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Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

CELLNETIX LABS GROUP

Pathologists Assistant

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

The purpose of the Pathologists' Assistant (PA) is to aid pathologists with the diagnosis of each case on the specimen level. Under the supervision of the Grossing Supervisor and general technical ...

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Pathologist Assistant information

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$16

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$102

How much do pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologist assistant in Seattle, WA is $62.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.52 and $76.59 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 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 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.

How long does it take to be a Pathologist Assistant?

Becoming a Pathologist Assistant typically requires completing a bachelor's degree followed by a master's program in pathology assistant studies, which usually takes about 4 to 6 years total. Certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is also recommended and may require additional preparation time.
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Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathologist Assistant job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,040 per year, or $63 per hour.

(Per Diem) Pathologist Assistant I

Incyte Pathology

Tukwila, WA • On-site

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

(Per Diem) Pathologist Assistant I

Summary:

Describes gross anatomic features of routine, uncomplicated, and complicated surgical specimens, ensuring all lesions, markings and sutures are mentioned. Dissects surgical specimens and prepares tissue for histologic processing.   Assists Pathologists in performing autopsies. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs gross examination and dictation of surgical specimens
  • Photographs all appropriate gross specimens for teaching purposes and patient reports
  • Keeps paperwork, instruments and workspace clean, free of blood or other potential contaminating or infectious materials
  • Assists Pathologist in frozen sections
    1. Ability to troubleshoot and take corrective actions for problems with frozen section preparation and staining, or problems with the cryostat
  • Ability to process a fresh lymph node, including touch preps, representative sections in RPMI
  • Ability to open a uterus, bowel, ovary, etc. submitted for OR consultation and present findings to Pathologist
  • Supports the maintenance of the cryostat as required
  • Assists Pathologist in autopsies
    1. Confers with the attending pathologist(s) to identify any special techniques and procedures to be utilized in the completion of examination (e.g. cultures smears; histochemical, immunofluorescence, toxicological, viral, etc), and notifying all personnel directly involved
  • Ensures compliance with all local, federal, CLIA and CAP regulations
    1. Supports department in being inspection ready
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Education/Certifications:

  • BS Degree
    1. MS Degree preferred
  • Graduate of an NAACLS accredited PA Program and pass the ASCP certification exam
    1. Maintain ASCP certification
  • 1+ year experience preferred

*Exceptions made for OJT Certified Pathologist Assistants

Skills and Abilities:

  • Medical terminology
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform effectively under pressure
  • Must be able to work independently
  • Flexible and committed to the team concept
  • Possess excellent interpersonal skills 
  • Willing to instruct and train other staff members
  • Highly adaptable, with the ability to prioritize and focus
  • Ability to effectively work with leadership and staff at all levels of the organization
  • Basic PC skills including MS Office, and the ability to learn new software
  • Maintains professionalism in all facets of the laboratory environment

Per Diem
Per Diem

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