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Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Recognizes and questions and troubleshoots unexpected lab values and consults with pathologists and ... Associate degree in chemistry, toxicology, biochemistry or forensic science required Physical ...

Forensic Pathologist information

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$39.5K

$208.5K

$304.2K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Ohio is $208,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $174,000.00 and $260,500.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in Ohio? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in OH? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $208,511 per year, or $100.2 per hour.

Associate Medical Examiner-Medical Examiner's Office

Clark County, Washington

Hamilton, OH

$18K - $27K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Conducts death investigations to determine the cause and manner of death. Investigations include the performance of autopsies, external examinations, determining/verifying decedent identity, review of decedent history, interpretation of various tests and histologic slides, provide expert testimony and participate as part of public health committees as primary work duties allow. The Associate Medical Examiner may serve as the acting clinical department head in the absence of the Chief Medical Examiner.
This recruitment will be open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We encourage interested parties to apply ASAP.Qualifications

Must possess a Washington MD/DO license, is currently or has been certified by the American Board of Pathology in anatomic pathology. Must be either certified by the American Board of Pathology in forensic pathology or eligible to sit for the boards in forensic pathology and obtain certification within three years of appointment. Must maintain certification by the American Board of Pathology in forensic pathology. Maintain a valid driver license in state of residency.

Knowledge of: Operations, services, and activities of a death investigation center; pathology and forensic pathology procedures; methods, practices, equipment and procedures of handling deceased individuals; report writing principles and techniques.

Ability to: Prepare detailed technical reports; solve complex investigations of death; use strong interpersonal skills, including ability to interact and cooperate with co-workers and to deal effectively with law enforcement personnel, attorneys, court personnel, county commissioners, and the general public.

Examples of Duties

CLASSIFICATION DISTINCTIONS

The Associate Medical Examiner reports directly to the Chief Medical Examiner. The Associate Medical Examiner is not responsible for the development or ongoing management of Medical Examiner Office policies and procedures; however, the Associate Medical Examiner may provide input and recommendations for policy and procedure revisions during periods of regularly scheduled review. This position has broad responsibility and considerable latitude for independent judgment and works autonomously in the performance of daily forensic pathology and operational activities. All work is subject to review by the Chief Medical Examiner.

KEY OR TYPICAL TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Performs duties in compliance with department policies and procedures.

  • Performs timely postmortem examinations, retaining samples, specimens, and tissues necessary for analysis, examination, and documentation as prescribed by existing practices of forensic pathology.

  • Prepares written autopsy reports using appropriate reporting form and convention.

  • Issues preliminary reports in writing, of the cause of death where such determination is not dependent upon further investigation.

  • Keeps and maintains appropriate records, reports, and other documentation regarding investigations as well as physical evidence transferred from other investigative agencies.

  • Confers with law enforcement officials on cases performed and occasionally on other cases.

  • Provides expert testimony as required by the Prosecuting Attorney.

  • Visits the scene of death, or discovery of remains to provide professional assistance as appropriate.

  • Takes documentary digital images.

  • Recommends and assists in the implementation of goals and objectives and assists with establishing schedules and methods for providing forensic pathology services.

  • Other duties as assigned by the Medical Examiner.

Salary GradeM2.505Salary Range$18,803.00 - $27,263.00- per month
Close DateOpen Until FilledRecruiterIrene Catherine Chrest

Email:

Irene.Chrest@clark.wa.govEqual Opportunity Employer

Clark County is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity in employment, access, and delivery of all county services. Clark County's Equal Employment Opportunity Plan is available athttp://www.clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.

Employee Benefits and additional compensation

Clark County provides regular full-time and part-time employees with a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, vision and dental insurance, paid leave, flexible spending accounts, life insurance and long-term disability, retirement, and deferred compensation. Some types of employees in some positions and bargaining units might have different benefits and additional compensation. More specific benefit information for the different bargaining units can be found at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/employee-benefits. Also please refer to the specific bargaining unit contract for additional compensation at https://clark.wa.gov/human-resources/documents.


Retirement Information

All Clark County employees must participate in a WASHINGTON STATE RETIREMENT SYSTEM PLAN (PERS, PSERS or LEOFF).Employee contributions begin the first day of work.Current contribution rates vary by plan but could range from 5% to 15% of gross pay, depending on the plan choice.

For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site here:http://www.drs.wa.gov/

If you are in need of ADA/Section 504 assistance for accommodations, please contact Human Resources at (564) 397-2456; Relay (800) 833-6388.