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Military Forensic Pathologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Military Forensic Pathologist information

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$41.5K

$219.3K

$320K

How much do military forensic pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for military forensic pathologist in the United States is $219,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $183,000.00 and $274,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some unique challenges faced by Military Forensic Pathologists compared to their civilian counterparts?

Military Forensic Pathologists often work in environments that can be more austere or unpredictable than civilian settings, sometimes including deployment to conflict zones. They may handle cases related to combat injuries, mass casualties, or incidents involving advanced weaponry, which require specialized training and adaptability. Additionally, these professionals collaborate closely with military investigators, legal teams, and international agencies, demanding strong communication skills and a deep understanding of military protocols. This role also offers opportunities to contribute to identification missions and humanitarian efforts, making it both challenging and highly impactful.

What are military forensic pathologists?

Military forensic pathologists are medical doctors specializing in determining the cause of death by examining bodies, tissues, and organs, particularly within the context of the armed forces. They perform autopsies on deceased military personnel, investigate suspicious or unexplained deaths, and provide expert testimony for military courts. Their work is critical for both medical and legal investigations, helping to ensure justice and proper care for service members. They may also consult on issues of trauma, injury patterns, and identification of remains during conflicts or disasters.

What is the difference between Military Forensic Pathologist vs Forensic Pathologist?

AspectMilitary Forensic Pathologist
CredentialsMedical degree, pathology residency, forensic pathology certification, military clearance
Work EnvironmentMilitary hospitals, field operations, military cemeteries
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, military medical facilities
Common Search IntentMilitary forensic roles, military medical careers

While both roles require medical degrees and forensic pathology certification, Military Forensic Pathologists work within military settings, often handling cases related to service members and operating under military protocols. In contrast, Forensic Pathologists typically work in civilian medical examiner offices or hospitals, focusing on criminal investigations and civil cases. The key difference lies in their work environment and employer, with Military Forensic Pathologists serving the armed forces and Forensic Pathologists serving civilian agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Military Forensic Pathologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Military Forensic Pathologist, you need a medical degree (MD or DO), board certification in pathology, and specialized forensic pathology training, often including military protocols. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, autopsy equipment, and forensic information systems is essential, along with any required security clearances. Sharp analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate cause-of-death determinations, support military investigations, and uphold legal and ethical standards in challenging environments.
Infographic showing various Military Forensic Pathologist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $219,325 per year, or $105.4 per hour.

Investigator/ME Field Agent - Medical Examiner's Office

Fort Bend County

Rosenberg, TX • On-site

$37.29 - $46.62/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Fort Bend County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

299th of 645 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Current Fort Bend County Employees (excluding election workers): Please click here to apply through the internal Workday Jobs Hub. If you cannot access the Jobs Hub, please contact Human Resources.
Fort Bend County is ranked as one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. We have capitalized on not only the creed of our location, but on the "quality of life" for our families to call home. Our employees are the key to our success and the heartbeat of our foundation. The diversity and inclusivity of our community is our strength and at the forefront of a workplace environment welcoming to all. Live Here! Work Here!
  • Conducts death scene investigations, which includes visiting death scene, drawing diagrams, taking photographs, interviewing witnesses, family members, police or other pertinent individuals to obtain information about circumstances surrounding death; examines decedent for wounds or other evidence pertinent to death; Serves subpoenas enforceable by law; Enforces the law pertaining to hindering or obstructing a lawful death inquest
  • Prepares written investigative reports on investigative findings and observations
  • Contacts physicians and medical facilities to obtain medical information pertinent to death investigation
  • Coordinates identification measures in all cases, particularly in cases of unidentified decedents
  • Contacts next of kin regarding disposition of decedent
  • Receives calls from news media and releases appropriate information regarding cases
  • Serves as a liaison with law enforcement agencies, coordinating exchange of information regarding cases
  • Consults with Medical Examiners regarding necessary follow-up information required for case investigation
  • Maintains the safety and security of the building and its occupants; Addresses issues with the public, issue warning and make arrest if necessary
  • Performs other duties as required.
  • Participates in activities and duties related to emergency management during a local state of disaster as directed by appropriate county managers.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma/GED and 4 years experience as a Death Investigator

OR
  • Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Forensics, Medical or job related field and no experience

OR
  • Registered Nurse and 4 years nursing experience

OR
  • HS Diploma/GED, Master TCOLE certification and 4 years investigative experience**
  • Must have knowledge of Texas State Medical Examiner Act and related statutes along with knowledge of crime scene investigation and procedures.
  • Knowledge of criminal justice system.
  • Knowledge of human anatomy, health care systems, basic pathophysiology and medical terminology.
  • Skills in identification and assessment of wounds; photography; fingerprinting and other identification techniques.
  • Good written and oral communication skills required, along with excellent computer skills, including word processing required.
  • Ability to maintain security of work area, evidence, and information is required and must be able to respond to inquiries from public and official agencies with pleasant, effective and professional manner.
  • Ability to work well with other agencies to facilitate effective investigation and appropriate services for decedents and their families.
  • Certification through the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI), or obtain within 6 months of employment.
  • Night Shift/Weekends required.

SALARY RANGE: $28.80 - $36.00 hourly based on qualifications
**Candidates that hold a TCOLE Master Peace Officer certification or higher may be eligible for the Law Enforcement Salary Range of $37.29 - $46.62 hourly based on qualifications.
CLOSING DATE: Upon filling position
All full-time and part-time employees are members of the Texas County District Retirement System (TCDRS). Full-time employees also enjoy a wide-range of great benefits.
Fort Bend County is an equal opportunity employer, committed to non-discrimination in employment on any basis including race, color, religion or creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy status (including childbirth and related medical conditions), national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, age (40 and over), physical or mental disability, genetic information, protected military and veteran status, political affiliation or beliefs, or any other classification protected by state, federal and local laws, unless such classification is a bona fide occupational qualification.
For more information on Fort Bend County's Title VI / Nondiscrimination Statement, visit www.fbctx.gov/comply
Fort Bend County is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities. FBC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and all other applicable federal, state and local laws regarding disability discrimination and accommodation.

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