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Forensics Pathologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Forensic Pathologist III/IV

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$223K - $351K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forensic Pathologist III $107.50 - $153.78 Hourly $18,633.71 - $26,655.56 Monthly $223,604.49 - $319,866.73 Annually Forensic Pathologist IV $118.25 - $169.15 Hourly $20,495.94 - $29,319.69 Monthly ...

The Forensic Pathologist is a single position assigned to the Sheriff's Office and performs related duties as assigned. Typical Tasks Develop and manage a regional pathology model, including ...

Chief Forensic Pathologist

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$318K - $420K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

This position will direct and coordinate the forensic pathology activities of the Sheriff/Coroner/Public Administrator's Office; to determine the cause and manner of death of the deceased who are in ...

Forensic Pathologist Level I/II

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$306K - $342K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forensic Pathologists assigned Standby shifts receive 12.5% of their base salary for each hour assigned. To learn more about this incredible opportunity, please click on the below link to view the ...

Chief Forensic Pathologist

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$379K - $418K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Chief Forensic Pathologist is eligible for a ten percent (10%) differential upon completion of an accredited training program, with or without Board certification, in one or more of the following ...

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Forensics Pathologist information

See California salary details

$14

$40

$57

How much do forensics pathologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensics pathologist in California is $40.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.78 and $47.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Forensics Pathologist vs Medical Examiner?

AspectForensics PathologistMedical Examiner
CredentialsMedical degree, pathology residency, board certification in forensic pathologyMedical degree, pathology residency, often board-certified in forensic pathology or anatomic pathology
Work EnvironmentMedical examiner's office, morgues, crime scenesCoroner's or medical examiner's office, hospitals, morgues
Primary RolePerforming autopsies to determine cause of death, analyzing forensic evidenceInvestigating deaths, determining cause and manner of death, testifying in court

While both Forensics Pathologists and Medical Examiners perform autopsies and work in death investigations, Forensics Pathologists specialize in forensic autopsies and evidence analysis, often working in crime scene contexts. Medical Examiners may have broader roles in death investigations, including administrative duties. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, but their primary focus differs slightly.

How many years is it to become a forensic pathologist?

Becoming a forensic pathologist typically requires about 13 to 15 years of education and training, including a bachelor's degree, four years of medical school, a residency in pathology, and a fellowship in forensic pathology. This extensive training ensures proficiency in autopsy procedures, pathology techniques, and legal aspects of forensic investigations.

Is forensic pathology a good career?

Forensic pathology is a specialized medical field involving the investigation of death through autopsies and evidence analysis. It requires medical training, certification, and strong attention to detail, often involving irregular hours and emotional challenges. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in criminal justice and medical science, with job stability and growth prospects in forensic laboratories and medical examiner offices.

Is it hard to get a job as a forensic pathologist?

Securing a job as a forensic pathologist can be competitive due to the specialized nature of the field, which requires medical training, pathology residency, and often board certification. Job availability depends on factors such as location, experience, and the number of openings in forensic laboratories or medical examiner offices. Building relevant skills and gaining experience through internships or fellowships can improve employment prospects.

What jobs can you get as a forensic pathologist?

A forensic pathologist typically works in medical examiner or coroner offices, hospitals, or forensic laboratories, performing autopsies and determining causes of death. They may also work in crime scene investigation, legal consultation, or research settings, often requiring certification and knowledge of pathology, toxicology, and forensic science.

What job categories do people searching Forensics Pathologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensics Pathologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Forensics Pathologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forensics Pathologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensics Pathologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,804 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Forensic Pathologist - Board Eligible/Board Certified

GovernmentJobs.com

Auburn, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Forensic Pathologist

$233,000 - $327,371 plus a comprehensive benefits package

Placer County is currently accepting applications for the position of Forensic Pathologist in the Sheriff's department. This is an extraordinary career opportunity to join a progressive and innovative County located in scenic Northern California. Placer County is an award-winning organization. The County seeks to attract highly qualified candidates for consideration that bring credibility, passion, and an innovative approach to the delivery of services to the community.

The Placer County Sheriff's Office's new state-of-the-art Coroner's facility spans 20,000 square feet. It includes an 1,800 square foot autopsy complex with five autopsy stations along with an observance deck for Sheriff's Office staff. We understand the amount of stress and grief family members exhibit when losing their loved one. The new facility features a dedicated family meeting space. Providing the highest level of public service to our community and families is the number one priority for the Placer County Sheriff's Office. We are honored and proud to be able to continue being good advocates through more sophisticated forensic technologies and significantly expanded building capacity.

The best-qualified candidates will have graduated from an accredited Forensic Pathology Fellowship Program. To be eligible for hire as a Forensic Pathologist - Board Eligible it is required that the applicant have training in the specialty of forensic pathology and is qualified to take the examination to obtain Board Certification in Forensic Pathology. To be eligible for hire as a Forensic Pathologist - Board Certified possession of Board Certification in Forensic Pathology is required.

Placer County is an equal opportunity employer.