... forensic pathology. Demonstrates gross pathology protocols and procedures to new trainees. May ... Alternatively, has completed Bachelor's Degree in Sciences with background in physiology and ...
... forensic pathology. Demonstrates gross pathology protocols and procedures to new trainees. May ... Alternatively, has completed Bachelor's Degree in Sciences with background in physiology and ...
Forensic Science Trainee information
See Michigan salary details
$35.7K - $43.3K
12% of jobs
$50.3K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$43.3K - $50.9K
15% of jobs
$50.9K - $58.6K
8% of jobs
$58.6K - $66.2K
9% of jobs
The median wage is $69.2K / yr.
$66.2K - $73.8K
15% of jobs
$73.8K - $81.4K
9% of jobs
$81.4K - $89K
3% of jobs
$92.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$89K - $96.6K
7% of jobs
$96.6K - $104.2K
8% of jobs
$104.2K - $111.8K
7% of jobs
$111.8K - $119.4K
5% of jobs
$35.7K
$76.6K
$119.4K
How much do forensic science trainee jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic science trainee in Michigan is $76,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What types of hands-on training and mentorship can a Forensic Science Trainee expect during their first year?
As a Forensic Science Trainee, you can expect to receive comprehensive hands-on training that includes shadowing experienced forensic scientists, participating in laboratory analysis, and learning to follow strict evidence handling protocols. During your first year, you'll likely rotate through various sections such as DNA, toxicology, or trace evidence, gaining exposure to different forensic techniques. Mentorship is a key part of the role, with senior staff guiding you through casework, quality assurance procedures, and courtroom testimony preparation. This structured approach helps build your technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of chain-of-custody requirements.
What is the difference between Forensic Science Trainee vs Forensic Laboratory Technician?
| Aspect | Forensic Science Trainee | Forensic Laboratory Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Typically a bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, or chemistry; training programs | Associate's or bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or related field |
| Work Environment | Training setting, supervised environment, often in labs or crime scenes | Full-time lab work, analyzing evidence under supervision |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Law enforcement agencies, forensic labs, crime scene units | Crime labs, law enforcement agencies, forensic facilities |
In summary, a Forensic Science Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience, often under supervision. A Forensic Laboratory Technician is a more experienced role responsible for conducting evidence analysis independently. Both roles require relevant degrees, but the trainee position emphasizes training and development.
What does a Forensic Science Trainee do?
A Forensic Science Trainee assists experienced forensic scientists in the collection, analysis, and preservation of physical evidence from crime scenes. They typically work in laboratories or at crime scenes, learning techniques such as fingerprint analysis, DNA testing, and chemical analysis of substances. Trainees gain hands-on experience while following strict protocols to ensure evidence integrity. Over time, they develop the skills necessary to analyze evidence, write reports, and may eventually testify in court as expert witnesses.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Science Trainee, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Forensic Science Trainee, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, evidence handling procedures, and standard analytical software like LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help trainees accurately process evidence and present findings. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the integrity of evidence and supporting the justice system through reliable scientific analysis.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Science jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Forensic Science jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Science Trainee jobs in Michigan? For Forensic Science Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Science Trainee jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Science Trainee jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Forensic Science Trainee jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Forensic Science Trainee job openings:
Full-time
Posted 7 days ago
Wayne State University rating
7.6
Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
258th of 560 rated colleges and universities
Job description
Pathologists' Assistant - Medical Examiner's Office
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Pathologists' Assistant - Medical Examiner's Office at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Job Purpose:
Assists and provides technical assistance in the performance of autopsy and surgical pathology services under general supervision of Pathologist. Describes and examines autopsy specimens, performs autopsy pro-section, obtains appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation, and describes findings. Assists Pathologists in the preparation, grossing, and dissection of autopsy specimens. Reports to Administrative Manager.
Essential Functions:
Performs complex procedures including preparation for medical laboratory tests for diagnosis. Performs postmortem procedure with organ block dissection and histology tissue preparation. Ensures integrity of toxicology samples, including packaging and preparation for shipment. Performs evisceration, toxicology sample collection, photography, and radiography.
Reviews pertinent information and data for presentation to attending pathologist. Provide training to rotating medical students and Pathologists' Assistant students. Provides training of new techniques to autopsy technicians. Communicates ideas and suggestions for the improvement of autopsy protocols in accordance with Lean Principles. Conducts training seminars, instructing pathologists' assistant students in the techniques and protocols of the autopsy and gross autopsy/forensic pathology. Demonstrates gross pathology protocols and procedures to new trainees.
May assist with sections/specimens utilizing cryostat, stains, and coverslip slides; maintains frozen section equipment. Identifies special techniques and procedures to be utilized in the completion of the examination (ex: bacterial and viral cultures). Completes and ensures integrity of information entered electronic database.
