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Psychological Autopsy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary The Autopsy Technician will assist the Forensic Pathologist in the performance of autopsies ... Handle the psychological effects of death. Work effectively with pathologists in the conduction of ...

$89K/yr

Experience in managing the suicide prevention program including investigating all suicide attempts and self-mutilation gestures, reviewing completed psychological autopsy reports and recommending ...

$89K/yr

Experience in managing the suicide prevention program including investigating all suicide attempts and self-mutilation gestures, reviewing completed psychological autopsy reports and recommending ...

Prepare autopsy forms and/or requisitions for specimen/evidence submission for testing/analysis ... Handle the psychological effects of death. * Work effectively with pathologists in the conduction ...

... autopsy examination and in subsequent more specialized examination settings; providing testimonial evidence in court on various neuropathology subjects; and teaching trainees (forensic pathology ...

... autopsy examination and in subsequent more specialized examination settings; providing testimonial evidence in court on various neuropathology subjects; and teaching trainees (forensic pathology ...

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Psychological Autopsy information

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$15

$32

$69

How much do psychological autopsy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for psychological autopsy in the United States is $32.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for someone conducting a psychological autopsy?

A typical day for a professional conducting a psychological autopsy involves reviewing medical and psychiatric records, interviewing family members and acquaintances of the deceased, and compiling comprehensive reports that analyze psychological and situational factors. You may spend time collaborating with law enforcement, medical examiners, and mental health professionals to gather holistic information. The role often requires sensitive communication and careful documentation, as well as the ability to synthesize complex data. While the work can be emotionally demanding, it plays a crucial role in helping families and organizations better understand and prevent similar cases in the future.

What is a Psychological Autopsy job?

A Psychological Autopsy job involves investigating a person's death, particularly in cases of suicide or uncertain causes, to determine their mental state before passing. Professionals in this role analyze medical records, interview family and friends, and review personal documents to understand psychological factors contributing to the death. This process helps law enforcement, medical examiners, and families gain insight into the circumstances surrounding the deceased's mental health. The findings may also inform suicide prevention efforts and mental health research.

What qualifications do you need to do autopsies?

Psychological autopsies are conducted by trained mental health professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or forensic experts with expertise in mental health assessment and investigation. Typically, these professionals hold advanced degrees in psychology or psychiatry, along with relevant experience in forensic or clinical settings. Certification or licensure in their respective fields is also required to perform such assessments.

Who can perform a psychological autopsy?

Psychological autopsies are typically performed by trained mental health professionals such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or forensic experts with expertise in mental health assessment and investigation. These professionals analyze medical records, interview acquaintances, and review psychological data to determine factors contributing to a person's death, often working within legal or clinical settings.

Does the FBI hire forensic psychologists?

Yes, the FBI employs forensic psychologists to assist with criminal investigations, profiling, and threat assessments. These professionals typically need a doctoral degree in psychology, relevant experience, and security clearances to work in federal law enforcement agencies.

Can I work in forensics with a psychology degree?

Psychological autopsy is a forensic psychology process that involves analyzing a person's mental state prior to death, often used in criminal investigations and legal cases. A psychology degree provides foundational knowledge, but additional training or certification in forensic psychology or related fields is typically required to work in forensic settings. Skills in assessment, report writing, and understanding legal procedures are also important for forensic roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Psychological Autopsy position, and why are they important?

To thrive in psychological autopsy work, you need a strong background in psychology or psychiatry, excellent analytical skills, and experience with case evaluation, often requiring at least a master's degree and professional licensure. Familiarity with structured interview protocols, psychological assessment tools, and forensic documentation systems is critical. Compassion, discretion, and effective communication are vital soft skills when interacting with families and multi-disciplinary teams. These competencies ensure thorough, sensitive investigations that contribute to understanding the psychological factors leading to an individual's death.

What cities are hiring for Psychological Autopsy jobs? Cities with the most Psychological Autopsy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Psychological Autopsy jobs? The most popular types of Psychological Autopsy jobs are:
What states have the most Psychological Autopsy jobs? States with the most job openings for Psychological Autopsy jobs include:
Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist)

Clinical Psychologist (Chief Psychologist)

Department of Justice

Welch, WV โ€ข On-site

$115K/yr

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities.

Qualifications:

How Do I Qualify for this Position? To be considered for the position, you must meet the following:
Basic Requirements:
Satisfactory completion of all the requirements for a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) directly related to full professional work in clinical psychology is required.
NOTE:Applicants may have received this degree in either clinical or counseling psychology.
AND
In addition to the basic requirements, you must have:
Education:
There is no substitution of education for specialized experience for this position. Experience:
At least one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and complexity to the next lower grade level. To be creditable, this experience must have equipped the applicant with the particular qualifications to successfully perform the duties of the position, and must typically be in or related to the position to be filled.ย 
Some examples of the qualifying experience are:

  • Experience in consulting with management officials or unit staff on classification of inmates displaying possible emotional problems and formulating treatment programs.
  • Experience in managing the suicide prevention program including investigating all suicide attempts and self-mutilation gestures, reviewing completed psychological autopsy reports and recommending changes in the overall program.
  • Experience in managing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and providing assessment and referral to professional resources in the community for employees on an as needed basis.

AND
Selective Factor:
Applicants applying for this position MUST also possess the following Selective Factor. In the event that you do not possess the Selective Factor, you will be found ineligible for the position.

  • Applicants must hold a full, current and unrestricted license to practice psychology at the doctoral level in a State, Territory, Commonwealth of the United States (e.g., Puerto Rico) or the District of Columbia.

NOTE: All applicants must electronically upload copy of their license at the time you apply. The documentation provided MUST show the expiration date of the license. Failure to provide this documentation will result in loss of consideration for this position.
If applicable, credit will be given for paid and unpaid experience. To receive proper credit, you must show the actual time (such as the number of hours worked per week) spent in activities.
**Your eligibility for consideration will be based on your responses to the questions in the application.**

Education:

See Qualifications Section for education requirements, if applicable.

ONLY if education is a requirement/substitution for specialized experience, applicant MUST upload legible transcripts as verification of educational requirement. Transcripts MUST be uploaded and electronically linked from USAJOBS at the time you apply and MUST include identifying information to include School Name, Student Name, Degree and Date Awarded (if applicable). All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university that has obtained accreditation or pre-accreditation status from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, Click Here.

Foreign Education: For information regarding foreign education requirements, please see Foreign Diploma and Credit Recognition at the U.S. Department of Education website: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.

If you are selected for this position and qualified based on education (i.e. basic education requirement and/or substitution of education), you will be required to provide an OFFICIAL transcript prior to your first day on duty.

Employment Type: OTHER