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Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

MFA Co

Pathologist Assistant, Cedar Hill

Washington, DC · On-site

$88K - $112K/yr

Pathologist Assistant, Cedar Hill Job Category: Patient Support Services Requisition Number: PATHO005827 Posted: August 19, 2025 Full-Time On-site Salary Range: $88,300 USD to $112,800 USD Washington ...

MFA

Pathologist Assistant, Cedar Hill

Washington, DC · On-site

$42.45 - $54.23/hr

A pathologist's assistant is qualified to perform gross dissection, description, and submission of tissue specimens for surgical pathology examination, preparation of tissue specimens for ...

Hylton-Rodic Law

Pathologists' Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

At EPIARX, our Pathologists' Assistants are more than technical contributors. They are trusted ... What You'll Actually Do You will serve as a key clinical support resource for the pathologist and ...

UVA Health

Pathology Assistant

Manassas, VA · On-site

PA6000 Full Time opening for Pathologist Assistant at PWMC with some travel to HAMC. Full time variable mid shift, potential Tuesday-Saturday. ABOUT US We are welcoming a new era in healthcare where ...

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Pathologist Assistant information

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How much do pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologist assistant in Washington is $62.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.28 and $76.25 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.

How do you become a pathologist assistant?

To become a pathologist assistant, one typically needs a bachelor's degree followed by a master's degree in an accredited pathology assistant program. Certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is often required, and candidates must gain practical experience through supervised training. Strong knowledge of anatomy, pathology, and laboratory procedures is essential for this role.

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 pathologist assistants do?

Pathologist assistants perform tasks such as gross examination, dissection, and description of surgical specimens, assisting pathologists in preparing tissue samples for microscopic analysis. They may also document findings, prepare reports, and handle laboratory equipment, often working in a hospital or laboratory setting with specialized training and certification. Their role supports accurate diagnosis and requires knowledge of pathology procedures and safety protocols.

What is the highest salary for a pathologist assistant?

The highest salaries for pathologist assistants can reach around $100,000 to $120,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-cost-of-living areas. Salaries vary based on location, employer, and level of expertise, with some earning additional benefits or overtime pay.

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.

Is it hard to be a pathologist assistant?

Becoming a pathologist assistant requires completing a master's degree in pathology assistant studies or a related field, along with certification. The job involves detailed anatomical and histological work, requiring strong attention to detail, technical skills, and the ability to work in a laboratory environment, which can be challenging due to the precision and responsibility involved.

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
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What job categories do people searching Pathologist Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Pathologist Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Pathologist Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Pathologist Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Pathologist Assistant jobs in WA? For Pathologist Assistant jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathologist Assistant job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,341 per year, or $62.7 per hour.
Pathologist Assistant (PRN)

Pathologist Assistant (PRN)

The GW Medical Faculty Associates

Washington, DC • On-site

$45.87 - $62.02/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
A pathologist's assistant provides anatomic pathology services under the direction and supervision of an attending pathologist. A pathologist's assistant is qualified to perform gross dissection, description, and submission of tissue specimens for surgical pathology examination, preparation of tissue specimens for intraoperative consultation/frozen section examination, and dissection and examination of organs and tissues during autopsy examination.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Perform gross dissection, description, and submission of tissue specimens for histologic processing and surgical pathology examination.
  • Provide a detailed and accurate description of tissue specimens using an electronic dictation system.
  • Perform gross dissection, description, and preparation of tissue specimens for intraoperative consultation/frozen section examination, including preparation of cryostat sections and smears/imprints and staining of slides for microscopic examination.
  • Preparation and submission of tissue specimens and other biological specimens for special laboratory studies, including flow cytometric and molecular analyses.
  • Perform dissection and examination of organs and tissues during an autopsy examination.
  • Prepare for autopsy examination by obtaining patients' medical records and arranging radiographic examinations.
  • Perform gross and microscopic photography of specimens.
  • Participate in teaching pathology residents in gross tissue dissection and description techniques, intraoperative consultation/frozen section examination, and autopsy dissection and examination.
  • Assist in the preparation of materials for educational conferences.
  • Assist with departmental quality assurance/quality improvement activities and compliance with all CLIA, CAP, TJC, and DC DOH standards.
  • Clean and maintain surgical pathology, autopsy, and other equipment.
  • Perform duties relating to the administrative maintenance of surgical pathology protocols, procedures, reports, and data
  • Assist in standardizing and implementing new protocols and procedures, as necessary.
  • May be exposed to disagreeable odors and infectious diseases; therefore, must take proper safety precautions necessary to protect their health and well-being.

Minimum Qualifications
Education
  • Master of Science degree from a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists' Assistant training program.
  • Graduated from an ACGME-accredited Anatomic Pathology residency training program

Licensure/Certifications
  • Current and valid certification as a Pathologist Assistant by the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
  • If you are a physician, then you must have graduated from an ACGME-accredited Anatomic Pathology residency training program and have an unrestricted medical license for the District of Columbia. The ASCP certification is waived.

Physical Requirements
  • Sit, stand, bend, reach, and walk for long periods of time in an office setting.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull over 100 lbs. as part of the role.
  • Regularly exposed to healthcare settings that may require personal protective equipment.
  • Requires manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, calculator, copier machine, and other equipment.

About GW MFA
MFA physicians provide comprehensive patient care, offering one practice for the whole person with 52 medical and surgical specialties. As members of the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences faculty, MFA providers are teachers and mentors for medical students, residents, fellows, and researchers preserving the rich tradition of academics, research, and healing. In addition to maintaining a closely integrated alliance with The George Washington University and The George Washington University Hospital (GWUH) which is separately owned and operated by Universal Health Services (UHS), the GW MFA has active referring relationships with 12 area hospitals.
The GW MFA's leading healthcare presence in the DC metro region is complemented by a network of community-based practices in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Given its geographic location in central NW Washington, DC, and proximity to more than 175 resident embassies, the MFA continues to evolve its international clinical outreach.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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