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Forensic Pathology Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Assistant Medical Examiners both at the time of autopsy examination and in subsequent more ... Expertise in forensic neuropathology, forensic pathology, general anatomic pathology, and broad ...

... Assistant Medical Examiners both at the time of autopsy examination and in subsequent more ... Expertise in forensic neuropathology, forensic pathology, general anatomic pathology, and broad ...

Summary The Autopsy Technician will assist the Forensic Pathologist in the performance of autopsies, including preparation of the body for autopsy, photography, directly supervised dissections ...

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Forensic Pathology Assistant information

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How much do forensic pathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,082 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Forensic Neuropathologist

Forensic Neuropathologist

Harris County

Houston, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Harris County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 118 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

307th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description Mission The Mission of the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is to provide medical examiner and crime laboratory services of the highest quality in an unbiased manner with uncompromised integrity. Vision To provide consistent, quality death investigation and laboratory analysis for the benefit of the entire community. To create a technological strongpoint for legal agencies to facilitate justice in criminal and civil proceedings.

To establish an academic environment for training in the field of Forensic Science. Brief Forensic Neuropathologist Overview: The Forensic Neuropathologist conducts crucial components of medicolegal death investigations pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 49.25, specifically by providing specialized neuropathology examinations for various types of death; providing neuropathology consultation to Assistant Medical Examiners both at the time of autopsy examination and in subsequent more specialized examination settings; providing testimonial evidence in court on various neuropathology subjects; and teaching trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students) about various aspects of neuropathology and how those neuropathology findings impact medicolegal death investigation. Duties & Responsibilities: Conducts and completes neuropathology components of medicolegal death investigations pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 49.25, including gross examination of brains, spinal cords, eyes, and other specimens as may be indicated; interpreting gross anatomic and microscopic pathology; reviewing and synthesizing of medical records and police reports in the context of neuropathology findings; and crafting timely and thorough neuropathology reports to be used as a component of full autopsy reports Provides gross neuropathology consultation to Assistant Medical Examiners during forensic autopsies, including examination of fresh specimens and formalin-fixed specimens; provides microscopic neuropathology consultation to Assistant Medical Examiners, including both histology of specimens that were examined grossly and other cases where consultation is requested for microscopic findings Provides expert testimony in criminal and civil court matters relating to neuropathology and medicolegal death investigations, including case involving neuropathology questions arising in cases for which the initial examination was performed by another pathologist; prepares for testimony by attending depositions and pretrial conferences with attorneys as needed Participates in ongoing quality assurance and quality improvement activities within the Pathology Division, including regular attendance at daily case assignment and review conferences, and weekly quality assurance and consensus conferences Is fully engaged in teaching activities at the Department including mentoring forensic pathology fellows, supervising medical residents, and providing guidance to medical students, including providing direct supervision and instruction in performance as well as instructional presentations and lectures to the Pathology and Investigations Divisions Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate. Requirements Education: Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathy (DO), or Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Licensure & Certification: Licensed to practice medicine in Texas (prior to employment) Certification by the American Board of Pathology in anatomic pathology and neuropathology Maintain a valid Texas Driver's License and maintain ability to safely operate a motor vehicle Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Expertise in forensic neuropathology, forensic pathology, general anatomic pathology, and broad foundational knowledge of other medical and surgical specialties Ability to communicate effectively and politely with lay, technical, medical, and legal audiences; ability to dictate neuropathology findings to seamlessly integrate with completed autopsy reports; and provide testimony as required in civil and criminal proceedings Must be able to calmly, effectively, and convincingly express complex analytical conclusions and medical decisions in adversarial situations Excellent time management skills, strategies, and abilities; ability to work independently with minimal supervision, prioritizing and handling multiple tasks simultaneously Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented on your job application.

You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications. Preferences Experience: Two years' experience in forensic neuropathology in hospital or medical examiner's office Experience in viewing / interpreting postmortem CT scans and / or neuroradiology scans General Information Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work: Full time; Monday - Friday Consistently requires > 40 hours per week Hours may vary based on needs of Department Must be available to work during severe weather events or other emergencies if necessary Work Environment: Office / morgue setting Potential Exposures: Routine exposure to deaths of adults and children that resulted from violence, natural disease, environmental hazards, and toxins Will be exposed to biohazardous materials and offensive odors Physical Demands: Medium work.

Requires physical strength to push, pull, and lift up to twenty (20) pounds frequently and repeatedly Must be physically able to stand for extended periods Must be able to effectively don and doff appropriate personal protective equipment (including N95 mask, gown, face protection, as well as self-contained breathing apparatus as required), and be able to wear personal protective gear for extended periods (hours) while conducting intricate postmortem examinations Reporting Relationships: Reports to: Deputy Chief Medical Examiner Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards. Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.


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About Harris County

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Harris County is the third largest county in the United States with more than 4.7 million residents. There are four precincts in Harris County. The four elected commissioners, along with an elected county judge, serve as members of the Harris County Commissioners Court, the administrative head of the county's government.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

2000

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