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Medical Examiner Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harris County

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX

$300K/yr

The Assistant Medical Examiner conducts medicolegal death investigations pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 49.25, including external examination of decedents as well as complete and ...

Harris County

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX

$300K/yr

The Assistant Medical Examiner conducts medicolegal death investigations pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 49.25, including external examination of decedents as well as complete and ...

Johnson County Kansas

Deputy Medical Examiner

Olathe, KS

$201K - $281K/yr

... assistant students to foster education in forensic pathology. Help students develop topics for ... Represents the Medical Examiner's Office by attending and presenting at public and governmental ...

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Medical Examiner Assistant information

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$36.5K

$164.7K

$337K

How much do medical examiner assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical examiner assistant in the United States is $164,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $268,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical examiner assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Examiner Assistant, you need a background in forensic science, biology, or a related field, often with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and relevant laboratory experience. Familiarity with autopsy procedures, laboratory instruments, and case management software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate evidence handling, support legal investigations, and uphold the integrity of the forensic process.

What are some common challenges medical examiner assistants face in their daily work?

Medical Examiner Assistants often encounter emotionally challenging situations, as they work closely with decedents and grieving families. The role requires meticulous attention to detail when assisting with autopsies, collecting evidence, and preparing reports. Managing a high caseload and adhering to strict protocols can be demanding, but strong teamwork and communication skills help navigate these challenges. Adaptability and a professional demeanor are essential traits to succeed in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Medical Examiner Assistant vs Forensic Technician?

AspectMedical Examiner AssistantForensic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require post-secondary trainingHigh school diploma; specialized training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentMedical examiner offices, morgues, crime labsCrime labs, morgues, forensic laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, medical examiner officesLaw enforcement agencies, forensic labs
Common Search & ComparisonMedical Examiner Assistant vs Forensic Technician

The Medical Examiner Assistant and Forensic Technician roles share similarities in work environments and industry usage, often supporting forensic investigations and autopsies. However, Medical Examiner Assistants typically have more direct involvement in assisting medical examiners with case preparation, while Forensic Technicians focus more on evidence collection and lab analysis. Both roles require relevant training and are vital in forensic and death investigation processes.

What is a medical examiner assistant?

Medical Examiner Assistants are professionals who support medical examiners or forensic pathologists in investigating deaths, particularly those that are sudden, unexpected, or suspicious. Their duties include assisting with autopsies, collecting and preserving evidence, maintaining records, and sometimes communicating with law enforcement or families. They play a vital role in ensuring accurate death investigations and help maintain the integrity of forensic processes. Medical Examiner Assistants often have backgrounds in healthcare, laboratory science, or criminal justice, and they may work in morgues, public health departments, or forensic labs.

What does a medical examiner assistant do?

As a medical examiner assistant, you assist with forensic examinations to help determine the cause of death. You assist with evidence and sample collection, prepare bodies for autopsy, and perform tasks like weighing organs and preparing for toxicology tests. Additionally, you have administrative duties like labeling samples, updating records, protecting the chain of custody, and even dealing with budgets and supply inventory. You also write reports and organize research for use by law enforcement and the courts and assist with identification of subjects using scars, tattoos, and other markings. Ultimately, your responsibilities revolve around helping the medical examiner remain focused, effective, and efficient.

More about Medical Examiner Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Medical Examiner Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Medical Examiner Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Examiner jobs? The most popular types of Medical Examiner jobs are:
What states have the most Medical Examiner Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Medical Examiner Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Medical Examiner Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Medical Examiner Assistant jobs are:
Medical Examiner Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Examiner Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $164,731 per year, or $79.2 per hour.

Medical Examiner Assistant I - Boston

Chief Medical Examiner

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

This position is for the overnight shift. Duties and Responsibilities:
- Ability to pass a full background check, which will include a driving history inquiry.
- Must be able to operate OCME vehicles while abiding to all Massachusetts State Driving Statutes and Regulations.
- A clean driving history is required for consideration. Must maintain a clean driving history as an OCME employee.
- Ability to lift and move human remains up to 250 lbs. with assistance and upwards of 70 lbs. independently.
- Assists the Medical Examiner in all aspects of the forensic autopsy.
- Must be able to follow and adhere to specific Standard Operating Procedures and become proficient in all skills associated with the autopsy and autopsy services.
- Assist in preparation and evisceration of the bodies.
- Assist in the collection of tissue and fluid/ toxicology samples.
- Responsible for appropriate handling, labeling, and for accurately entering specimens and evidentiary information into computer systems.
- Required to operate all autopsy and mortuary related equipment.
- Responsible for daily cleaning and disinfection of the autopsy suite and surgical instruments.
- Responsible for dispatching and responding to scenes and medical facilities.
- Responsible for moving, lifting, preparing, positioning, photographing, and storing remains on scene and at a medical examiner facility.
- Interact with both private and public entities.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
This requisition will remain open until filled; however, first consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days. MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS Applicants must possess an Associate's Degree or Certification from a technical school in a science or medical field. Incumbents are required to possess a valid Motor Vehicle License at a class level specific to assignment. Incumbents must have standard immunizations. Applicants are required to undergo a medical evaluation and must pass this evaluation/test to be fit tested to wear a respirator.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

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