

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 often need strong academic records, relevant experience, and certification from the American Board of Pathology, which can make the process challenging but achievable with dedication.

What is a forensic pathologist?

A forensic pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in determining the cause and manner of death by examining deceased individuals. They perform autopsies, analyze medical records, and may collect evidence to help law enforcement investigate suspicious or unexplained deaths. Forensic pathologists often testify in court as expert witnesses and play a critical role in criminal investigations. Their expertise helps bring clarity to legal cases and provides closure for families.

What would I do as a forensic pathologist?

A forensic pathologist examines deceased individuals to determine cause and manner of death, often performing autopsies and collecting evidence. They work closely with law enforcement, document findings, and may testify in court, requiring knowledge of pathology, anatomy, and legal procedures. The role typically involves detailed reports and may require certification from relevant medical boards.

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.

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

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 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 7 steps to become a forensic pathologist?

Becoming a forensic pathologist typically involves completing a bachelor's degree, followed by medical school to earn an MD or DO degree. After medical school, one must complete a residency in pathology, then pursue a fellowship in forensic or forensic pathology. Certification by a relevant medical board and gaining practical experience are also essential steps in the process.
More about Forensic Pathologist 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 jobs in Michigan? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in MI? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Forensic Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $191,162 per year, or $91.9 per hour.
Faculty - Forensic Pathologist

Faculty - Forensic Pathologist

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$225K - $263K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 14 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

436th of 555 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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