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Pathologist Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Pathologists' Assistant

Modesto, CA · On-site

Under the supervision of a pathologist, the Certified Pathologists' Assistant performs gross examination, sampling and dictation of human organs. Provides assistance during intraoperative ...

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Pathologist Assistant information

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$14

$54

$88

How much do pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologist assistant in California is $54.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.93 and $66.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Pathologist Assistant?

A pathologist assistant is a specialized health care worker who conducts tests on specimen samples and performs surgical autopsies under licensed pathologists. As a pathology assistant, you may work in a research lab, hospital, medical examiner’s office, or you may choose to be self-employed and take on jobs at multiple facilities. You dissect tissue to acquire specimens, such as biopsies, and analyze those samples to help diagnose patients or determine problems within the cells. While you can do the majority of the procedures performed by a pathologist, you are not able to diagnose patients; the pathologist reviews your observations and suggestions and determines a diagnosis.

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

To thrive as a Pathologist Assistant, you need a bachelor's degree in a science-related field and graduation from an accredited Pathologists' Assistant program, along with certification such as ASCP-PA. Proficiency with laboratory information systems, specimen dissection tools, and digital imaging equipment is typically required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with pathologists and other healthcare professionals. These skills ensure accurate specimen processing, efficient workflow, and high-quality diagnostic support in clinical and research laboratories.

What is the difference between Pathologist Assistant vs Histotechnologist?

AspectPathologist AssistantHistotechnologist
CredentialsMaster's degree, certification (e.g., ASCP-PA)Post-secondary education, certification (e.g., ASCP-HT)
Work EnvironmentPathology labs, hospitals, medical examinersHistology labs, hospitals, research facilities
Job RoleAssist pathologists with autopsies, gross examination, and specimen prepPrepare tissue samples for microscopic analysis

Pathologist Assistants and Histotechnologists both work in pathology settings, but their roles differ. Pathologist Assistants focus on gross examination and autopsies, while Histotechnologists prepare tissue slides for diagnosis. Credentials and work environments overlap, but their specific duties are distinct.

What are some common challenges a Pathologist Assistant faces when working with large specimen volumes or complex cases?

Pathologist Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing high specimen volume during peak times and ensuring meticulous attention to detail with complex or unusual cases. Balancing efficiency with accuracy is crucial, as errors in specimen processing can impact diagnoses. Additionally, Pathologist Assistants must adapt to evolving lab technologies and protocols, and collaborate closely with pathologists, lab technologists, and surgeons to ensure quality patient care. Developing strong organizational and communication skills can help address these challenges effectively.

What are Pathologist Assistants?

Pathologist Assistants are highly trained health professionals who work under the supervision of a pathologist to provide support in the examination and processing of tissue, surgical specimens, and sometimes autopsies. They help prepare and dissect specimens, ensure proper documentation, and may assist in preparing slides for microscopic analysis. Their work is essential for accurate diagnosis and research in clinical and hospital settings. Pathologist Assistants play a critical role in ensuring that laboratory operations run smoothly and efficiently.
More about Pathologist Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Pathologist jobs in California? The most popular types of Pathologist jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Pathologist Assistant jobs in California? For Pathologist Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pathologist Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pathologist Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pathologist Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Pathologist Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Pathologist Assistant jobs in CA? For Pathologist Assistant jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathologist Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,575 per year, or $54.6 per hour.
Pathologists' Assistant

Pathologists' Assistant

Radius Staffing Solutions

Bakersfield, CA

$105K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Our client near Bakersfield, CA is seeking a Pathologists' Assistant to join their Anatomic Pathology team. Qualified Candidates must have a Master’s degree from a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program and be certified through ASCP.


Position Summary:

As a Pathologists’ Assistant, you will support our client's anatomic pathology operations by performing high-level gross examination of surgical specimens and ensuring the integrity of specimen processing. This role is vital to our mission of delivering accurate, timely pathology results to our clients and their patients.


Key Responsibilities of the Pathologist Assistant (PA):

  • Grossing a wide range of surgical specimens with accuracy and consistency
  • Triage specimens and determine appropriate tissue sampling techniques
  • Prepare detailed gross descriptions and label cassettes
  • Work closely with histotechnologists, pathologists, and support staff to streamline workflow
  • Follow all laboratory safety, compliance, and quality assurance protocols


Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree from a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program
  • ASCP certification (PA) required
  • Experience in a high-volume grossing environment preferred
  • Familiarity with LIS systems and digital pathology tools a plus
  • Strong anatomical knowledge and attention to detail
  • Excellent time management and communication skills


What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary and performance incentives
  • Full health benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, mental health)
  • 401(k) with generous company match
  • Generous PTO and paid holidays
  • Continuing education support and career advancement opportunities
  • A supportive, team-driven work environment


Our client is interviewing now, so apply today. Not the right position for you? We recruit for positions across the country, so please send your resume to Anthony@radiusstaffingsolutions.com.

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About Radius Staffing Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Radius Staffing Solutions operates as a boutique Permanent Recruiting Firm and searches on a contingent level. Radius’ differentiator is credited to our proprietary candidate database, consultative digital-footprint, and a competitive-advantage over the corporate operations. Today, our partners are getting the competitive-edge within talent recruitment. At Radius Staffing Solutions, we take pride in the talent we represent for permanent healthcare staffing opportunities. We do everything in our power to make you feel more than just a number – because you are! Our experienced Recruitment team is niched within each core competencies, allowing the conversation to flow and focus more on your personal and professional “whys”. Our business relationships are treated as partnerships, meaning that your needs are our own. Our partners are nationwide and stretch from metro-markets to rural locations. Although we do not have a magic drawer to find your perfect hire, we do have an incredible team of niched Recruiters and Researchers that make it seem like it’s that simple.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Davie, FL, US

Year founded

2017

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