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Forensic Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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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 Jul 15, 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.

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 often work in medical examiner or coroner offices with irregular hours.

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 often need strong academic records, relevant experience, and certification from 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 would I do as a forensic pathologist?

A forensic pathologist examines deceased individuals to determine cause and manner of death, often performing autopsies and collecting evidence. They work closely with law enforcement, document findings, and may testify in court, requiring knowledge of pathology, anatomy, and legal procedures. The role typically involves detailed reports and may require certification from relevant medical boards.

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.

What are the 7 steps to become a forensic pathologist?

Becoming a forensic pathologist typically involves completing a bachelor's degree, followed by medical school to earn an MD or DO degree. After medical school, one must complete a residency in pathology, then pursue a fellowship in forensic or forensic pathology. Certification by a relevant medical board and gaining practical experience are also essential steps in the process.
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Infographic showing various Forensic Pathologist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $219,325 per year, or $105.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

TinkBird Healthcare Staffing is seeking a Board-Eligible or Board-Certified Forensic Pathologist for a full-time position in Greenville, North Carolina. This opportunity offers a dynamic academic and medicolegal environment, excellent resources, and the ability to contribute to a growing forensic program serving a large multi-county region.
Position Details
  • Job Type: Permanent
  • Specialty: Forensic Pathology
  • Location: Greenville, NC
  • Schedule: Full-time with shared responsibilities within the autopsy service
  • Setting: Academic forensic pathology center and hospital-based pathology department
  • Team: Two forensic pathologists and a pathologist assistant
  • Volume: medical examiner autopsies annually/ external exams/ hospital (medical) autopsies
Role Overview & Responsibilities
  • Conduct medical examiner autopsies including evidence collection
  • Determine cause and manner of death
  • Perform microscopic evaluations when indicated
  • Direct staff in body preparation and forensic documentation
  • Review investigative materials to determine jurisdiction
  • Prepare timely written reports
  • Consult with law enforcement, legal teams, and medical professionals
  • Provide expert witness testimony in court
  • Teach medical students, residents, fellows, and law enforcement personnel
  • Participate in academic and research activities as desired
Requirements
  • Board Certification in Anatomic Pathology (AP) or Anatomic & Clinical Pathology (AP/CP)
  • Board Certification or Eligibility in Forensic Pathology
  • Knowledge of medicolegal death investigation practices
  • Strong communication, documentation, and courtroom testimony skills
Program & Facility Highlights
  • New $35 million, 25,000 sq. ft. forensic pathology center breaking ground in 2026
  • Level I trauma, 974-bed academic medical center
  • Robust pathology and laboratory medicine department with residency and fellowship programs
  • Fully integrated Epic EMR
  • Stable health system with strong academic partnerships
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
  • Relocation assistance
Opportunities for:
  • Loan repayment
  • Sign-on bonus
  • Income guarantees
  • Residency/fellowship commitment stipends
  • Supportive academic environment with access to research and teaching resources
About TinkBird Healthcare Staffing
TinkBird is a comprehensive healthcare recruiting and job placement firm for locum tenens and permanent medical placements. Serving nationwide, we focus on providing quality matches, superior customer service with full transparency, and a hassle-free medical staffing experience to both providers and healthcare facilities.
Interested candidates should email their CV to Kayla Garza at or call/text her at .