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Trainee Forensic Death Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Soft Tox

Forensic Toxicologist

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Sep 30, 2026 Forensic Toxicology Join our team in a highly specialized scientific role where your ... Your work will provide critical scientific information to pathologists, death investigators, and ...

Harris County

Deputy Chief Medical Examiner

Houston, TX · On-site

$166K/yr

... death investigations and evidence collected from bodies; and teaches trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, and medical students) about various aspects of ...

Yuma County, AZ

Forensic Investigator (Grade 11)

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$24.62 - $30.78/hr

... forensic operations and investigations within the Medical Examiner's section of the Sheriff ... Nature of Work (Illustrative Only) Responds to death scenes; investigates the cause and manner of ...

Yuma County

Forensic Investigator (Grade 11)

Yuma, AZ

$24.62 - $30.78/hr

... forensic operations and investigations within the Medical Examiner's section of the Sheriff ... Nature of Work (Illustrative Only) Responds to death scenes; investigates the cause and manner of ...

Harris County, TX

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX · On-site

$300K/yr

... death investigations and evidence collected from bodies; and teaches trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, medical students, nursing students) about various ...

Harris County

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX

$300K/yr

... death investigations and evidence collected from bodies; and teaches trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, medical students, nursing students) about various ...

Harris County

Assistant Medical Examiner

Houston, TX

$300K/yr

... death investigations and evidence collected from bodies; and teaches trainees (forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, medical residents, medical students, nursing students) about various ...

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Trainee Forensic Death Investigator information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do trainee forensic death investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee forensic death investigator in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee forensic death investigator do?

A Trainee Forensic Death Investigator assists in examining deaths that occur under unusual or suspicious circumstances. They help collect and document evidence at death scenes, work closely with law enforcement and medical examiners, and may participate in autopsies. Their responsibilities also include gathering information from witnesses and families, preparing detailed reports, and learning how to determine causes and manners of death. The role is highly detail-oriented and involves significant on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced investigators.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a trainee forensic death investigator?

To thrive as a Trainee Forensic Death Investigator, you generally need a background in forensic science, biology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with evidence collection tools, digital recordkeeping systems, and laboratory analysis techniques is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate investigation, proper handling of evidence, and effective collaboration with law enforcement and legal professionals.

What types of cases and situations does a trainee forensic death investigator encounter during training?

As a Trainee Forensic Death Investigator, you will typically encounter a wide range of cases, including natural deaths, accidental deaths, suicides, and homicides. During your training, you will often work alongside experienced investigators, helping to process death scenes, collect evidence, and interact with law enforcement and medical personnel. The role requires you to develop strong observational skills and resilience, as some cases can be emotionally challenging. You'll also gain experience in documentation, interviewing witnesses, and learning the protocols for reporting findings, all while being mentored by senior staff.

What is the difference between Trainee Forensic Death Investigator vs Forensic Death Investigator?

AspectTrainee Forensic Death InvestigatorForensic Death Investigator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; ongoing trainingForensic science degree or related certification; specialized training
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, in labs or crime scenesIndependent investigations, crime scene analysis
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, law enforcement agenciesForensic labs, law enforcement agencies

The Trainee Forensic Death Investigator is an entry-level role focused on gaining experience and training, often under supervision. In contrast, a Forensic Death Investigator is a fully qualified professional responsible for conducting investigations independently. The trainee position emphasizes learning, while the investigator role involves applying specialized skills to determine cause of death and support legal processes.

How to become a trainee forensic death investigator?

To become a trainee forensic death investigator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant training or education in forensic science, criminal justice, or a related field. Some positions require completion of specialized training programs or certifications, and strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work in a forensic environment are important.
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Trainee Forensic Death Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Forensic Death Investigator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Forensic Toxicologist

Soft Tox

Pontiac, MI • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $85,818.00 - $114,981.00 Annually

Application Deadline: Sep 30, 2026

Forensic Toxicology

Join our team in a highly specialized scientific role where your expertise directly supports death investigations and the pursuit of accurate, evidence-based answers. In this position, you’ll perform complex toxicological testing on biological specimens to identify and interpret the presence of drugs, poisons, and alcohol. Your work will provide critical scientific information to pathologists, death investigators, and law enforcement agencies and may play an important role in legal proceedings.

What You’ll Do
  • Perform high-complexity analytical testing on biological specimens to identify, quantify, and interpret drugs, poisons, alcohol, and other substances.
  • Analyze and interpret laboratory findings to provide accurate, scientifically supported results.
  • Provide critical toxicology data used in determining the cause and manner of death.
  • Collaborate with pathologists, death investigators, law enforcement, and other professionals throughout the investigative process.
  • Prepare and communicate scientific findings clearly and accurately.
  • Provide expert testimony regarding laboratory procedures, testing, and findings in legal proceedings.
  • Utilize current County and department-specific software to document results and complete assignments.
Why You’ll Love It
  • Meaningful Work: Your scientific expertise directly contributes to death investigations and helps provide answers to families, investigators, and the community.
  • Specialized Expertise: Apply advanced analytical and toxicological skills to complex, real-world cases.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work alongside pathologists, investigators, law enforcement professionals, and other scientific experts.
  • Professional Impact: Serve as a trusted scientific resource and have the opportunity to provide expert testimony in legal proceedings.
  • Public Service: Build your career while contributing to work that supports public safety and the integrity of the investigative process.
Experience, Training, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required Minimum Qualifications
  • 1. a. Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, forensic science or closely related field of study.
  • 1. b. Have had two (2) years of full-time analytical experience in forensic toxicology;
  • OR
  • 2. a. Possess a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, forensic science or a closely related field of study.
  • 2. b. Have had at least one (1) year of full-time analytical experience in forensic toxicology, testing toxic agents;
  • OR
  • 3. Possess a Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, biology, forensic science or a closely related field of study.
Special Requirements
  • Submit to annual tuberculin skin test or chest X-ray, at County expense.
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