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Anatomic Pathology Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Perform processing and grossing of surgical specimens for anatomic pathology. * Accession of surgical specimens in the laboratory information system (LIS). * Assist with duties related to surgical ...

The Anatomic Pathology laboratory operates with first-class facilities, excellent gross and intraoperative consultation rooms and a highly skilled and experienced team of pathologist assistants, and ...

Anatomic Pathologist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$121K - $405K/yr

... pathology, cytopathology and autopsy service ... This position will hold a faculty appointment at UCSF at the Assistant, Associate, or Full ...

Showing results 21-40

Anatomic Pathology Assistant information

See California salary details

$14

$54

$88

How much do anatomic pathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for anatomic pathology assistant in California is $54.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.93 and $66.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an anatomic pathology assistant?

Anatomic Pathology Assistants (APAs) are highly trained professionals who work under the supervision of pathologists to assist in the examination and processing of tissue specimens and bodies. They play a crucial role in surgical pathology and autopsy services, performing tasks such as grossing specimens, preparing tissue samples for analysis, and assisting with autopsies. APAs help ensure accurate and efficient diagnoses by preparing high-quality samples and documentation. Their work is essential for the effective functioning of pathology laboratories in hospitals and other healthcare settings.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an anatomic pathology assistant?

To thrive as an Anatomic Pathology Assistant, you need a solid background in biological sciences, knowledge of gross anatomy, and graduation from a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program, often coupled with ASCP certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen processing tools, and digital imaging equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valued soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate specimen handling, reliable diagnostic support, and effective collaboration within pathology teams.

What challenges might an anatomic pathology assistant face in their daily work?

Anatomic Pathology Assistants often face challenges such as managing a high volume of complex specimens, adhering to strict safety protocols, and maintaining accuracy under time constraints. To address these, they work closely with pathologists and lab technicians, utilize standardized procedures, and rely on organizational skills and attention to detail. Regular training and collaboration within the pathology team help ensure quality control and patient safety while minimizing errors.

What is the difference between Anatomic Pathology Assistant vs Histotechnologist?

AspectAnatomic Pathology AssistantHistotechnologist
CredentialsTypically requires a certification or degree in pathology assistingRequires histotechnology certification (HT or HTL)
Work EnvironmentWorks in pathology labs, assisting with specimen preparation and gross examinationWorks in histology labs, preparing tissue slides for microscopic analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in hospitals, pathology labs, and medical centersCommonly employed in histology and research labs

The main difference is that Anatomic Pathology Assistants focus on gross examination and assisting pathologists, while Histotechnologists specialize in preparing tissue slides for microscopic review. Both roles require specialized training and are essential in pathology and histology labs, but they serve different functions within the diagnostic process.

Is it worth becoming an anatomic pathology assistant?

Anatomic Pathology Assistants play a vital role in preparing and grossing tissue specimens for pathologists, often requiring a background in biology or related fields and familiarity with laboratory tools. The position offers stable employment with opportunities for specialization and advancement, and typically requires certification or training in pathology assisting. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those interested in medical laboratory work and pathology procedures.

Is there a demand for anatomic pathology assistants?

Anatomic pathology assistants are in growing demand due to the increasing need for support in histology and diagnostic laboratories. They often work alongside pathologists, requiring knowledge of laboratory procedures and anatomy, and employment opportunities are expected to expand with advances in medical diagnostics and pathology services.

Where do anatomic pathology assistants make the most money?

Anatomic pathology assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare professionals, such as large metropolitan areas or regions with advanced medical facilities. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of cases handled, with some institutions offering higher pay for specialized skills or additional responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Anatomic Pathology jobs in California?

The most popular types of Anatomic Pathology jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Anatomic Pathology Assistant jobs in California?

For Anatomic Pathology Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Anatomic Pathology Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Anatomic Pathology Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Anatomic Pathology Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Anatomic Pathology Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Anatomic Pathology Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,575 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Academic Anatomic Pathologist/Assistant/Associate/Full Professor

UC Davis Health System

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$245K - $420K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


UC Davis Health rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Academic Anatomic Pathologist/Assistant/Associate/Full Professor

Position Overview:

The salary range for this position is $245,130 - $420,907. This position includes membership in the https://aadocs.ucdavis.edu/policies/apm/apm-670.pdf, which provides for eligibility for additional compensation. The salary range listed is for base compensation only and may be adjusted depending on qualifications and experience. The salary range does not include variable compensation and is subject to the individual department compensation plan.

Department of Pathology and Laboratory medicine

Academic Anatomic Pathologist/Assistant/Associate/ Full Professor

University of California, Davis, Health

Sacramento, California

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of California, Davis School of Medicine is recruiting for a dynamic, full-time faculty member in the Professor of Clinical X or Health Sciences Clinical Professor series at the Assistant/Associate/Full Professor rank in Anatomic Pathology. Subspecialty expertise in Breast Pathology is preferred; however, additional subspecialty expertise/experience is also encouraged including, but not limited to, lung pathology, cytopathology, and head and neck pathology. Faculty in the Clinical X series are expected to demonstrate a high level of clinical diagnostics as well as being active in teaching, research and creative work, and University/public service. Faculty in the Health Sciences Clinical Professor series are also expected to demonstrate a high level of clinical diagnostics as well as being active in teaching, scholarly or creative activities, and University/public service.

The successful candidate will report to the department Chair and Director of Anatomic Pathology, providing clinical service as part of appropriate subspecialty teams, participating in intraoperative diagnoses and after-hours/weekend call. Faculty routinely participate in tumor boards and other clinico-pathologic conferences.

Teaching duties may include clinical, didactic, and small group teaching of house staff and medical students, interdisciplinary conferences to house staff and faculty, and curriculum development in subspecialty areas.

The successful candidate will be expected to participate in service activities which may include participating in appropriate professional societies and educational organizations. They may be asked to participate in department and school committees.

Participation in the institution's research/scholarly mission is expected, either as a collaborator or as an intellectual leader of clinically oriented research projects, depending on the academic series chosen for appointment. The candidate will have multiple opportunities for collaboration within UC Davis Health, including the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The candidate is required to work cooperatively and collegially within a diverse environment, and the ability to build and maintain productive professional relationships with medical and technical staff, trainees, and others.

The position will remain open until filled, but no later than June 30, 2027. For the full position description and to apply, visit: https://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07692.

UC Davis conducts more than 11 million clinical tests annually in state-of-the-art clinical laboratories. Annual anatomic pathology volumes equate to: 24,000+ surgical pathology, 9,108+ gynecologic cytology, 3,777+ non-gyn cytology and 2,642 fine needle aspiration biopsies. The laboratory includes a total laboratory automation system for clinical chemistry and hematology, one of the newest and most comprehensive throughout inland northern California. Clinical services are organized into subspecialty teams to provide focused expertise for clinical teams and to enhance collaborative relationships with our clinical colleagues.

The program has many award-winning faculty educators and hosts 16 residents, most in combined Anatomic and Clinical Pathology training. Fellowships include Cytology, Hematopathology, Informatics, Transfusion Medicine and three subspecialty surgical pathology fellowships (Gynecologic/Breast, Gastrointestinal/Liver and Genitourinary/Medical Renal).

The UC Davis Department of Pathology is ranked among the top 40 academic pathology departments for NIH funding departments nationally, and our faculty are integrated as leaders and/or collaborators in every research theme within the UC Davis Health System, with special strengths in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, novel tissue imaging and informatics/artificial intelligence. The department founded the new Center for Diagnostic Innovation (CDxI) which provides resources and expertise to support clinical trials and new test development and serves as an epicenter for scientific discovery.

To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/9774419


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