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Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Stormont Vail Health

The Forensic Examiner will assist in maintaining the program by providing emergency services for victims of sexual assault, including a complete forensic exam. The Forensic Examiner will work ...

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Forensic Pathologist information

See Virginia salary details

$41.1K

$217.4K

$317.3K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Virginia is $217,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $181,400.00 and $271,600.00 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Virginia?

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

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

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

Forensic Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Virginia 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 $217,444 per year, or $104.5 per hour.

Forensic Examiner - Emergency Dept Administration - PRN

Stormont Vail Health

On-site

Per diem

Posted 12 days ago

Stormont Vail Health rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

754th of 896 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Position Status:

Shift:

Other (United States of America)

Hours per week:

0

Job Information
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt
A Brief Overview
The Forensic Examiner is a Registered Nurse, Advanced Practice Nurse, or Physicians Assistant employed by Stormont Vail Health reporting to the Clinical Nurse Leader and Director of the Emergency Department. The Forensic Examiner will assist in maintaining the program by providing emergency services for victims of sexual assault, including a complete forensic exam. The Forensic Examiner will work collaboratively with and serve as a resource to appropriate law enforcement agencies, community advocacy groups, media, and legal staff to assure program principles are followed. Forensic Examiner's will implement and monitor performance improvement measures when appropriate. The delivery of professional nursing care at Stormont Vail Health is guided by Jean Watson's Theory of Human Caring and the theory of Shared governance, both of which are congruent with the mission, vision, and values of the organization.
Education Qualifications

  • Must successfully complete Stormont Vail SANE orientation upon hire and maintain clinical competence as a SANE. Completes yearly SANE competencies as assigned. Required

  • Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN) Preferred


Experience Qualifications

  • 1 year Nursing experience. Required


Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to concentrate and perform complex and variable mental efforts with emphasis on synthesis of information, written and oral communication. (Required proficiency)


Licenses and Certifications

  • Registered Nurse - KSBN Required


What you will do

  • Be able to explain the SANE/SART program and its role in the community. Contribute to professional growth and development of self and other SANE's. Provide information about the medical-legal exam and SANE/SART program to investigators, and prosecutors. Maintain contact with SANE leadership for at least one year after termination of contract and respond to any and all subpoenas for cases examined while employed as a SANE.

  • Consult with hospital and law enforcement records department.

  • Maintain equipment and supplies in examination room after use.

  • Perform and document the forensic interview and assessment accurately per standards outlined in policy.

  • Scan all legal paper documentation into electronic medical record. Testify in court about records as necessary.

  • Maintain photo documentation separate from electronic medical record.

  • Explain the health care system and nursing process as required.

  • Review all policies and maintains competencies.

  • Ensure development and periodic updates of written procedures and protocols.

  • Consult with nurse examiners, officers and advocates.

  • Ensure development and periodic updates of written procedures and protocols.

  • Complete documentation in a timely manner (no later than 24 hours after exam).

  • Must arrive to work timely, within 1 hour of notification when on call. Will sign up for minimum requirement of call shifts per month and holiday coverage per rotation.

  • Delegates tasks and duties in the direction and coordination of health care team members, patient care, and department activities in accordance with the Kansas State Nurse Practice Act.


Required for All Jobs

  • Complies with all policies, standards, mandatory training and requirements of Stormont Vail Health

  • Performs other duties as assigned


Patient Facing Options

  • Position is Patient Facing


Remote Work Guidelines

  • Workspace is a quiet and distraction-free allowing the ability to comply with all security and privacy standards.

  • Stable access to electricity and a minimum of 25mb upload and internet speed.

  • Dedicate full attention to the job duties and communication with others during working hours.

  • Adhere to break and attendance schedules agreed upon with supervisor.

  • Abide by Stormont Vail's Remote Worker Policy and will review and acknowledge the Remote Work Agreement annually.


Remote Work Capability

  • On-Site; No Remote


Scope

  • No Supervisory Responsibility

  • No Budget Responsibility


Physical Demands

  • Balancing: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Carrying: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Climbing (Stairs): Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Crawling: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Crouching: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Driving (Automatic): Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination: Frequently 3-5 Hours

  • Feeling: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Grasping (Fine Motor): Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Grasping (Gross Hand): Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Handling: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Hearing: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Kneeling: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Lifting: Occasionally 1-3 Hours up to 50 lbs

  • Operate Foot Controls: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Pulling: Occasionally 1-3 Hours up to 50 lbs

  • Pushing: Occasionally 1-3 Hours up to 50 lbs

  • Reaching (Forward): Occasionally 1-3 Hours up to 50 lbs

  • Reaching (Overhead): Rarely less than 1 hour up to 50 lbs

  • Repetitive Motions: Frequently 3-5 Hours

  • Sitting: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Standing: Occasionally 1-3 Hours

  • Stooping: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Talking: Frequently 3-5 Hours

  • Walking: Occasionally 1-3 Hours


Working Conditions

  • Combative Patients: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Infectious Diseases: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Needle Stick: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Noise/Sounds: Rarely less than 1 hour

  • Risk of Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids: Rarely less than 1 hour

Stormont Vail is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to the philosophy and practice of providing equal opportunities for all employees and prospective employees, without regard to the following classifications: race, color, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, uniformed service, disability or genetic information. This applies to all aspects of employment practices including hiring, firing, pay, benefits, promotions, lateral movements, job training, and any other terms or conditions of employment.

Retaliation is prohibited against any person who files a claim of discrimination, participates in a discrimination investigation, or otherwise opposes an unlawful employment act based upon the above classifications.

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