Autopsy Technician

SNA International; Dover (DE); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

SNA International in Dover, DE is seeking a detail-oriented Autopsy Technician. This role involves preparing the autopsy suite, assisting forensic pathologists, and maintaining accurate documentation of specimens. Candidates should have a minimum of a High School diploma, a certification as a Histotechnician, and at least two years of experience in a relevant setting. The position requires meticulous attention to detail, the ability to work in demanding environments, and a willingness to travel. SNA International is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a hospital pathology or medical examiner setting.
• Meticulous attention to detail for specimen handling and documentation.
• Ability to lift/move heavy objects and work in demanding conditions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare autopsy suite and instruments for examinations.
• Accurately document incoming human remains.
• Assist the forensic pathologist in postmortem examinations.
• Produce high-quality photographic documentation for forensic evidence.
• Maintain the autopsy suite and histology specimen inventory.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Proficiency in autopsy procedures

Knowledge of human anatomy

Documentation skills

Ability to work in demanding conditions

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science or related field

Certification as a Histotechnician (HT)

Job description

SNA International, a world leader in forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence, is currently looking for a detail-oriented and collaborative Autopsy Technician with a strong work ethic to join the AFMES team in Dover, DE. SNA International’s team works together in pursuit of the same cause: to build a safe and just world by empowering organizations in the use of forensics, biometrics, and identity intelligence.

Critical Work Responsibilities Include:

• Ensure that the autopsy suite, instruments, and equipment must be cleaned, sterilized, and fully prepared prior to each examination,
• Ensure all necessary supplies for each autopsy case are stocked and available.
• Accurately document all incoming human remains
• Maintain a strict, unbroken chain of custody for all remains, personal effects, and forensic specimens.
• Assist the forensic pathologist with all aspects of the postmortem examination with professional proficiency.
• Preserve and label all biological specimens with complete accuracy.
• Respectfully prepare remains for release to mortuary/funeral home after the completion of the autopsy.
• Decontaminate the autopsy suite and equipment per safety protocols within 4 hours of case completion.
• Maintain the autopsy suite, refrigerated units, and storage areas in a clean and organized state.
• Monitor inventory levels and report supply needs to prevent work stoppages
• Performs tissue embedding, operates tissue processor, microtome sectioning, slide staining, cover slipping, and quality control checks.
• Receive specimens from cases performed outside of the main facility and accessioning.
• Maintain a histology specimen inventory and appropriate chain of custody for all materials.
• Assists with tracking specimens retained for extended examination and coordinating shipping/examination times with consultants.
• Disposition specimens and histology materials per standard operating procedure, following regulations for biohazardous waste.
• Produce accurate, high-quality photographic documentation of decedents, personal effects, personal protective equipment, and associated evidence to support forensic examinations, identification of remains and medicolegal investigations.
• Ensure all photographs associated with a case are accurately uploaded, correctly oriented, and placed in the case tracking system within 24 hours of autopsy completion.
• Must be able to provide coverage for weekend operations as required.
• Must be willing to globally deploy to OCONUS/CONUS locations (typically 2-5 days, but in rare cases may extend to several weeks).
• Must be available for travel 30-40% of the time, sometimes at short notice.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science, Mortuary Science, Biology, or a related field is highly desirable.
• A minimum of two (2) years of hands‑on experience in a hospital pathology or medical examiner setting, assisting with autopsies.
• Certification as a Histotechnician (HT) from ASCP or a similar certification.
• Demonstrated knowledge of human anatomy and medical terminology.
• Proficiency in autopsy procedures, including evisceration.
• Ability to work in physically and emotionally demanding conditions and lift/move heavy objects.
• Meticulous attention to detail, particularly for specimen handling and documentation.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid U.S. passport and meet all medical/administrative requirements for global deployment.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

TO APPLY

Please submit a cover letter along with your CV. CVs without a cover letter will not be considered.

SNA International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.