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Pathologists Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Pathology Assistant Job Code: 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 ...

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Pathologists Assistant information

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$15

$57

$93

How much do pathologists assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathologists assistant in Reston, VA is $57.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.29 and $70.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Pathologists' Assistants?

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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Pathologists Assistant jobs in Reston, VA? For Pathologists Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pathologists Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Pathologists Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Pathologists Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Pathologists Assistant job openings:
Pathology Assistant

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Re-posted 20 days ago


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Job description

Pathology Assistant 

Job Code: 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 achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Health Northern VA & Culpeper, we believe in caring for the whole person by getting to know - and making connections with - our patients. By combining the talent and expertise of our people, the breadth of capabilities across our system, and our commitment to helping our communities get better and stay healthy, we are improving the patient experience.

As a UVA Health Northern VA & Culpeper team member, you will have a voice in patient care decisions, support the most advanced medical technologies and feel a strong sense of satisfaction from making a difference in people's lives every day.

 

JOB TYPE 

Classification: Exempt

Supervises Positions: No

 

JOB SUMMARY 

Description:

The Pathology Assistant reports directly to the UVA Community Health System Medical Group with dotted line to UVA Community Health Anatomic Pathology Medical Director and Anatomic Pathology Supervisor.

Job Duties include:

  • Performs gross examinations, dissection and description of tissues received in Surgical Pathology and Autopsy Services. These duties may include but are not limited to:
    • Workload is prioritized and managed to meet expected Turn-Around-Time (TAT) and specific specimen requirements.
    • Competence is maintained and new skills are added as procedures and technologies change.
    • Tissue sampling, gross descriptions and dictations are accurate and according to procedure.
    • Specimens are photographed when appropriate for archival purposes.
    • Assisting with tissue procurement, collecting tissue samples per research protocols.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of quality, safety and compliance programs.
    • Compliance guidelines are applied to testing and reporting activities.
    • Chemicals, hazardous wastes and sharps are handled accurately and safely. 
    • Quality Assurance data is collected and summarized for reporting as needed.
    • Suggestions are made for Process Improvement initiatives.
  • Participates in the development, implementation and maintenance of Surgical Pathology protocols and budgetary goals.
    • Gross Room manual is updated annually to reflect current methodology, medical staff requests and all federal, state and laboratory accreditation standards.
    • Electronic information/data systems are used to accurately access and input tissue sample information and departmental communications.
    • Budget goals are set and maintained through participation in departmental meetings and appropriate usage of resources.
    • Ensures case documentation supports appropriate charge codes and descriptions.
    • Collaborates with compliance, laboratory billing, and lab leadership to perform charge and billing audits as needed.
  • Performs area-specific support/clinical activities.
    • Accuracy and quality are maintained for activities.
    • Specific support functions are handled in an organized and timely fashion.
    • Deadlines for activities are met.
    • Specific support functions are handled in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.

Analysis:

  • Demonstrates proactive problem solving and identifies initiatives to streamline and produce high quality work.
  • Supports identified turn-around-times and quality metrics

Communication: Ensures timely and consistent communication. 

  • Ensures timely responses to team requests and inquiries.   
  • Provides high-level patient and customer service.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with other healthcare professionals.
  • Collaborates professionally within multi-disciplinary teams.

Quality: Checks and controls quality and accuracy of work

  • Prioritizes workflow ensuring all services are performed in a timely manner.  
  • Considerable knowledge of laboratory testing names
  • Identifies and participates in process improvement opportunities

Teamwork: Works within a team to achieve patient and team goals.  

  • Participates in the onboarding and training of new team members.  
  • Shares and initiates regular and professional communication with team members. 
  • Demonstrates a willingness to adjust activities to accommodate the needs of team members/internal customers. 
  • Resolves conflicts independently, as appropriate. 
  • Accepts responsibility for actions and acts positively upon feedback from others.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree Required.  Graduate of a NAACLS accredited formal Pathologist Assistant Program required.
  • Preferred - Master's Degree in Pathology Assistant.

Experience:

1 year preferred

Licensure: ASCP certified or eligible

Additional Skills/Requirements Required:  NA

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred

  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: 16A, Medical Practitioner

Work Function/Activity:  

OTHER

  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes 
  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes
  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: Yes 

The base compensation range for this role is  $49.15  - $62.06 hourly.


Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.  Please note that the pay range does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.
 


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