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Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Moncks Corner, SC (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Pathologist information

See Moncks Corner, SC salary details

$36.4K

$192.6K

$281K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Moncks Corner, SC is $192,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $160,700.00 and $240,600.00 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.

What cities near Moncks Corner, SC are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs?

Cities near Moncks Corner, SC with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Moncks Corner, SC 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 $192,579 per year, or $92.6 per hour.

Forensic Pathologist

North Charleston, SC • On-site

$275K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Salary: $275,000.00 Annually
Location : 4000 Salt Pointe Pkwy, North Charleston, SC 29405, SC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: CO209714
Department: Coroner
Opening Date: 09/23/2024
Description
JOB PURPOSE: The principal function and responsibility of an employee in this class is to assist the Coroner in caring out the statutory functions of the Charleston County Coroner's to investigate, sudden, unattended, unexpected, or violent deaths within Charleston County. Considerable leeway is granted for the exercise of independent judgment and initiative. The nature of the work performed requires that an employee in this class establish and maintain effective relationships internally and externally with the law-enforcement community, court officials, appropriate medical personnel, other County employees and the public. The principal duties of this class are performed in the autopsy room with some exposure in the field. This employee may be exposed to health and environmental hazards.
HIRING SALARY: $275,000 (Estimated Annual Salary)
APPLICATION DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
Duties and Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (Order of Essential Functions does not indicate importance of functions.)
* Examines human bodies in order to determine the cause and manner of death using various sources of information a well as the performance of an autopsy.
* Determines the cause of all violent, sudden, accidental, traumatic, or unusual deaths; unattended deaths; death in which a criminal act is suspected, and other deaths as provided in South Carolina statutes.
* Reviews cases and provides input based on medical judgement to determine if an autopsy needs to be conducted.
* Observed, records, and preserves any objects or personal property related to deaths, including objects such as medication and suicide notes, DNA, evidence, fingerprints, trace evidence fibers etc.
* Examines scenes of death/crime at the request of the Coroner
* Provides assistance to law enforcement agencies, organ procurement agencies and communicates directly to investigative team of the Coroner's Office in cooperation with the Coroner.
* Provides expert testimony in criminal proceedings related to deaths which were investigated by the Coroner's Office.
* Keeps abreast of current research, principles, practices, standards, and new developments in assigned work area and assists with the formulation of policy for the same
* Assists Locum Tenens with investigations/testimony/case completion if necessary.
* Performs other duties or assumes other responsibilities as apparent or assigned.
SUCCESS FACTORS:
* Take action in solving problems while exhibiting judgment and a systematic approach to decision making; identify the important dimensions of a problem, determine potential causes, obtain relevant information, and specify alternate solutions that result in effectiveness.
* Create positive energy in both individuals and groups to build high morale and group commitments to goals and objectives.
* Embrace change and actively support all efforts to improve processes, increase cooperation, communication, and collaboration between and among co-workers, departments, County officials, officials from other jurisdictions, the business community, and the public.
* Respond positively to a work environment that will change day-to-day, requiring quick departure from and re-organization of one's schedule.
* Demonstrate sound time-management skills by effectively or efficiently delegating, organizing, prioritizing, and completing multiple assignments on or before the designated deadline.
* Safeguard confidential information and use it or disclose it only as expressly authorized or specifically required in the course of performing specific job duties.
* Contribute to overall County effectiveness by providing critical staff support to task forces and by participating, as necessary, in assisting all other teams.
* Utilize high level of conflict resolution skills with staff, community members, elected officials and all stakeholders.
* Represent the Department professionally and effectively to the community and Department members.
* Attentive to the County's standards for customer service, accuracy, quality, efficiency and all County policies and procedures ensuring that all work performed, and all staff members meet those standards while exhibiting consistent treatment of all staff
Minimum Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS:
* Must be a licensed as a physician to practice medicine in the State of South Carolina.
* Must be a pathologist certified by the American Board of Pathology in anatomic pathology or board eligible in forensic pathology within (6 months of hire).
* Forensic pathologists in fellowship training may be considered eligible in lieu of above.
* Knowledge of anatomy, pathology, anthropology and other related disciplines for identification and investigative purposes
* Knowledgeable of firearms and other instruments of death
* Knowledgeable of rules of evidence and court procedures.
* Knowledgeable of vehicular crash analysis
* Adhere to NAME autopsy performance standards and requirements
* Knowledgeable of federal, state, and local laws related to the operation of the county coroner's function
* Skilled in performing autopsies, external examinations, and medical records reviews of decedents.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
* Clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to communicate effectively with medical and law-enforcement personnel, funeral directors, and the general public.
* Vision or other powers of observation, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee operate photographic equipment to investigate, identify, preserve, and maintain evidence.
* Manual dexterity, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to operate computers and other general office equipment.
* Personal mobility and physical reflexes, with or without reasonable accommodation, which permits the employee to operate a vehicle, lift heavy objects, and to easily move about in a way that will not disturb evidence.
* Able to stand for extended amounts of time in different conditions.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
* Employee may be exposed to health and environmental hazards.
* Standard work hours must be flexible, will include days, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. May be greater than 40 hours per week, and may be called to report to duty at any time.
* Work is performed inside and outside. Exposure to cold, heat and elements of weather and nature may be encountered.
* May be exposed to significant workplace pressure and irregular hours.
* The incumbent is subject to call out in emergency situations
Charleston County offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including but not limited to:
  • Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
  • Optional Life and Disability Insurance
  • Optional Medical and Dependent Care Spending Accounts
  • Annual and Sick Leave
  • Fourteen (14) recognized Holidays
  • South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS) State Retirement Plan
  • Police Officers Retirement System (PORS - as applicable)
  • Optional Deferred Compensation Program
  • Longevity and Merit Pay Increases
  • Leadership, Professional and Skill Development Training
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Well-being Program
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