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Assistant Lab Pathologist Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Lifepoint Health

Pathologist

Johnstown, PA · On-site

Join a collegial team of 3 Pathologists, 1 Hematopathologist, and 1 Pathologist Assistant * Full-time hospital-employed position with a stable, long-standing group * Primarily lab-based role with no ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Pathology/Histology/Cytology * Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens ... Selected Laboratory Assistants required to travel for their job must have a validdriver's license ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA · On-site

Pathology/Histology/Cytology * Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens ... Selected Laboratory Assistants required to travel for their job must have a valid driver's license ...

HNL Lab Medicine

Laboratory Assistant

Allentown, PA

Pathology/Histology/Cytology * Send out responsibilities for reference lab testing for specimens ... Selected Laboratory Assistants required to travel for their job must have a validdriver's license ...

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Assistant Lab Pathologist information

What is an assistant lab pathologist?

Assistant Lab Pathologists are laboratory professionals who support pathologists in diagnosing diseases by preparing and examining tissue, cell, and body fluid samples. They perform tasks such as specimen collection, slide preparation, staining, and sometimes initial microscopic analysis. Their work is crucial in ensuring accurate and timely diagnoses, which guide patient treatment plans. While they do not make final diagnoses, their technical skills and attention to detail are essential for the smooth functioning of pathology labs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant lab pathologist?

To thrive as an Assistant Lab Pathologist, you need a solid background in biological sciences, laboratory techniques, and a relevant degree, often paired with professional certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), microscopy, and handling specialized diagnostic equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are important soft skills for ensuring accuracy and collaborating with medical teams. These competencies are crucial for supporting accurate diagnoses and maintaining reliable laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant lab pathologist when working with a multidisciplinary medical team?

Assistant Lab Pathologists often collaborate closely with clinicians, laboratory technologists, and senior pathologists. A common challenge is ensuring clear and timely communication of complex diagnostic findings, especially when multiple departments are involved. Managing a high volume of specimens while maintaining accuracy and adhering to strict quality and safety protocols can also be demanding. However, these challenges present valuable opportunities to develop strong teamwork skills and gain exposure to a wide variety of cases, which can accelerate professional growth in the field.

What is the difference between Assistant Lab Pathologist vs Medical Laboratory Scientist?

AspectAssistant Lab PathologistMedical Laboratory Scientist
CredentialsMedical degree, pathology training, licensingBachelor's or master's in medical laboratory science, certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research institutionsHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job RoleAssists in pathology diagnosis, reviews lab results, supports pathologistsPerforms laboratory tests, analyzes samples, reports findings

Assistant Lab Pathologists and Medical Laboratory Scientists work closely in diagnostic labs, but the assistant role supports pathologists with review and assistance, while Medical Laboratory Scientists perform the core testing and analysis. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar healthcare environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

How to become an assistant lab pathologist?

To become an assistant lab pathologist, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology or medical technology, followed by completing a histotechnician or histotechnologist program. Certification from organizations like the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) can enhance job prospects, and experience working in a clinical laboratory setting is often required. A strong understanding of laboratory procedures, attention to detail, and familiarity with laboratory equipment are essential for this role.

Is it hard to become an assistant lab pathologist?

Becoming an assistant lab pathologist typically requires a relevant bachelor's degree, laboratory experience, and often certification or training in pathology techniques. The role involves specialized knowledge of laboratory procedures and often requires attention to detail and familiarity with medical tools. The difficulty depends on educational background and experience, but it generally involves completing relevant education and gaining practical skills.

What do assistant lab pathologists do?

Assistant lab pathologists support senior pathologists by preparing and analyzing tissue and blood samples, assisting in diagnosing diseases. They often handle laboratory tests, operate microscopes and lab equipment, and maintain accurate records to ensure quality and accuracy in pathology work.

Where do assistant lab pathologists make the most money?

Assistant lab pathologists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong healthcare industries, such as major metropolitan areas or regions with advanced medical facilities. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the employing institution, with larger hospitals and research institutions often offering higher compensation.

