Coroners
Coroners investigate deaths that are sudden, violent, unexplained, or suspicious within their legal jurisdiction. They perform or oversee autopsies, analyze toxicology and pathology findings, and conduct inquests to determine cause of death and assign responsibility. Coroners work in medical examiner's offices, morgues, and courthouses.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against coroners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A coroner's week involves examining deceased individuals, reviewing medical and police records, and consulting with pathologists and toxicologists about test results. They may attend crime scenes, testify in court about findings, and complete death certificates and investigative reports. Some days focus primarily on autopsy procedures; others involve administrative duties, evidence documentation, and coordinating with law enforcement and legal officials.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICE. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited to this work if you're detail-oriented and methodical—comfortable following established procedures and examining evidence carefully. You tend to enjoy investigative work and solving problems logically, and you're able to remain objective and composed when handling sensitive situations and working with grieving families.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $84,590 | $111,030 | $132,960 | 4,380 |
| Massachusetts | $78,390 | $102,060 | $130,230 | 13,190 |
| New Jersey | $76,180 | $100,000 | $128,790 | 13,310 |
| California | $71,240 | $96,980 | $127,380 | 49,880 |
| Connecticut | $71,810 | $91,810 | $109,990 | 3,610 |
| Delaware | $65,520 | $91,050 | $105,800 | 2,150 |
| Vermont | $68,220 | $90,420 | $108,510 | 1,960 |
| New York | $66,670 | $90,080 | $119,430 | 23,500 |
| Washington | $74,770 | $88,790 | $116,210 | 11,130 |
| Rhode Island | $74,550 | $87,620 | $110,090 | 970 |
| Minnesota | $68,200 | $85,920 | $109,010 | 6,140 |
| Pennsylvania | $63,280 | $85,580 | $130,990 | 19,810 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Information Privacy Professional - Europe (CIPP/E) — International Association of Privacy Professionals
- Associate in Regulation and Compliance (ARC) — The Institutes
- Certified Healthcare Business Management Executive Certification (CHBME) — Healthcare Billing & Management Association
- Certified Erosion, Sediment and Storm Water Inspector (CESSWI) — EnviroCert International, Inc.
- Regulatory Affairs Certification (RAC) — Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society
- Associate, Insurance Regulatory Compliance (AIRC) — LOMA
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against coroners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1041.06 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.