Assists in family-physician communications if required. Evaluates and maintains autopsy room equipment needs and supply needs. Enters data from analysis of medical tests or clinical results into computer for storage. Establishes or monitors quality assurance programs or activities to ensure the accuracy of laboratory results. Sets up, cleans, and maintains laboratory equipment.
Assists in cataloging autopsy photographs. Conducts medical research under direction of pathologists, microbiologists, or biochemists. Conducts medical research under direction of forensic pathologist or anthropologist. Analyzes or collects samples of biological material for chemical content or reaction.
Performs other related duties as assigned. Transfers and handles body from morgue to autopsy table.
Unique duties:
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree
Requires graduation from an accredited Bachelor's or Masters Pathologists' Assistant program. Alternatively, has completed Bachelor's Degree in Sciences with background in physiology and anatomy and a minimum of 3 years of experience in Pathology.
Must be eligible for certification as a Pathologist's Assistant by the American Society for Clinical Pathology
and complete certification within 2 years of hire. Must maintain certification by completing continuing education requirements.
Certification as a Pathologists' Assistant by the American Society for Clinical Pathology is preferred.
Experience: 1 or more years experience
Requires a minimum of 1 year of professional experience in Pathology including previous experience assisting with gross description and dissection of surgical tissue; 3 years of experience preferred. Experience assisting with autopsies is preferred.
Preferred qualifications:
Compensation: Dependent upon the candidate's education, skills, and experience
School/College/Division:
H06 - School of Medicine
Primary department:
H0689
Employment type:
Job openings:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Pathologists' Assistant - Medical Examiner's Office at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
Job Purpose:
Assists and provides technical assistance in the performance of autopsy and surgical pathology services under general supervision of Pathologist. Describes and examines autopsy specimens, performs autopsy pro-section, obtains appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation, and describes findings. Assists Pathologists in the preparation, grossing, and dissection of autopsy specimens. Reports to Administrative Manager.
Essential Functions:
Performs complex procedures including preparation for medical laboratory tests for diagnosis. Performs postmortem procedure with organ block dissection and histology tissue preparation. Ensures integrity of toxicology samples, including packaging and preparation for shipment. Performs evisceration, toxicology sample collection, photography, and radiography.
Reviews pertinent information and data for presentation to attending pathologist. Provide training to rotating medical students and Pathologists' Assistant students. Provides training of new techniques to autopsy technicians. Communicates ideas and suggestions for the improvement of autopsy protocols in accordance with Lean Principles. Conducts training seminars, instructing pathologists' assistant students in the techniques and protocols of the autopsy and gross autopsy/forensic pathology. Demonstrates gross pathology protocols and procedures to new trainees.
May assist with sections/specimens utilizing cryostat, stains, and coverslip slides; maintains frozen section equipment. Identifies special techniques and procedures to be utilized in the completion of the examination (ex: bacterial and viral cultures). Completes and ensures integrity of information entered electronic database.
Assists in family-physician communications if required. Evaluates and maintains autopsy room equipment needs and supply needs. Enters data from analysis of medical tests or clinical results into computer for storage. Establishes or monitors quality assurance programs or activities to ensure the accuracy of laboratory results. Sets up, cleans, and maintains laboratory equipment.
Assists in cataloging autopsy photographs. Conducts medical research under direction of pathologists, microbiologists, or biochemists. Conducts medical research under direction of forensic pathologist or anthropologist. Analyzes or collects samples of biological material for chemical content or reaction.
Performs other related duties as assigned. Transfers and handles body from morgue to autopsy table.
Unique duties:
Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree
Requires graduation from an accredited Bachelor's or Masters Pathologists' Assistant program. Alternatively, has completed Bachelor's Degree in Sciences with background in physiology and anatomy and a minimum of 3 years of experience in Pathology.
Must be eligible for certification as a Pathologist's Assistant by the American Society for Clinical Pathology
and complete certification within 2 years of hire. Must maintain certification by completing continuing education requirements.
Certification as a Pathologists' Assistant by the American Society for Clinical Pathology is preferred.
Experience: 1 or more years experience
Requires a minimum of 1 year of professional experience in Pathology including previous experience assisting with gross description and dissection of surgical tissue; 3 years of experience preferred. Experience assisting with autopsies is preferred.
Preferred qualifications:
Compensation: Dependent upon the candidate's education, skills, and experience
School/College/Division:
H06 - School of Medicine
Primary department:
H0689
Employment type:
- Regular Employee
- Job type: Full Time
- Job category: Staff/Administrative
- Compensation type: Annual Salary
- Hourly rate:
- Salary minimum: TBD
- Salary hire maximum: TBD
Job openings:
- Number of openings: 1
- Reposted position: No
- Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
- Prior posting/requisition number:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
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About Wayne State University
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Colleges, universities, and professional schools
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Detroit, MI, US
Year founded
1868