Autopsy assistant

What does an autopsy assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

An autopsy assistant works closely with forensic doctors and pathologists and is an important part of the medical team during autopsies. Tasks include preparing and assisting with autopsies, handling and transporting the deceased, and ensuring that instruments and facilities are sterile and in order. The role also involves documentation, simple administrative tasks, and following strict routines regarding hygiene and safety. The work environment is often hospital-based, primarily in morgues or forensic departments, requiring both physical and mental resilience, as well as respectful treatment of the deceased and their relatives.

Salary development over time

The salary for an autopsy assistant has shown a clear increase over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,100 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 29 400 SEK and reaching 30 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an overall increase of about 11% over three years. The positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for healthcare personnel with specialized skills, as well as employers valuing experience and stability in the role. Salary development is also influenced by the employer sector and education level, with higher education and employment in municipal sectors tending to yield higher salaries. Despite the general salary increase, variations exist depending on gender, education, and geographic location.

Autopsy assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,500 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 41,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK/hour
• Women: 30 400 SEK/month (102% of men's salary)
• Men: 29 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Vary, but higher salaries are often seen in metropolitan areas and within municipal sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as an autopsy assistant, a high school education in healthcare and social care is usually required, supplemented with practical experience at a morgue or similar environment. Some employers may require specific courses in anatomy, sterilization techniques, or occupational safety. Internships or supervised introductory positions are often an important part of onboarding, as the job demands high accuracy, hygiene, and respectful treatment.

• High school education: Healthcare and social care program (3 years)
• Internship: Introductory training at a morgue or forensic department
• Courses: Anatomy, hygiene, and sterilization techniques are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Often B driving license and good physical condition
• Certifications: Not formally required, but occupational safety training may be provided

Common benefits and compensations

Autopsy assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and access to work clothing. The work may also involve overtime compensation for irregular hours and sometimes opportunities for professional development, supervision, and support programs to handle the particular stresses of the work environment.

Challenges and competition

The job market for autopsy assistants is relatively limited, as there are few workplaces and roles are rarely advertised broadly. Despite recent data showing 375 available jobs in the broader healthcare and social care sector, positions specifically aimed at autopsy assistants are fewer. Challenges in the profession often include psychological stress, as the work involves daily contact with the deceased and sometimes difficult circumstances. Physical strain and the importance of meticulous hygiene routines are other aspects that can make the job demanding. However, there are opportunities for specialization and development for those engaged and meticulous.

Tips for aspiring autopsy assistants

To succeed as an autopsy assistant, it's beneficial to have strong psychological resilience and the ability to handle difficult situations with calmness and empathy. Being precise and following routines is essential, as the work demands high standards of hygiene and safety. Physical endurance and good basic fitness facilitate heavy lifting and long shifts. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues is also important, as is integrity and respectful interaction with relatives. Showing initiative and an interest in medical development can provide additional opportunities for skill enhancement and career progression within the profession.

Key facts about autopsy assistants

• Salary range: 26,500–41,700 SEK/month
• Average salary: 30 200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school education, often with practical training
• Typical employment: Full-time, often daytime but overtime pay may apply
• Number of available jobs (profession): 375

Career paths and future prospects

After some years of experience, an autopsy assistant can develop into more specialized roles, such as morgue supervisor or trainer for new colleagues. Further education can open opportunities within forensic medicine or more administrative positions. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that, due to limited data, there is no specific future outlook for autopsy assistants, but competition for roles is low within the broader healthcare and social care sector. Job opportunities are influenced by regional needs and retirements, and those with experience or additional training in anatomy and sterilization techniques often have better prospects.

Frequently asked questions about autopsy assistants

• What does an autopsy assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 30 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employer.
• How does one become an autopsy assistant?
  - The most common route is a high school education in healthcare and social care, combined with practical experience at a morgue or forensic department.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 30 400 SEK and men 29 800 SEK, which means women have approximately 102% of men's salaries.
• What are the duties of an autopsy assistant?
  - Mainly assisting with autopsies, maintaining hygiene routines, documenting, and transporting the deceased.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are 375 available jobs within the profession, but positions aimed specifically at autopsy assistants are fewer, and competition is low.
• What education is required?
  - High school education in healthcare and social care, sometimes supplemented with courses in anatomy and practical training.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Emotional stability, accuracy, respect, and teamwork skills are central qualities in the profession.