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Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Pathologist Assistant Per Diem

Chicago, IL · On-site

$10 - $375/hr

Required Job Qualifications: • Bachelor's/Master's degree from an accredited Pathology Assistant program. • Certified Pathologist Assistant. • Ability to work on multiple projects with ...

Trustaff Allied

Travel Pathology Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

... pathologist with rendering the provisional anatomic diagnosis, composing the clinical history ... Pathology Assistant About Trustaff Allied Our traveler-first attitude has set us apart from other ...

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How much do pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologist assistant in Illinois is $53.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.16 and $65.24 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 can a pathologist assistant do?

A pathologist assistant supports pathologists by preparing, examining, and documenting tissue samples, assisting with autopsies, and managing laboratory tasks. They often work in a laboratory setting, requiring knowledge of histology, anatomy, and laboratory safety protocols. Certification and a strong understanding of pathology procedures are typically necessary for this role.

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.
More about Pathologist Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Pathologist jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Pathologist jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Pathologist Assistant jobs in Illinois? For Pathologist Assistant jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pathologist Assistant jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Pathologist Assistant jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Pathologist Assistant jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Pathologist Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Pathologist Assistant jobs in IL? For Pathologist Assistant jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathologist Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,517 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Pathologist Assistant II, Surgical Pathology - PNE

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Chicago, IL • On-site

$44.93/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Northwestern Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 390 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
The Pathologist Assistant II - PNE reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
In collaboration with the pathologist, the Pathologist Assistant II is responsible for the gross pathology description and sampling of biopsy and/or other selected complex surgical tissue specimens. The dissection sampling and description is performed in accordance with established procedures to aid the pathologist in establishing the diagnosis. The Pathologist Assistant II assists with resident training and provides a variety of activities in support of basic laboratory operations.
Responsibilities:
  • Performs all duties as scheduled by pathologist.
  • Performs gross examination and dissection of surgical biopsies and large complicated specimens. Maintains specimen integrity and accurate legible specimen identification throughout all technical and clerical processes. Produces high-quality, high-volume work in a timely fashion, always finding better/more efficient ways to do things.
  • Provides assistance with intra-operative consultations. Cuts, stains, and coverslips cryostat sections for timely review. Documents appropriate turn-around-time tracking information.
  • Prepares specimens for imaging and photographs specimens. Maintains imaging equipment and files. Organizes radiology files and photography.
  • Participates in perinatal and adult autopsies as assigned. Reviews autopsy permit and patient charts. Performs related autopsy procedures, reviews gross and microscopic findings with attending, and prepares draft PAD as appropriate.
  • Assists with orientation and instruction of pathology residents and medical students in Surgical Pathology and Autopsy procedures to include specimen description, dissections, dictation techniques, basic specimen handling, and use of Anatomic Pathology equipment. Provides clinical performance feedback on pathology residents.
  • Prepares materials and participates in conferences with residents, pathologists, and clinical staff.
  • Assists in grossing and distributing tissues and organs to approved researchers. Performs technical and clerical tasks related to research projects.RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Exercises independent judgment in the performance of technical responsibilities. Prioritizes technical workload based on assignment or established priorities, responds effectively to changes in workflow adjusting work to incorporate STAT requests or fluctuations in work volume.
  • Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn-around times. Cleans, disinfects, performs, and documents routine equipment and workspace maintenance per SOP. Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
  • Assists manager and/or pathologist in development and implementing new and special procedures or techniques. May assist in maintaining procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.
  • Participates in quality and process improvement efforts. Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to manager, implements and monitors changes as requested.
  • Maintains a clean and safe work area. Follows established laboratory safety procedures in accordance with those regulatory bodies such as OSHA, FDA, EPA, etc. Observes and practices Universal Precautions when handling biohazardous material. Assumes a proactive role in laboratory safety and participates in development of safety protocols in surgical pathology. Performs minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
  • Participates in cost containment initiatives. Responsible for efficient use of supplies and reagents and proper operation of instrumentation.
  • Provides backup assistance in a variety of activities in support of basic laboratory operations.
  • Records all documentation consistently and legibly. May create Standard Operating Procedures. Maintains manuals and electronic records for easy retrieval of data as necessary. Investigates, escalates, and documents any discrepancies or unresolved issues appropriately.
  • Fosters department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication. Adapts to change and handles stressful situations effectively
  • Takes initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.
  • Works off shifts and weekends as needed dependent on workload and department schedule.

Qualifications
Required:
  • Masters of Science
  • Pathologist Assistant II's degree, and Pathologist Assistant II Certification (ASCP) or eligible for certification or Illinois licensed MD/DO with current or completed enrollment in anatomical pathology

Preferred:
  • N/A

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

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