Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Avero Diagnostics is seeking a talented and collaborative Pathologist to join our high-performing team in Bellingham, WA. This critical role involves contributing to the accurate and timely sign-out of a high-volume anatomic pathology caseload while also supporting medical directorship responsibilities for assigned hospital laboratories. The ideal candidate will hold a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and be board-certified in Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP). Additional fellowship training is highly valued, especially in Surgical Pathology, Cytopathology, Uropathology, or Breast Pathology. If you're passionate about diagnostic excellence, collaborative leadership, and making a measurable impact in patient care, we’d love to connect with you. Join Avero and grow your career in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

JOB SUMMARY

The Pathologist is responsible for accurately and timely diagnosing specimens through the evaluation of laboratory tests, tissue samples, and other diagnostic procedures. This role ensures high-quality patient care by providing expert interpretation of histological, cytological, and molecular pathology findings. The Pathologist collaborates with laboratory personnel, clinicians, and other healthcare professionals to guide treatment decisions and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, this position involves supporting laboratory quality assurance programs, assisting in the development of new testing methodologies, and contributing to the overall advancement of diagnostic services.

 Under CLIA regulations (42 CFR Part 493), pathologists must meet high-complexity laboratory director qualifications, which include board certification in Anatomic and/or Clinical Pathology and an active medical license. CAP accreditation aligns with these standards, requiring pathologists to maintain proficiency, participate in quality assurance programs, and follow best practices in diagnostic pathology.

 Avero Diagnostics operates on a 24/7/365 basis; individuals are required to be responsive and work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Schedule flexibility with and without advance notice is required. 

 ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Provide accurate and timely diagnosis of specimens, including histologic and cytologic evaluations.
• Interpret laboratory test data and issue pathology reports by established protocols and quality standards.
• Assume medical directorship responsibilities for assigned hospital laboratories, as needed, including administrative and clinical oversight by regulatory and organizational expectations.
• Contribute to the efficient sign-out of a high-volume anatomic pathology caseload, with an emphasis on accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to laboratory standards.
• Participate in quality assurance, quality control, and proficiency testing programs to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff, clinicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide consultative support and clinical correlation.
• Develop, implement, and maintain departmental operational standards, including diagnostic protocols, workflows, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Support and participate in accreditation processes, ensuring compliance with CLIA, CAP, and other regulatory bodies.
• Provide training, mentorship, and ongoing education for laboratory personnel and medical staff.
• Stay current with advances in pathology and laboratory medicine, integrating new methodologies and best practices as appropriate.
• Serve as a collaborative and effective leader by supporting team development, promoting a culture of inclusion and accountability, and helping ensure alignment with organizational goals and operational standards. Provide guidance to foster communication, cross-functional collaboration, staff development, and overall team well-being. Always maintain a professional attitude and appearance.

 EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/LICENSE 

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree required.
• Board certification or board eligibility in Anatomic Pathology (AP) and Clinical Pathology (CP) required.
• Additional fellowship training is a plus, especially in Surgical Pathology or an additional relevant field (e.g., Cytopathology, Uropathology, or Breast).
• An active and unrestricted medical license in the applicable state of practice is required.

 EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a pathology laboratory or clinical setting preferred.
• Experience with telepathology and digital pathology workflows is a plus.
• Strong background in histopathology and cytology, with the ability to interpret complex cases.
• Experience in a high-volume laboratory environment with an emphasis on diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
• Experience with regulatory inspections (CAP, CLIA, etc.) is preferred.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 

• In-depth knowledge of pathology principles, techniques, and best practices.
• Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS) and electronic medical records (EMR).
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating leadership and professionalism.
• Proficiency in laboratory information systems (LIS) and digital pathology platforms.
• Ability to manage workload effectively in a fast-paced environment, maintaining productivity without compromising quality.
• Commitment to ongoing education and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrates high integrity and maintains confidentiality at all levels.
• Exhibits strong leadership and team management abilities, setting a positive tone and example for team behavior, work ethic, and performance.
• Establishes and maintains solid interpersonal relationships with team members across all organizational levels.
• Communicates professionally and effectively, both in writing and speaking, with the ability to understand and actively listen.
• Motivated, organized, and an initiative-taker, excelling at time management, follow-up, and meeting commitments with a passion for continuous improvement.
• Strong diligence, analytical, and critical thinking skills, with an initiative-taking ability to identify, assess, and resolve complex challenges.
• Proven record of accountability, delivering high-quality work within deadlines.
• Works collaboratively within a team and independently with minimal supervision, adapting to fast-paced, high-growth environments.
• Skilled in conflict resolution, negotiation, and effective facilitation and collaboration.
• Exhibits professionalism in appearance, communication, and actions.
• Proficient in various software applications, including MS Windows, Outlook, Word, Excel, and healthcare databases.
• Regular, predictable attendance and punctuality.
• Focused on team success and goals rather than individual achievement. 

 WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position operates in a fast-paced laboratory and clinical environment, requiring strict adherence to safety and compliance protocols.
• The role involves regular use of laboratory equipment, microscopes, computers, and standard office devices.
• Exposure to biological specimens, chemicals, and infectious agents is possible; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and training are provided.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to sit and use a microscope for extended periods.
• Frequent use of hands for data entry, document review, and equipment handling.
• Requires visual acuity for detailed specimen analysis and report generation.
• The position may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, 10 pounds frequently, and negligible force constantly to move objects.
• Regular activities include talking, hearing, sitting, standing, walking, using hands to manage or feel, grasping, reaching, and performing repetitive movements with wrists, hands, and fingers.
• Specific vision abilities include close visual acuity and the ability to adjust focus for tasks such as data analysis, reading reports, transcribing, viewing computer monitors, and legally operating a motor vehicle.
• Avero is an equal opportunity employer and strives to provide a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities under applicable laws.

The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to provide a general overview of the primary functions, required knowledge and skills, and scope of responsibility for the role. This is not an exhaustive list of all job requirements, and employees may be asked to perform additional duties, work various shifts, or assist in other areas to cover absences, manage peak workloads, or balance staffing needs. These job details are not intended to create an employment contract and are subject to change at the employer's discretion.