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Forensic Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PathGroup

Forensic Medical - Pathologist

Tyler, TX · On-site

PathGroup's forensic pathology division is seeking a Board-Certified or Board-Eligible Forensic Pathologist to support our forensic services in Tyler, Texas. This is a unique opportunity for a ...

Pinal County

Forensic Pathologist

Florence, AZ

$241K - $329K/yr

Description Are you a board-certified or board-eligible Medical Examiner/Forensic Pathologist looking for a good balance in your work life. The Pinal County Medical Examiner's Office (PCMEO) in ...

PathGroup

Forensic Medical - Pathologist

Tyler, TX · On-site

PathGroup's forensic pathology division is seeking a Board-Certified or Board-Eligible Forensic Pathologist to support our forensic services in Tyler, Texas. This is a unique opportunity for a ...

PathGroup

Forensic Medical - Pathologist

Beaumont, TX · On-site

PathGroup's forensic pathology division, Forensic Medical Management Services of Texas, is seeking a Board-Certified or Board-Eligible Forensic Pathologist to join our established team in Beaumont ...

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Forensic Pathologist information

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$41.5K

$219.3K

$320K

How much do forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic pathologist in the United States is $219,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $183,000.00 and $274,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic pathologist actually do?

A forensic pathologist is a medical doctor who investigates sudden, unexplained, or suspicious deaths by performing autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death. They examine body tissues, collect evidence, and may testify in court, often working closely with law enforcement. Certification by a medical board and knowledge of pathology techniques are essential for this role.

What can I do with a forensic pathology degree?

A forensic pathologist primarily conducts autopsies to determine cause of death, often working in medical examiner or coroner offices. They analyze evidence, prepare detailed reports, and may testify in court. This role requires medical training, pathology certification, and knowledge of legal procedures.

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 work in medical examiner or coroner offices, often with irregular hours and the use of specialized forensic tools.

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 bodies like 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 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.

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Forensic Pathologist jobs near you

Forensic Pathologist

Buffkin / Baker (Mecklenburg County (NC))

Charlotte, NC

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Mecklenburg County Government

Forensic Pathologist

Who We Are

Mecklenburg County Government is more than just a place to work. The County provides an environment where you can touch and enrich life every day in countless ways. From helping families in need of protecting the public's health, working here means you will have the opportunity to be a part of a team providing services for a large metropolitan county with a diverse population and thriving business community. It's not just a place to work - for some, it's an opportunity to serve their neighbors and make a difference in our community. For others, the role they take on fulfills a lifelong pursuit in an area of study. Whatever the reason you choose to work for the County, there is an opportunity for personal growth, professional development, and to truly make a difference in people's lives.

Why Choose Us

Work Environment Excellent

Work in a busy, well-resourced medical examiner’s office connected to the NC OCME system, with advanced facilities, county and statewide support, and a strong team culture.

Caseload Variety

Serve three counties as one of a team of three FPs and the Chief. FY2025: ~607 autopsies (427 in Mecklenburg), 946 external exams; 23% homicides, 48% overdoses.

Location

Home to over 1.1 million residents and the City of Charlotte, Meck County lies in the heart of a region that is the sixth largest urban area in the US. The growth in Meck County bolsters the workforce, enriches the cultural landscape, and drives economic grow that makes us a community of pride and choice for people to live, learn, work, and recreate.

Job Requirements

  • MD/DO from accredited school with forensic pathology training
  • ABP board-certified or eligible in Anatomic & Forensic Pathology
  • NC medical license

Salary & Benefits

A competitive salary based on experience will be offered. The range for this position is $186,000–$270,000. A generous benefits package includes medical, dental, vision care, flexible spending accounts, short- and long-term disability as well as basic and supplemental term life insurance. The FP will also be automatically enrolled into the NC Local Government Retirement System upon employment. In addition, there is optional participation in one of two deferred compensation plans, a 457 Plan or 401(k) Plan with a 5% match from the County.

For more information, email Ken Carrick, Partner, or Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner, at: ForensicPathologist@buffkinbaker.com

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