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Forensic Pathology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do forensic pathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensic pathology assistant in the United States is $55.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.51 and $67.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do I need to become a forensic pathologist assistant?

To become a forensic pathology assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in biology, anatomy, or a related field, along with experience working in a medical or laboratory setting. Some positions require certification or specialized training in forensic science or pathology assistance, and strong attention to detail and communication skills are essential.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Forensic Pathology Assistant?

As a Forensic Pathology Assistant, your daily tasks often include preparing morgue facilities, assisting with autopsies, collecting and labeling biological samples, maintaining detailed records, and ensuring proper chain of custody for evidence. You may also handle specimen photography, help clean and sterilize equipment, and interact with law enforcement or medical staff as needed. The work is highly detail-oriented and often performed as part of a specialized team under the supervision of a forensic pathologist. This role requires balancing technical tasks with a respect for legal procedures and the sensitivity of the situations involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Forensic Pathology Assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Pathology Assistant, you need a background in biological sciences or mortuary science, technical laboratory skills, and attention to detail, often supported by an associate's degree or relevant certification. Proficiency with autopsy instruments, specimen handling protocols, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, emotional resilience, and organizational skills set top candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate, respectful handling of sensitive materials and effective support of forensic pathologists in a high-stakes environment.

What is the highest salary for a pathologist assistant?

The highest salary for a forensic pathology assistant typically exceeds $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Senior or specialized assistants working in large medical examiner offices or with advanced skills may earn higher compensation. Salary ranges can vary based on the complexity of cases and institutional budgets.

What do forensic pathology assistants do?

Forensic pathology assistants support forensic pathologists by preparing bodies for examination, collecting evidence, and documenting findings during autopsies. They often handle tasks such as taking photographs, maintaining equipment, and managing case records, requiring knowledge of medical terminology and attention to detail. The role typically involves working in a morgue or medical examiner's office and may require certification or training in forensic science or pathology support.

How long does it take to be a forensic pathologist assistant?

Becoming a forensic pathology assistant typically requires completing a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology or anatomy, which takes about four years, followed by a specialized master's program in forensic pathology assisting that lasts approximately two years. Additional on-the-job training and certification may be needed, making the total pathway around six to eight years.

What is a Forensic Pathology Assistant job?

A Forensic Pathology Assistant supports forensic pathologists in autopsies and death investigations. They help examine bodies, collect and document evidence, and may prepare reports. Their work aids in determining causes of death, often in cases involving crime, accidents, or unexplained circumstances. They typically work in medical examiner’s offices, hospitals, or forensic laboratories.

More about Forensic Pathology Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Forensic Pathology Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Forensic Pathology Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Pathology jobs? The most popular types of Forensic Pathology jobs are:
What states have the most Forensic Pathology Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Forensic Pathology Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forensic Pathology Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,082 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Forensic Pathology Assistant

Forensic Pathology Assistant

HNL Lab Medicine

Allentown, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


HNL Lab Medicine rating

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Work Schedule:

Monday-Friday (6:30 AM-3:00 PM) with variable Saturday and Holiday rotation

Assist and supports forensic pathology processes in the preparation and day to day duties of autopsies and other related functions all under the direction of the attending Forensic Pathologist.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Prepares autopsy suite for postmortem examinations. Maintain cleanliness and organization of the autopsy suite.
  • Assists Forensic Pathologist with dissections and evisceration during autopsies. Ability to collect specimen, evidence, and digital photographs at the time of autopsy under the direction of the Forensic Pathologist.
  • Facilitates communication between the Forensic Pathologist, Coroner's Office, investigative agencies and laboratory staff as required.
  • Reviews authorization for autopsies not under Coroner's jurisdiction.
  • Takes clinical histories and schedules autopsies; review and send out completed autopsy reports; prepare and set up Neuropathology conferences.
  • Assists Forensic Pathologist in teaching residents, medical students, pathologists' assistant students and physician assistant students.
  • Supply and maintain an active morgue facility including the entry of appropriate information in to autopsy database and cataloging photographs.
  • Ensure the proper storage and handling of specimens in accordance with applicable regulations and standard operating procedures.
  • Send out tissue specimens, as required for further analysis/examination by experts (i.e. Cardiopathology).
  • Complies with all Federal and State Inspection Agency's protocols.
  • Participates in Continuous System Improvement (CSI) and continuing education programs.
QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with

disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience:

High school diploma or general education degree (GED); Two years in a clinical

environment with data processing/specimen handling experience. A.S degree preferred or an equivalent demonstration of education and experience. Graduate of health/

medical assistant or similar training program from an accredited institution where general laboratory technique is taught.

Language Ability:

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions in English. Ability to write simple correspondence in English. Ability to effectively present information to one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

Math Ability:

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Must have the ability to perform all duties with accuracy and attention to detail.

Computer Skills:

Ability to use Laboratory Information System in addition to various other software programs.

Certificates and Licenses:

No certifications needed.

HNL Lab Medicine is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with, and where applicable, in addition to federal, state and local employment regulations, Lehigh Valley Health Network will provide employment opportunities to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or other such protected classes as may be defined by law. All personnel actions and programs will adhere to this policy. Personnel actions and programs include, but are not limited to recruitment, selection, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, educational programs and/or social activities.

Address:

1255 S Cedar Crest Blvd

Primary Location:

Allentown- 1255 Cedar Crest

Position Type:

Onsite

Department:

1046-00072 FPA

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