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Oral Pathologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Contra Costa Health

ORAL SURGEON

Martinez, CA

$255K - $290K/yr

Treatment of oral pathology * Reconstructive surgery * Maxillofacial Trauma Requirements: * Possession of the legal requirements for the practice of dentistry in the State of California as determined ...

Contra Costa Health

ORAL SURGEON

Martinez, CA · On-site

$255K - $290K/yr

Treatment of oral pathology * Reconstructive surgery * Maxillofacial Trauma Requirements: * Possession of the legal requirements for the practice of dentistry in the State of California as determined ...

Specialty1 Partners

Oral Surgeon Opening

Los Angeles, CA

$326K - $431K/yr

Oral pathology evaluation and biopsy * Corrective jaw surgery * Facial trauma and fracture treatment * Diagnosis and treatment of facial pain and TMJ concerns * Sedation and anesthesia services The ...

Specialty1 Partners

Oral Surgeon Opening

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$326K - $431K/yr

Oral pathology evaluation and biopsy * Corrective jaw surgery * Facial trauma and fracture treatment * Diagnosis and treatment of facial pain and TMJ concerns * Sedation and anesthesia services The ...

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Oral Pathologist information

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$238.3K

$333.1K

$390.3K

How much do oral pathologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for oral pathologist in California is $333,080.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $281,300.00 and $373,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an oral pathologist?

An Oral Pathologist is a specialized dentist who diagnoses and studies diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, and related structures. They examine tissue samples, biopsies, and laboratory tests to identify conditions such as oral cancer, infections, and autoimmune disorders. Oral Pathologists often work in hospitals, laboratories, or academic institutions, collaborating with dentists and medical professionals. Their expertise helps guide treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an oral pathologist?

As an Oral Pathologist, your daily responsibilities often include examining biopsy samples under a microscope, diagnosing diseases of the mouth, jaws, and related structures, and collaborating with dentists and physicians regarding patient cases. You may also spend time meeting with patients to discuss findings, writing detailed pathology reports, and occasionally participating in research or teaching. Many Oral Pathologists work in hospitals, dental schools, or private laboratories, and you will likely be part of a multidisciplinary team. This role requires balancing laboratory work and communication with healthcare professionals to ensure the best patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the oral pathologist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oral Pathologist, you need expertise in dental and medical sciences, diagnostic skills, and a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree with specialized residency training in oral and maxillofacial pathology. Familiarity with laboratory diagnostic tools, microscopic analysis, and board certification in oral pathology are commonly required. Keen attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate diagnosis of oral diseases, clear conveyance of results, and collaboration with other dental and healthcare professionals.

How do you become an oral pathologist?

To become an oral pathologist, one must complete a bachelor's degree, typically in a science-related field, followed by a dental degree (DDS or DMD). After dental school, they must complete a specialized residency in oral and maxillofacial pathology, which usually lasts three years and includes training in diagnosing oral diseases using histopathology and laboratory techniques. Certification by a relevant professional board is also often required to practice independently.

How much do oral pathologists make in the US?

Oral pathologists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $200,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $150,000 to over $250,000 depending on experience, location, and workplace setting. They often work in dental schools, hospitals, or private practices and require specialized training and certification in oral and maxillofacial pathology.

What does an oral pathologist do?

An oral pathologist specializes in diagnosing and studying diseases that affect the mouth, jaws, and facial tissues. They examine tissue samples under a microscope, often working in laboratories or clinics, and may collaborate with other dental and medical professionals to determine treatment plans. Certification by relevant dental or medical boards is typically required for this specialized field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Oral Pathologist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Oral Pathologist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Oral Pathologist jobs in California?

For Oral Pathologist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Oral Pathologist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Oral Pathologist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Oral Pathologist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Oral Pathologist job openings:

Oral Pathologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Oral Pathologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $333,080 per year, or $160.1 per hour.

ORAL SURGEON

Contra Costa Health

Martinez, CA

$255K - $290K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Contra Costa Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ORAL SURGEON

Contra Costa County Ambulatory Dental Clinics

Salary: $255,000 - $290,000 Annually

Contra Costa Health is currently hiring an Oral Surgeon to be responsible for the following:

  • Dento-alveolar surgery

  • Treatment of oral pathology

  • Reconstructive surgery

  • Maxillofacial Trauma

Requirements:

  • Possession of the legal requirements for the practice of dentistry in the State of California as determined by the California Board of Dental Examiners.

Special Personal Characteristics:

  • Foster empathetic and inclusive culture in the workplace, including an empathetic understanding of patients in ambulatory dental settings.

  • Willingness to work in ambulatory clinics, tact, patience, emotional stability, alertness, and keenness of observation.

  • Ability to analyze situations and take effective action.

  • Ability to maintain and encourage effective working relationships with staff and other healthcare professionals.

Special Physical Characteristics: Candidates must be able to maintain sufficient strength, agility and endurance to perform dental procedures.

For consideration, please submit your resume and cover letter to Recruit@cchealth.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Compensation Information:
$255000.00 / Annually - $290000.00 / Annually

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