The Forensic Pathologist will be responsible for the investigation of deaths meeting jurisdictional criteria to establish cause and manner of death. Job Quick Facts: • Ref #: BD-261-05 • ...
The Forensic Pathologist will be responsible for the investigation of deaths meeting jurisdictional criteria to establish cause and manner of death. Job Quick Facts: • Ref #: BD-261-05 • ...
Customer Service Health Program Assistant I SEA26
Seattle, WA · On-site
$28.69/hr
... forensic pathologists and Death Investigators • Provide official disposition approval to funeral homes prior to death certificate filing • Review daily requests to ensure appropriate billing, and ...
Customer Service Health Program Assistant I SEA26
Seattle, WA · On-site
$28.69/hr
... forensic pathologists and Death Investigators • Provide official disposition approval to funeral homes prior to death certificate filing • Review daily requests to ensure appropriate billing, and ...
Forensic Pathologist information
See Seattle, WA salary details
$47.2K - $76K
2% of jobs
$76K - $104.9K
6% of jobs
$104.9K - $133.7K
13% of jobs
$133.7K - $162.5K
0% of jobs
$162.5K - $191.3K
3% of jobs
$198.5K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$191.3K - $220.1K
3% of jobs
$220.1K - $248.9K
9% of jobs
The median wage is $270.1K / yr.
$248.9K - $277.7K
18% of jobs
$305.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$277.7K - $306.5K
21% of jobs
$306.5K - $335.3K
15% of jobs
$335.3K - $364.2K
9% of jobs
$47.2K
$249.6K
$364.2K
How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in Seattle, WA is $249,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $208,300.00 and $311,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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.
Is forensic pathology a good career?
Forensic pathology is a specialized medical field involving the investigation of death through autopsies and evidence analysis. It requires medical training, certification, and strong attention to detail, often involving irregular hours and emotional challenges. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in criminal justice and medicine, with job opportunities available in medical examiner offices and forensic laboratories.
What is the difference between Forensic Pathologist vs Medical Examiner?
| Aspect | Forensic Pathologist |
|---|
| Required Credentials | Medical degree, pathology residency, forensic pathology fellowship, medical license |
|---|---|
| Work Environment | Autopsy suites, laboratories, crime scenes |
| Employer & Industry | Law enforcement agencies, medical examiner offices, forensic labs |
| Common Search & Comparison | Often 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?
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 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 agencies. Certification by the American Board of Pathology is typically required for these roles.
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.
More about Forensic Pathologist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Forensic Pathologist jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Pathologist jobs in Seattle, WA? For Forensic Pathologist jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Pathologist jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Pathologist jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Forensic Pathologist jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Forensic Pathologist job openings:
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Re-posted 12 days ago
Job description
Doctor of Medicine | Pathology Location: Vancouver, WA Employer: Adelphi Locums Pay: Competitive weekly pay (inquire for details) Start Date: ASAP
About the PositionLocumJobsOnline is working with Adelphi Locums to find a qualified Pathology MD in Vancouver, Washington, 98660!
Adelphi is seeking a Forensic Pathologist for a public Health facility in Vancouver, Washington. The Forensic Pathologist will be responsible for the investigation of deaths meeting jurisdictional criteria to establish cause and manner of death.
Job Quick Facts:
• Ref #: BD-261-05
• Profession: Physician
• Specialty: Forensic Pathology
• Location: Vancouver, WA
• Facility Type: Public Health facility
• Coverage Type: Onsite
• Start Date: ASAP
• Contract Length: 1 Year
Minimum Qualifications:
• WA MD/DO License
• Board certification by the American Board of Pathology
• 3-4 years of experience practicing as a Board-Certified Forensic Pathologist
Desired Competencies:
• Forensic pathology best practices, NAME accreditation standards,
and principles and practices of death investigation.
• Medical and legal aspects surrounding sudden and unnatural death; methods, practices,
equipment, and procedures of handling deceased individuals.
• Data collection, statistical analysis and report writing principles and techniques;
laws, rules, and regulations affecting certification of death, release of bodies,
custody of the property of deceased persons and related matters; medical examiner office accreditation requirements
Responsibilities:• Performs postmortem examinations and reports for suspicious death cases (e.g., homicides, infant/toddler cases).
• Retains samples, specimens, and tissues necessary for analysis, examination, and documentation.
• Prepares detailed technical examination 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.
• Confers with and provides expert testimony on cases performed as required by the Sheriff, Prosecuting Attorney, and other law enforcement officials.
• Confers with death investigators and uses judgment to determine need to attend death scenes or discovery of remains.
• Meets with family members of decedents as requested.
• Performs other related duties as required.
Top Reasons to Choose a Locum Tenens Assignment
- Adjust your work schedule to accommodate personal commitments, hobbies, or pursuits outside of medicine, promoting a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
- Bolster your CV with a diverse range of experiences, demonstrating adaptability, versatility, and a commitment to excellence.
- Explore entrepreneurial ventures in healthcare, such as locum tenens agencies or consulting services, leveraging your expertise and network gained from locum work.
- Provide essential medical services to underserved communities or during staff shortages, ensuring consistent patient care nationwide.
- Tailor your schedule to suit your lifestyle, allowing for personal commitments and travel.
1637968EXPTEMP
PandoLogic. Keywords: Forensic Pathologist, Location: Seattle, WA - 98104 , PL: 601759694