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Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant Jobs in California

#139650 Histotechnologist - Pathology Lab Under general supervision, the Histotechnologist performs ... OR 2) Five (5) years of experience in a Histology Anatomic Pathology (AP) laboratory with an HT ...

Pathology Lab Assistant III

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$38.13 - $53.37/hr

Knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. * Possess written and verbal communications skills to explain sensitive information clearly and professionally to diverse ...

Lab Assistant III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Lab Assistant III COMPANY DESCRIPTION Unio Health Partners (UHP) is a highly differentiated ... Significant laboratory experience, preferably in anatomical pathology or specialized laboratory ...

Knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. * Possess written and verbal communications skills to explain sensitive information clearly and professionally to diverse ...

Lab Assistant III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Lab Assistant III COMPANY DESCRIPTION Unio Health Partners (UHP) is a highly differentiated ... Significant laboratory experience, preferably in anatomical pathology or specialized laboratory ...

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Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$55

$93

How much do anatomic pathology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for anatomic pathology lab assistant in California is $55.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.66 and $69.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by anatomic pathology lab assistants, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where attention to detail and time management are critical. Common challenges include handling a high volume of specimens accurately, maintaining strict labeling protocols, and adhering to safety and confidentiality standards. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with laboratory information systems, reviewing safety procedures, and developing strong organizational skills. Collaborating closely with pathologists, technologists, and administrative staff is also essential for smooth daily operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an anatomic pathology lab assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant, you need a background in biology or laboratory science, attention to detail, and knowledge of specimen handling, often backed by an associate's degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen tracking software, and basic histology equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively stand out as essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate specimen processing, support diagnostic accuracy, and maintain safety and efficiency in a laboratory environment.

What is the difference between Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant vs Histology Technician?

AspectAnatomic Pathology Lab AssistantHistology Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree or certification in histotechnology
Work EnvironmentPathology labs, hospitals, medical facilitiesHistology labs, hospitals, research institutions
Job RoleAssists with specimen preparation, lab support tasksPrepares tissue samples, processes slides, maintains equipment
Common UsageUsed in hospitals and pathology labs for support rolesSpecialized in tissue processing and slide preparation

The Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant and Histology Technician roles both support pathology labs, but the Histology Technician has more specialized training in tissue processing and slide preparation. The Lab Assistant typically performs supportive tasks under supervision, while the Histology Technician handles more technical procedures. Both roles are essential in the diagnostic process within medical laboratories.

What does an anatomic pathology lab assistant do?

An Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant supports pathologists and laboratory staff by preparing and processing tissue specimens for examination and diagnosis. Their duties include labeling and accessioning samples, assisting with specimen grossing, maintaining lab equipment, and ensuring that all specimens are handled according to safety and quality protocols. They play a vital role in the workflow of the pathology laboratory, helping to ensure accurate and timely diagnostic results. Strong attention to detail, good organizational skills, and adherence to confidentiality standards are essential for this role.
What are popular job titles related to Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in California? For Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Anatomic Pathology Lab Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,763 per year, or $55.7 per hour.

Clinical Lab Assistant - Pathology

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$21.64 - $26.50/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The full-time Clinical Lab Assistant will support technical laboratory personnel in day-to-day operations of the Cytopathology Laboratory in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.
The incumbent will:

  • Prepare simple and complex reagents or media under direct supervision.
  • Receive, accession and triage patient specimens, blocks and slides.
  • Process GYN ThinPrep PAP specimens.
  • Accession non-GYN cases and process non-GYN specimens.
  • Monitor incoming phone inquiries and requests.
  • Identify and separate specimens to be referred to outside laboratories or analyzed by other USC laboratories.
  • Handle and dispose of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
  • Maintain and organize laboratory supplies. Monitor inventory levels.
The Keck School of Medicine Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is one of the largest pathology departments in the United States. The Department aims to shape the future of pathology as it will be practiced in community hospitals, academic medical centers and clinical laboratories throughout the country. The Department is growing very rapidly and there is great opportunity for advancement in the Anatomic Pathology Laboratories.
The University offers a competitive salary package.
Shift: Monday - Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Hourly range
The hourly rate range for this position is $21.64 - $26.50. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.
Minimum Education: Related Undergraduate Study
Combined experience/education as a substitute for minimum education
USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.
We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.
  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:
https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151352.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880