1

Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

The candidates would join another Pathologist and Pathologists' Assistant who are colleagues of a collegial group of seven pathologists and two Pathologists' Assistants in a nearby city, Davenport ...

Pathologist Assistant information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$13

$52

$84

How much do pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologist assistant in Dubuque, IA is $52.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.01 and $63.46 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.

What job categories do people searching Pathologist Assistant jobs in Dubuque, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pathologist Assistant jobs in Dubuque, IA are:

What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Pathologist Assistant jobs?

Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Pathologist Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Pathologist Assistant job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,520 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Locum - Physician - Pathology Dubuque, IA

Pathology

Asbury, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Job Posting

Schedule/Dates of Coverage:

Dates of Coverage: One week/month

Schedule (Shifts and Hours): One week/month M-F 8-5 and call on weekends/nights

Call Schedule: weekends/nights

Call Ratio: 1:2

Details:

Practice Setting: Hospital based

Reason for Coverage: Busy practice with one provider needing some time off

What Type(s) of Certification Does Your Laboratory Hold: CAP

Approx. Number of Cases Read Per Day: varies by the cases - approx 40 surgical/cytology

What Will Be the Locum Tenen Physician's Responsibility for the Clinical Lab: Clinical lab-blood bank/resolve difficult antibodies hematology - reviewing out of the norm peripheral blood smears

Will the Locum Provider Be Responsible for Grossing Their Own Specimens: No

Will the Locum Provider Be Cutting Their Own Frozen Sections on the Cryostat: No

How Many Physicians in the Group: 1.5

How Many Histotechnologists: 4

How Many Pathology Assistants: 1

How Many Cytotechnologists: 2

Will the Locum Tenens Physician be Required to Supervise Other Healthcare Providers: Yes

Will Other Pathologists Be Present During the Locum's Coverage: No

Type of Cryostat: Leica

Type of Microscope: Olympus

Cytology Proficiency Exam Required for GYN Cytolology: no

Method of Preparation: Surepath

Documentation System/EMR: CoPath

Estimated Credentialing Timeframe: 90 days

Required Anatomic Pathology Procedures:

  • Surgical Pathology
  • GI Pathology
  • GU Pathology
  • Dermatopathology
  • Cytology
  • Autopsy

Required Clinical Pathology Procedures:

  • Hematology
  • Microbiology
  • Chemistry/Serology
  • Blood Bank

Additional Required Procedures: Attend and give immediate adequacy statements for fine needle aspirations

Submission Requirements

ALL ITEMS BELOW MUST BE LISTED AT TIME OF NAME CLEAR TO AVOID REDIRECT

  • Board Certified - REQUIRED
  • IA License (or willing to obtain) - REQUIRED
  • APCP boards - REQUIRED