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Anatomic Pathology Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... anatomic pathology. Describes and examines surgical specimens and prepares such specimens for ... Participates in seminars and provides instruction for medical and pathologist assist students ...

... anatomical pathology. Describes and examines surgical specimens, performs autopsy pro-section, obtains appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation and describes findings. May assist in the ...

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Anatomic Pathology Assistant information

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$12

$48

$78

How much do anatomic pathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for anatomic pathology assistant in Michigan is $48.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.93 and $58.65 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Anatomic Pathology Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,305 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Part-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


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Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY: Under the direct supervision of a Board Certified Pathologist/Physician, assists in all aspects of anatomic pathology including description, examination of surgical specimens, preparation of specimens for histology processing, autopsy prosection on appropriate cases, and medical photography.  Assists with autopsies including dissection, prosection, and selection and submission of appropriate specimens.  Performs tasks related to medical photography of both autopsy and surgical specimens and microscopic slides as needed.  Complies with all appropriate safety and infection control standards.  Participates in quality assessment and continuous quality improvement activities. Performs all job duties and responsibilities in a courteous and customer-focused manner according to the Hurley Family Standards of Behavior.                                                                                      

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:  Works under the administrative supervision of the Administrative Director of Clinical Laboratory or designee who reviews results for compliance to established standards and the medical supervision of a Board Certified Pathologist.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: May exercise partial supervision over lower level employees and students assigned to area.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

  1. Under direction of Pathologist, performs prosections and dictates either electronically or via computer gross description of surgical specimens.
  2. Under direction of Pathologist, accurately completes surgical requisition cards.  Obtains necessary and missing information as required.
  3. Assists with sections/specimens using cryostat, stains, and coverslip slides.  Maintains frozen section equipment.
  4. May finalize surgical and autopsy cases within laboratory computer system which have been completed and signed by supervising Pathologist.
  5. Ensures appropriate legal permission has been obtained to perform autopsies.
  6. Prepares abstracts of medical records.  Presents abstracts to Pathologist prior to beginning autopsy.
  7. Assists with autopsy including dissection, prosection, selection, and submission of appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation and special studies.  May accession case into laboratory computer system.
  8. Performs and/or assists pathologist or designate in tasks related to medical photography.
  9. Acts as back-up for fine needle and bone marrow aspirates by utilizing appropriate laboratory techniques and protocols. Examines specimens for adequacy.
  10. Maintains procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.
  11. Participates in continuing education seminars and conferences, both internal and external to Medical Center, to maintain licensure and currency in field.
  12. Serves as resource person for other staff. Plans and assists in orientation, training, and inservice/continuing education of personnel.
  13. Demonstrates effective judgment and ability to understand, react competently, and treat (if appropriate) unique needs of patient age groups served.
  14. Performs other related duties as required. Utilizes new improvements and/or technology that relate to job assignment.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in an approved Pathology Assistant Program -0R- Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Medical Technology, Physician Assistant, or other medically-related field and completion of a Pathology Assistant Program -OR- Bachelor's of Science degree with courses in physiology and anatomy and three years of experience as a Pathology Assistant.
  • Knowledge of pathology and current pathology technologies.
  • Ability to use surgical and prosecting instruments, microscopes, and computer terminals.
  • Ability to analyze and correlate data from various sources.
  • Ability to conform to departmental performance standards.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relations with supervisors, co-workers, other Medical Center employees, physicians, patients, families, and the general public.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

  • Certification (or eligibility) by the American Association of Pathology Assistants as a Pathology Assistant.  Appointees to this classification who do not possess certification by the AAA as a Pathology Assistant are required to obtain certification within one (1) year from date of appointment.  Failure to attain certification as a Pathology Assistant within the required period shall result in termination of employment.
  • Bachelor's degree in an approved Pathology Assistant Program -0R- Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Medical Technology, Physician Assistant, or other medically-related field and completion of a Pathology Assistant Program -OR- Bachelors of Science degree with courses in physiology and anatomy and three years of experience as a Pathology Assistant.
  • Knowledge of pathology and current pathology technologies.
  • Ability to use surgical and prosecting instruments, microscopes, and computer terminals.
  • Ability to analyze and correlate data from various sources.
  • Ability to conform to departmental performance standards.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relations with supervisors, co-workers, other Medical Center employees, physicians, patients, families, and the general public.
  • Certification (or eligibility) by the American Association of Pathology Assistants as a Pathology Assistant. Appointees to this classification who do not possess certification by the AAA as a Pathology Assistant are required to obtain certification within one (1) year from date of appointment. Failure to attain certification as a Pathology Assistant within the required period shall result in termination of employment.
    1. Under direction of Pathologist, performs prosections and dictates either electronically or via computer gross description of surgical specimens.

    2. Under direction of Pathologist, accurately completes surgical requisition cards. Obtains necessary and missing information as required.

    3. Assists with sections/specimens using cryostat, stains, and coverslip slides. Maintains frozen section equipment.

    4. May finalize surgical and autopsy cases within laboratory computer system which have been completed and signed by supervising Pathologist.

    5. Ensures appropriate legal permission has been obtained to perform autopsies.

    6. Prepares abstracts of medical records. Presents abstracts to Pathologist prior to beginning autopsy.

    7. Assists with autopsy including dissection, prosection, selection, and submission of appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation and special studies. May accession case into laboratory computer system.

    8. Performs and/or assists pathologist or designate in tasks related to medical photography.

    9. Acts as back-up for fine needle and bone marrow aspirates by utilizing appropriate laboratory techniques and protocols. Examines specimens for adequacy.

    10. Maintains procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.

    11. Participates in continuing education seminars and conferences, both internal and external to Medical Center, to maintain licensure and currency in field.

    12. Serves as resource person for other staff. Plans and assists in orientation, training, and inservice/continuing education of staff.

    13. Demonstrates effective judgment and ability to understand, react competently, and treat (if appropriate) unique needs of patient age groups served.


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