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Pathologists Assistant Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

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Pathologists Assistant information

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How much do pathologists assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologists assistant in Pittsburgh, PA is $53.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.26 and $65.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pathologists assistant?

Pathologists' Assistants are highly trained healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a pathologist to examine, process, and prepare tissue specimens for diagnosis. They assist with autopsies, gross examination, and dissection of surgical specimens, ensuring accurate and efficient laboratory workflow. Pathologists' Assistants play a crucial role in helping pathologists diagnose diseases and conditions by preparing high-quality samples and maintaining detailed records. Their work is essential in hospitals, laboratories, and research settings.

What are some typical challenges faced by a pathologists assistant in a hospital setting?

Pathologists Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of complex specimens, adhering to strict turnaround times, and maintaining accuracy in gross examination and specimen dissection. They must also ensure proper communication with pathologists, technologists, and laboratory staff to facilitate accurate diagnoses. Balancing these responsibilities while complying with safety and quality standards can be demanding but is essential for optimal patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pathologists assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pathologists Assistant, you need strong knowledge of anatomy, specimen dissection, and pathology processes, typically acquired through a master’s degree from a NAACLS-accredited program and ASCP certification. Proficiency in laboratory information systems, specimen imaging tools, and grossing instruments is essential. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accurate specimen analysis and seamless collaboration with pathologists and laboratory staff. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining diagnostic accuracy, laboratory efficiency, and high standards of patient care.

What is the difference between Pathologists Assistant vs Histotechnologist?

AspectPathologists AssistantHistotechnologist
CredentialsMaster's degree, certification (e.g., ASCP-PA)Associate's or Bachelor's degree, certification (e.g., ASCP-HT)
Work EnvironmentPathology labs, hospitals, medical examiner officesHistology labs, hospitals, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesPreparing tissue samples, assisting in autopsies, gross examinationPreparing tissue slides, staining, microscopic analysis

Pathologists Assistants and Histotechnologists both work in pathology settings, but their roles differ. Pathologists Assistants focus on gross examination and assisting pathologists, while Histotechnologists prepare slides for microscopic review. Credentials and work environments overlap, but their specific duties distinguish them.

How hard is it to become a pathologists assistant?

Becoming a pathologists assistant typically requires completing a master's degree in pathology assistant studies or a related field, along with relevant clinical training. Certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is often required or preferred, and strong knowledge of anatomy, histology, and laboratory procedures is essential. The process can take several years of education and training but is considered achievable with dedication and appropriate qualifications.

Is it worth becoming a Pathologists Assistant?

A Pathologists Assistant is a trained healthcare professional who assists pathologists with examining and processing tissue samples, often working in laboratories or hospitals. The role offers a stable career with opportunities for specialization and requires certification and knowledge of laboratory procedures. Job prospects are generally good due to ongoing demand in pathology services.

Where do pathologists assistants make the most money?

Pathologists assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a high cost of living and greater demand for specialized medical professionals, such as large metropolitan areas or regions with advanced healthcare facilities. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of cases handled, with some institutions offering additional compensation for overtime or specialized skills.

What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Pathologists Assistant jobs?

Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Pathologists Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Pathologists Assistant job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,723 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Sr. Pathologists' Assistant

UPMC Senior Communities

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$44.77 - $77.45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Pathologists' Assistant / Senior Pathologists' Assistant
Location: Pittsburgh, PA in the UPMC urban pathology labs (Presbyterian, Shadyside, and Magee-Womens Hospitals)
Schedule: Daylight hours with flexible start times between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM, offering a combination of 8- and 10-hour shifts after initial training completion. Rotating holiday coverage.
Join the supportive and collaborative team at UPMC Presbyterian's Urban Pathology Labs, serving Presbyterian, Shadyside, and Magee facilities in Pittsburgh. Whether you're a new graduate or an experienced Pathologists' Assistant, you'll thrive in an environment that fosters growth and learning. Work alongside world-renowned pathologists and gain exposure to a fascinating case mix, including rare and complex specimens.
One of the greatest benefits of working in a dynamic urban lab environment is the ability to network and collaborate with peers across the entire UPMC system. UPMC supports a robust Pathologists' Assistant network through the UPMC Lab Service Center, fostering teamwork and shared initiatives. By joining us, you will be at the forefront of operational excellence and have ample opportunity to advance your career both within and beyond the organization.
Applicants will be placed into the appropriate job title and salary based on their individual experience and education.
UPMC is currently offering a generous sign-on bonus for Pathologists' Assistants!
Responsibilities:
  • Assist manager or Supervisor with administrative functions as they relate to the Pathologists' Assistant portion of the department including assisting with development of quality assurance monitors, quality control monitors, data gathering and preparations of QA report, input for performance reviews, budget preparation and monitoring, regulatory compliance and continuing education and training.
  • Oversee the proper handling, storage and disposition of all surgical and autopsy tissue while adhering to the regulatory and compliance standards regarding biohazard and safety.
  • Ensure that tests are prepared properly at all stages from specimen collection through results reporting, and performs additional special handling of the specimens if necessary or requested (i.e. radiography, photography, special fixation, cultures and tissue procurement).
  • Competent at operating the Laboratory Information System and Medical Archival Retrieval System relative to the functions of the pathology assistants' team.
  • Perform special projects such as research protocols when required.
  • Provide independent technical leadership, consulting with the Manager or Supervisor on unusual and complex cases, such as oncology cases where the tumor has spread into other organs, cancers that extend into surrounding structures, autopsies on complicated cases, and initial intraoperative examination and tissue banking for uncommon specimens of interest to research such as wide section melanomas and thoracic biopsies. Provides ongoing training and orientation to the pathology assistant team members.
  • Examine and prepare surgical pathology cases for microscopic evaluation by providing gross description, dissection and sections of each case as defined by the Surgical Pathology Manual while maintaining accurate records of all activities.
  • Participate in and performs frozen sections, intraoperative consultations, autopsies and prenatal procedures. File and retrieve surgical and autopsy materials and maintains accurate records of all such activities.

Qualifications:
Senior Pathologist's Assistant:
  • Graduate of a NAACLS accredited, Master's degree pathologist's assistant training program, or Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or Medical Technology or a related field and 5 years clinical experience in Anatomic or Clinical Pathology is required.
  • One year working as a certified Pathologist's Assistant preferred.

Pathologist's Assistant:
  • Completion of 4-year degree in Biological Sciences or Medical Technology or meets AAPA requirements for college credits defined in the science disciplines from an accredited institution.
  • Prefer graduate of a NAACLS accredited, master's degree pathologist's assistant training program, or bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or Medical Technology or a related field and 5 years clinical experience in Anatomic or Clinical Pathology is required.
  • Analytical and technical ability necessary to independently evaluate patient specimens and clinical data to appropriate sample tissue relevant to diagnostic evaluation and recognize organ and tissue anomalies.
  • All procedures or job-related tasks involve an inherent potential for mucous membrane or skin contact with blood, body fluids or tissues.
  • A potential for spills or splashes of biohazard substances does exist. Exposure to normal laboratory lights and noises and occasional exposure to toxic and carcinogenic chemicals.

This position requires regular movement throughout the facility, including walking, standing, and lifting materials or equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. This position requires the ability to accurately distinguish colors.
Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
  • ASCP required within 12 months of hire.
  • Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran