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Medical Pathologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Medical Pathologist information

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$44.9K

$245.7K

$381.9K

How much do medical pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for medical pathologist in California is $245,740.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $200,800.00 and $297,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get as a pathologist?

A medical pathologist can work in hospitals, laboratories, or research institutions, performing diagnostic tests on tissue, blood, and other samples to identify diseases. They often specialize in areas such as forensic, surgical, or clinical pathology and require certification and knowledge of laboratory techniques and medical diagnostics.

Is a pathologist an MD or PhD?

A medical pathologist is typically an MD who has completed medical school and residency training in pathology. Some research-focused pathologists may hold a PhD, but clinical practice generally requires an MD license and board certification in pathology.

What type of pathologist gets paid the most?

Among medical pathologists, those specializing in molecular genetic pathology and cytopathology tend to have higher salaries due to their specialized skills and demand. Subspecialties like forensic pathology and hematopathology also often command higher pay, especially with board certification and extensive experience. Salary can vary based on location, experience, and the healthcare setting.

What does a medical pathologist do?

A medical pathologist examines tissue, blood, and other samples to diagnose diseases, often working in laboratories using microscopes and lab equipment. They interpret lab results, assist in patient diagnosis, and collaborate with healthcare providers to determine appropriate treatment plans.

What is the difference between Medical Pathologist vs Clinical Laboratory Scientist?

AspectMedical PathologistClinical Laboratory Scientist
CredentialsMedical degree (MD or DO), pathology residency, board certificationBachelor's degree in medical technology or related field, certification (e.g., ASCP)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, academic institutionsClinical laboratories, hospitals, research facilities
Role & ResponsibilitiesDiagnose diseases by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids; interpret lab resultsPerform laboratory tests, prepare specimens, operate lab equipment

Medical Pathologists and Clinical Laboratory Scientists both work in diagnostic labs, but Medical Pathologists have medical degrees and focus on diagnosing diseases through tissue and fluid analysis. Clinical Laboratory Scientists perform routine tests and support diagnosis but do not interpret complex cases. Their roles complement each other within healthcare settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Medical Pathologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Pathologist, you need an advanced medical degree (MD or DO), board certification in pathology, and a deep understanding of disease mechanisms and laboratory medicine. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), microscopy, and diagnostic imaging tools is essential, along with potential subspecialty certifications. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for accurately diagnosing diseases, guiding treatment decisions, and ensuring high-quality patient care within multidisciplinary teams.

What are medical pathologists?

Medical pathologists are specialized physicians who diagnose diseases by examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids in a laboratory setting. They play a crucial role in patient care by analyzing biopsies, blood samples, and other specimens to help determine the cause and progression of illnesses. Pathologists often work closely with other doctors to provide accurate diagnoses that guide treatment decisions. Their expertise is essential in areas such as cancer detection, infection identification, and monitoring chronic diseases.

What are some common challenges medical pathologists face when working within multidisciplinary healthcare teams?

Medical pathologists often collaborate with clinicians, surgeons, and laboratory staff to provide accurate diagnoses. A common challenge is ensuring effective communication, as pathologists usually work behind the scenes and must clearly convey complex findings to non-specialists. Additionally, balancing a high volume of cases while maintaining meticulous attention to detail can be demanding. Staying updated on rapidly evolving diagnostic technologies and integrating new methods into practice are also ongoing challenges in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Medical Pathologist jobs in California? For Medical Pathologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Medical Pathologist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Medical Pathologist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Medical Pathologist jobs? Cities in California with the most Medical Pathologist job openings:
Medical Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Pathologist job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $245,740 per year, or $118.1 per hour.

Pathologist AP/CP

Yosemite Pathology Medical Group

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$300K - $360K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Join Yosemite Pathology Medical Group

Yosemite Pathology Medical Group is a private, independent, pathologist-owned and operated surgical pathology and cytology laboratory. We are urgently seeking three board-certified AP/CP Pathologists to support our growing practice, with immediate openings in Bakersfield and additional opportunities in Modesto and Stockton, California.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a respected and thriving group that values collaboration, quality, and work-life balance.

Why Bakersfield?

Bakersfield offers an affordable cost of living compared to much of California, excellent schools, and a welcoming community. It's a family-friendly city with easy access to both the Sierra Nevada mountains and the California coast - plus Los Angeles is just under two hours away. This role allows you to enjoy California living while maintaining a rewarding professional career in a supportive group environment.

Current Opening: Bakersfield – Immediate Need

Join a well-established pathology team in Bakersfield, CA, providing pathology services across four local hospitals. You will be based in a professional laboratory setting and collaborate daily with five collegial and experienced pathologists.

We are actively seeking a pathologist with proven experience who can step into a high-volume, multi-hospital practice and make an impact right away.

The ideal candidate will:

  • Bring strong diagnostic skills across a broad spectrum of surgical and clinical pathology.
  • Demonstrate confidence in independent decision-making while thriving in a team-oriented environment.
  • Appreciate the variety and complexity that comes with supporting multiple hospitals.

Your Role

  • Provide expert consultation and communicate the medical significance of laboratory findings to referring physicians.
  • Deliver accurate, timely evaluations and diagnoses across a diverse range of anatomic pathology specimens.
  • Actively engage in a collaborative, team-based approach to patient care.
  • Contribute to the ongoing improvement of pathology services while maintaining a collegial workplace culture.

Qualifications

  • Board certification in Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP) required
  • Active California medical license (or eligibility to obtain one) required
  • Applicants with 2-4 years' experience in a practice setting are a plus.
  • Fellowship training in surgical pathology subspecialties (cytopathology, breast, GI, gynecologic, etc.) highly desirable
  • Strong diagnostic, communication, and collaboration skills essential

Why Yosemite Pathology?

  • Independent, pathologist-owned and operated group
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
  • Strong emphasis on work-life balance
  • Opportunities to grow within a respected, stable, and expanding organization

Apply Today

Given the urgent need for multiple pathologists in Bakersfield, we are reviewing applications immediately. Don't miss the chance to join a supportive, physician-owned group dedicated to excellence in patient care - while enjoying all the professional and lifestyle benefits that California has to offer.

If interested, please submit your curriculum vitae to: Amber McFarlane, Director of Human Resources Email: jobs@ypmg.com