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Assistant Lab Pathologist jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Assistant Lab Pathologist job openings:

Assistant Lab Pathologist jobs near you

Sr. Pathologists' Assistant

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

UPMC Senior Communities
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about UPMC Senior Communitiesexternal

$44.77 - $77.45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Pathologists' Assistant / Senior Pathologists' Assistant
Location: Pittsburgh, PA in the UPMC urban pathology labs (Presbyterian, Shadyside, and Magee-Womens Hospitals)
Schedule: Daylight hours with flexible start times between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM, offering a combination of 8- and 10-hour shifts after initial training completion. Rotating holiday coverage.
Join the supportive and collaborative team at UPMC Presbyterian's Urban Pathology Labs, serving Presbyterian, Shadyside, and Magee facilities in Pittsburgh. Whether you're a new graduate or an experienced Pathologists' Assistant, you'll thrive in an environment that fosters growth and learning. Work alongside world-renowned pathologists and gain exposure to a fascinating case mix, including rare and complex specimens.
One of the greatest benefits of working in a dynamic urban lab environment is the ability to network and collaborate with peers across the entire UPMC system. UPMC supports a robust Pathologists' Assistant network through the UPMC Lab Service Center, fostering teamwork and shared initiatives. By joining us, you will be at the forefront of operational excellence and have ample opportunity to advance your career both within and beyond the organization.
Applicants will be placed into the appropriate job title and salary based on their individual experience and education.
UPMC is currently offering a generous sign-on bonus for Pathologists' Assistants!
Responsibilities:
  • Assist manager or Supervisor with administrative functions as they relate to the Pathologists' Assistant portion of the department including assisting with development of quality assurance monitors, quality control monitors, data gathering and preparations of QA report, input for performance reviews, budget preparation and monitoring, regulatory compliance and continuing education and training.
  • Oversee the proper handling, storage and disposition of all surgical and autopsy tissue while adhering to the regulatory and compliance standards regarding biohazard and safety.
  • Ensure that tests are prepared properly at all stages from specimen collection through results reporting, and performs additional special handling of the specimens if necessary or requested (i.e. radiography, photography, special fixation, cultures and tissue procurement).
  • Competent at operating the Laboratory Information System and Medical Archival Retrieval System relative to the functions of the pathology assistants' team.
  • Perform special projects such as research protocols when required.
  • Provide independent technical leadership, consulting with the Manager or Supervisor on unusual and complex cases, such as oncology cases where the tumor has spread into other organs, cancers that extend into surrounding structures, autopsies on complicated cases, and initial intraoperative examination and tissue banking for uncommon specimens of interest to research such as wide section melanomas and thoracic biopsies. Provides ongoing training and orientation to the pathology assistant team members.
  • Examine and prepare surgical pathology cases for microscopic evaluation by providing gross description, dissection and sections of each case as defined by the Surgical Pathology Manual while maintaining accurate records of all activities.
  • Participate in and performs frozen sections, intraoperative consultations, autopsies and prenatal procedures. File and retrieve surgical and autopsy materials and maintains accurate records of all such activities.

Qualifications:
Senior Pathologist's Assistant:
  • Graduate of a NAACLS accredited, Master's degree pathologist's assistant training program, or Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or Medical Technology or a related field and 5 years clinical experience in Anatomic or Clinical Pathology is required.
  • One year working as a certified Pathologist's Assistant preferred.

Pathologist's Assistant:
  • Completion of 4-year degree in Biological Sciences or Medical Technology or meets AAPA requirements for college credits defined in the science disciplines from an accredited institution.
  • Prefer graduate of a NAACLS accredited, master's degree pathologist's assistant training program, or bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or Medical Technology or a related field and 5 years clinical experience in Anatomic or Clinical Pathology is required.
  • Analytical and technical ability necessary to independently evaluate patient specimens and clinical data to appropriate sample tissue relevant to diagnostic evaluation and recognize organ and tissue anomalies.
  • All procedures or job-related tasks involve an inherent potential for mucous membrane or skin contact with blood, body fluids or tissues.
  • A potential for spills or splashes of biohazard substances does exist. Exposure to normal laboratory lights and noises and occasional exposure to toxic and carcinogenic chemicals.

This position requires regular movement throughout the facility, including walking, standing, and lifting materials or equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. This position requires the ability to accurately distinguish colors.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
  • ASCP required within 12 months of hire.
  • Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

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