ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

All JobsForensic Pathologist JobsForensic Pathologist Jobs in Utah

Forensic Pathologist information

See Utah salary details

$37.8K

$199.7K

$291.3K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Utah is $199,667.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $166,600.00 and $249,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in Utah? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in UT? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Forensic Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $199,667 per year, or $96 per hour.

Assistant Medical Examiner

Utah Division of Human Resource Management

Taylorsville, UT • On-site

$113.51 - $167.96/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Assistant Medical Examiner
FT / PT Status - Full-Time
Salary - $113.51 - $167.96 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office - HybridRecruiter - Tammy Alfaro talfaro@utah.gov 801-538-4221
Application Deadline - 9/25/2026
Are you a recent (everything is relative!) graduate looking for a great opportunity to gain or further your experience as a forensic pathologist? Are you seeking a supportive and collaborative environment that believes in work-life balance? Are you interested in the public health aspect of forensic medicine? Do you enjoy teaching? Then look no further! The Utah Office of the Medical Examiner is seeking a skilled, knowledgeable individual to fill their vacant role of Assistant Medical Examiner.
Please Read Before Applying:
  • Effective July 1, 2021, in-state work rules require all work to be performed while physically within the state's borders.

This position may be eligible to work a hybrid schedule of both in-office and telework days. Please note, a position's eligibility for hybrid work is established by agency management and is subject to change at their discretion at any time and for any reason.
The State of Utah requires all employees to physically work inside the State of Utah Boundaries.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform and supervise autopsies, review histology specimens, evaluate data from autopsies and ancillary tests, and prepare reports with your findings.
  • Certify the cause and/or manner of death.
  • Provide testimony as an expert witness in courts of law, pre-trial reviews, and other proceedings.
  • Teach medical students, pathology residents, law enforcement, and other personnel about forensic medicine.
  • Provide lectures and other educational presentations to law enforcement, medical personnel, legal personnel, and other professional groups (if interested).

Qualifications
  • Completed ACGME (Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education) approved fellowship in forensic pathology
  • Current unlimited license to practice medicine in the State of Utah or ability to obtain before beginning employment with the State of Utah
  • Completed ACGME approved residency in either Anatomic Pathology or Anatomic/Clinical Pathology
  • Completed American Board of Pathology certification in Anatomic Pathology and forensic pathology, or ability to complete within 2 years of hire
    • Upon passing of forensic pathology board examination, the agency may grant a salary increase

Preference
  • 2 years of experience in forensic pathology
  • An interest in teaching or academic research
  • Additional subspecialty training in cardiovascular pathology or pediatric pathology

Work Schedule:
  • The office performs examinations Monday through Saturday with exams completed by mid afternoon. At full staffing levels, full time pathologists can expect 6-7 examination service days spread out over the month, with telework options available for non service days (following our hybrid work policy).
  • On-call services are focused on tissue/organ donation and handling questions from medical investigators. Scene attendance is up to the discretion of the physician.
  • Please note, a position's eligibility for remote work is established by agency management and is subject to change at their discretion at any time and for any reason.

About the Role
Location -
4451 South 2700 West
Taylorsville, Utah, 84129
United States
Background Check Required - Yes
Drug Test Required - No
Schedule Code - B - Competitive Career Service
Why You Should Join Our TeamIn Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah, click here. Other benefits may include:
  • Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
  • Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
  • Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

The Agency
  • We collaborate closely with public health and law enforcement agencies.
  • Our full time investigators are ABMDI-certified, ensuring high quality investigations
  • Our morgue operations team is highly trained and structured to maximize efficiencies during postmortem examinations.
  • We have a supportive and collaborative team that fosters a culture that balances productivity and personal well-being.
  • Our case management system allows for simple tracking of assignments and provides seamless integration with the state's electronic death registry system
  • Utah's diverse geography and demographics offer a wide range of cases, from urban to wilderness-related deaths but with a relatively low homicide burden.

Experience a sense of achievement for a job well done and enjoy work life balance! We offer great health benefits and retirement plans, generous paid time off, and a balanced work schedule to afford quality time spent with your family.
Benefits Worth Working For
The Agency
To learn more about the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Medical Examiner, click here. If offered this position, your continued employment will be contingent upon passing a fingerprint background check.
EEO StatementThe State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.

Apply