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Forensic Pathologist Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

PT Coroner's Transporter

PA · On-site

$15.68/hr

Occasionally assist the Autopsy Technician and Forensic Pathologists with the moving of bariatric decedents during examinations * Operate a county emergency vehicle in accordance with Coroner Office ...

Occasionally assist the Autopsy Technician and Forensic Pathologists with the moving of bariatric decedents during examinations * Operate a county emergency vehicle in accordance with Coroner Office ...

Forensic Pathologist information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$41.9K

$221.3K

$322.9K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Philadelphia, PA is $221,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $184,700.00 and $276,500.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $221,318 per year, or $106.4 per hour.

Board Certified Forensic Pathologist

Norristown, PA • On-site

GovernmentJobs.com
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Forensic Pathologist

The Office of the Coroner in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania is seeking a Full-time Board Certified Forensic Pathologist to examine traumatic, sudden and unexplained deaths involving cases in the public interest, including those affecting the criminal justice and public health systems. The Forensic Pathologist will perform postmortem examinations in compliance with the NAME Forensic Autopsy Standards, document findings in narrative reports, and offer objective consultation and/or court testimony to outside agencies, including criminal court officials and law enforcement. This position must also be available to receive and respond to telephone inquiries from home, while working on-call.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death and documents written reports of findings supported by the medicolegal death investigation.
  • Examines the body structures and internal organs of human bodies in order to trace the cause of death, disease or illness.
  • Reviews items related to autopsies such as hospital charts, deputy coroner reports, law enforcement agency reports, and postmortem results.
  • Directs the determination and certification of causes of death.
  • Directs the preservation of the chain of evidence.
  • Advises health departments, and government agencies involved in death investigations with relevant findings.
  • Serves as an expert witness in depositions, grand jury sessions, trials, and conferences with attorneys.
  • Provides expert witness capabilities for all forensic criminal and civil actions associated with cases investigated and any other forensic needs within Montgomery County jurisdiction.
  • Participates in conferences with family members, law enforcement, attorneys, and other individuals to provide information on investigations and autopsies.
  • Provides training to forensic technicians, investigators, photographers, interns, and other personnel assisting in the medicolegal death investigation.
  • Provides assistance and guidance to the organ donor centers.
  • Participates in regional disaster preparedness.
  • Presents lectures for students, officers, and the general community.
  • Maintains current knowledge of industry, regulatory and legislative developments affecting the operations of the Coroner's Office.
  • Write policy and SOP's as it relates to the daily operation of the Coroner's office and staff.
  • Develop a fully-accredited post-graduate Forensic Pathologist Fellowship training program to include academic and hands-on instruction in the field of forensics, anthropology, odontology, criminalistics, toxicology and firearms.
  • Participate in weekly / monthly meetings and provide feedback for death review teams and social media content.
  • Assist Program Director with the implementation of continuing education lectures, presentations and sourcing educators and topics.
  • Complete requirements for office accreditation to include IACME, NAME.
  • Conduct research for the purpose of publishing studies of new concepts and advances as it relates to the field of forensic sciences.
  • Search and apply for grants specific to medicolegal investigations, office functions and personnel.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualification Requirements:

  • Must be a licensed as a physician to practice medicine in the State of Pennsylvania.
  • Must be a pathologist board certified by the American Board of Pathology in anatomic, and forensic pathology.
  • Skilled in performing autopsies, external examinations, and medical records reviews of decedents, with three years of experience working in a Coroner or Medical Examiner's Office.
  • 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.
  • Must have a valid PA driver's license.

Physical Demands:

While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to lift, move or carry objects up to 50 pounds; ascend or descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles; utilize feet and legs or hands and arms; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or navigating narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces; bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs; move about on hands and knees or hands and feet; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects; and to reach with hands and arms. Occasionally incumbent maybe required to push/pull objects in excess of 100 pounds.

Work Environment

  • Employee may be exposed to health and environmental hazards.
  • Standard work hours must be flexible, and may include days, evenings, overnights, weekends, and holidays. May be greater than 37.5 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.