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Forensics Pathologist Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Forensics Pathologist information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$14

$40

$57

How much do forensics pathologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensics pathologist in Detroit, MI is $40.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.88 and $47.60 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 are popular job titles related to Forensics Pathologist jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Forensics Pathologist jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensics Pathologist jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensics Pathologist jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Forensics Pathologist jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Forensics Pathologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensics Pathologist job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,064 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Pathologists' Assistant - Medical Examiner's Office

Detroit, MI


Wayne State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

290th of 623 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

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. 


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