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Forensics Pathologist Jobs in Porter Ranch, CA (NOW HIRING)

RELIEF PHYSICIAN

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135.21 - $420.31/hr

... Pathology-Forensic Pediatrics Pediatrics-Neonatal/Critical Care Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Preventive Medicine Psychiatry Radiology-General/Diagnostic Radiology-Vascular/Internal Diagnostic ...

Forensics Pathologist information

See Porter Ranch, CA salary details

$15

$41

$59

How much do forensics pathologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensics pathologist in Porter Ranch, CA is $41.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.08 and $49.33 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 cities near Porter Ranch, CA are hiring for Forensics Pathologist jobs?

Cities near Porter Ranch, CA with the most Forensics Pathologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensics Pathologist job openings in Porter Ranch, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,157 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

FORENSIC PATHOLOGIST (PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

GovernmentJobs.com
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Forensic Pathologist Physician Specialist

The Department of Medical Examiner investigates and determines the circumstances, manner, and cause of all violent, sudden, or unusual deaths occurring within Los Angeles County. In 2024, approximately 18,000 deaths were reported to the Department, and we investigated 11,452 of those cases. Each year, we conduct thousands of postmortem examinations, including full autopsies, partial autopsies, and external examinations. This level of activity, along with the complexity and sensitivity of the cases handled—including numerous high-profile investigations—makes the Department one of the largest and most technologically sophisticated medical examiner's offices in the world. Our work is supported by advanced tools such as postmortem X-ray and CT imaging, which enhance our ability to determine cause and manner of death with accuracy and precision.

The County of Los Angeles offers an excellent benefits package that includes a Cafeteria Benefit Plan, Contributory Defined Benefit Retirement Plan, Deferred Compensation & Thrift Plans, and 13 paid Holidays.

The incumbent in this position serves as a licensed physician specializing in Forensic Pathology, providing advanced medical and investigative services related to the examination and determination of cause and manner of death. Reporting to a Chief Physician, the incumbent performs comprehensive forensic pathology duties in support of medico-legal death investigations.

Primary responsibilities include conducting autopsies; evaluating evidence of disease, trauma, or injury; determining cause and manner of death; reviewing laboratory, toxicology, and radiological findings; and preparing detailed medical reports and findings. The incumbent also directs and oversees forensic technicians during autopsy procedures to ensure adherence to established protocols, safety standards, and evidentiary procedures.

In addition, the position participates in the training, mentoring, and professional development of physicians assigned to residency and fellowship programs. Incumbents are expected to exercise sound professional judgment, maintain knowledge of departmental policies and procedures, and demonstrate the technical competencies and ethical standards associated with the practice of Forensic Pathology.

Completion of a residency in Anatomic Pathology or Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and a fellowship in Forensic Pathology or equivalent training approved by the American Board of Pathology. A California State Physician and Surgeon's Certificate authorized by the Board of Medical Examiners of the State of California. Certification by the American Board of Pathology in Anatomic Pathology or Anatomic and Clinical Pathology. A valid California Class C Driver License or the ability to use an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions.