PA - Forensic Pathologists' Assistant - Days

Position Summary: A Forensic Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) works directly under the supervision of a board-certified forensic pathologist. The PA performs a variety of professional, technical, and administrative duties related to forensic postmortem examinations and death investigations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Postmortem Examination and Casework The Forensic PA assists with all aspects of postmortem examinations and case preparation. Responsibilities include: Preparing for and assisting with postmortem examinations. Performing evisceration and organ dissection under the supervision of a forensic pathologist. Procuring and preparing tissue samples for histological examination. Coordinating toxicology testing and other ancillary studies. Coordinating histology processing with FMA’s outside histology laboratory. Coordinating immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and other specialized testing as directed by the forensic pathologist. Reviewing investigative reports, available medical records, and other case-related documentation. Collecting, documenting, and preserving evidence and specimens in accordance with established policies and procedures. Assisting the forensic pathologist in developing preliminary findings related to cause and manner of death. Ensuring appropriate documentation and organization of case materials throughout the examination process. Case Documentation and Administrative Responsibilities The Forensic PA is responsible for supporting the timely and accurate completion of forensic casework and related administrative functions, including: Preparing and drafting autopsy reports for review and finalization by the forensic pathologist. Coordinating with applicable Trauma Review Boards, Child Fatality Review Committees, and other fatality or case-review committees. Assisting with the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) accreditation process, including annual accreditation requirements and documentation. Assisting with quality assurance, case tracking, and other administrative responsibilities related to forensic pathology operations. Performing other administrative and professional duties appropriate to the PA position and as assigned.

Education and Training: Forensic PAs play an active role in FMA’s educational mission and may assist with the training and education of: Forensic pathology fellows Medical students Interns Other students participating in educational rotations. Pathology laboratory personnel and other professional trainees, as appropriate. Special attention is given to the education and onboarding of Pathologists’ Assistant students. PAs are expected to participate in student orientation, provide appropriate instruction and supervision, and assist students in developing practical skills and familiarity with forensic pathology operations Communication and Collaboration: The Forensic PA works collaboratively with forensic pathologists, investigative staff, autopsy and laboratory personnel, and administrative staff. The position may also require professional communication and coordination with outside agencies and organizations, including: Coroners and medical examiner offices Hospitals and healthcare providers Law enforcement agencies Toxicology and histology laboratories Trauma and fatality review committees Other governmental, healthcare, academic, and forensic partners The PA is expected to maintain professional communication, confidentiality, and appropriate documentation when interacting with internal staff and outside agencies.

Certification Requirements: FMA requires Forensic Pathologists’ Assistants to hold certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Applicants who are not ASCP-certified at the time of hire may be considered for employment, provided they are eligible for certification and successfully pass the ASCP Board of Certification examination within 12 months of their date of employment. Supervision and Scope of Practice: All duties are performed within the PA’s professional scope of practice and under the supervision and direction of a board-certified forensic pathologist. The supervising forensic pathologist retains responsibility for final diagnostic interpretation, microscopic interpretation, determination and certification of cause and manner of death, and other functions requiring the professional judgment or authority of a licensed physician. FMA may modify or assign additional duties consistent with the employee’s qualifications, training, professional scope, and operational needs.

Health Insurance: Kaiser health insurance with a $0 deductible plan. The Foundation pays 60% of the employee’s individual monthly premium or 40% of the applicable family premium. Paid Time Off (PTO): 22 days of paid time off annually.

Paid Holidays: 12 paid federal holidays annually.

Relocation Reimbursement: Reimbursement of eligible relocation expenses up to $5,000 for moving and travel related expenses. Retirement Plan: Participation in FMA’s retirement plan, including a 1%–4% company match, based on the employee’s contribution and in accordance with the applicable retirement plan match schedule. Paid Parental Leave/FMLA: Eligible employees may receive six weeks of paid parental leave. Employees may also be eligible for up to an additional six weeks of unpaid leave in accordance with the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and applicable Foundation policies. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligibility: FMA’s Foundation is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is an eligible employer under the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. Participation and enrollment in PSLF are the employee’s responsibility. The Foundation would be your employer and we will provide appropriate verification and certification of qualifying employment as required. Scientific Meetings and Conferences: FMA will cover eligible expenses for one scientific meeting or conference annually when the employee is presenting. Professional Membership: One paid professional membership annually.

Flexible Work Environment: A flexible work environment, including opportunities for limited work-from-home time when job responsibilities and operational needs permit. Fitness Center Access: Access to the DeKalb County Government Employee Fitness Center. Forensic Medicine Associates, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex—including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity—national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process may contact office@forensicmedicine.co