For Educators: Military Resources
Military Pathologists
Median Salary
79,836
Workforce Count
1,006
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
Military pathologists primarily work in military laboratories. These specialists conduct tests on tissue, cells, and bodily fluids to diagnose disease. They direct other medical officers and technicians in performing anatomical pathological examinations involving preparation of tissue for microscopic analysis, such as biopsies and necropsies. They conduct laboratory tests and examinations to determine etiology, nature, and development of diseases and disease processes.
What is the work environment like?
Pathologists work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships.
How many people have this role in the Military?
1,006
Compensation
Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$123,447
2 Years
$70,555
6 Years
$123,447
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
What Service Branches offer this role?
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Officers are service members who plan, direct operations and manage enlisted personnel, developing a broad range of leadership-related skills.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
Job training for pathologists primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Scholarships for advanced medical training are available in return for an obligated period of military service. Qualifying students benefit through unique training experiences and get to attend certain military short courses designed to develop tactical, technical and operational skills unique to the military environment. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training may include:
- Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety/TeamSTEPPS® Essentials and Fundamentals
- Mishap Investigation and Prevention
- Operational Aeromedical Problems
- Senior Leadership
- Joint Operations Medical Management
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Biology
- Medicine and Dentistry
- English Language
- Education and Training
- Customer and Personal Service
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Investigative
You love figuring out how things work and researching subjects that interest you.
Realistic
You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test