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Pathology Assistant Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Pathologist Assistant

Modesto, CA · On-site

... Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Essential Functions Preparation, gross description, dictation and ... as needed Assist with frozen section tissue selection and preparation Retrieve the patient ...

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$15

$56

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How much do pathology assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology assistant in Modesto, CA is $56.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.57 and $68.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pathology assistant?

Pathology Assistants are highly trained allied health professionals who work under the supervision of a pathologist to assist in the examination, processing, and analysis of tissue specimens in a laboratory setting. They play a crucial role in preparing and dissecting surgical specimens, performing postmortem examinations, and ensuring proper documentation for diagnostic purposes. Pathology Assistants help streamline laboratory workflow, allowing pathologists to focus on making accurate diagnoses and treatment recommendations. Their work is essential in hospitals, research laboratories, and forensic settings.

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

To thrive as a Pathology Assistant, you need a solid background in biological sciences, a master's degree from an accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program, and certification from the ASCP. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, specimen processing equipment, and digital imaging tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate specimen analysis, efficient workflow, and clear collaboration with pathologists to support patient diagnoses.

What are some of the typical challenges a pathology assistant faces when managing high specimen volumes in a clinical setting?

Pathology Assistants often encounter periods of high specimen volume, which require efficient time management and meticulous attention to detail. Balancing rapid specimen grossing with maintaining quality and accuracy can be challenging, especially when handling complex or unusual cases. Effective communication with pathologists and laboratory staff is crucial to ensure workflow remains smooth and that urgent cases are prioritized appropriately. Additionally, adapting to evolving protocols and new technologies is important for maintaining best practices and patient safety.

What is the difference between Pathology Assistant vs Histotechnologist?

AspectPathology AssistantHistotechnologist
CredentialsMaster's degree or certification in pathology assistingCertification in histotechnology, such as HT or HTL
Work EnvironmentPathology labs, hospitals, medical examiner officesHistology labs, hospitals, research facilities
Job RoleAssist pathologists by preparing and examining tissue samplesPrepare tissue samples for microscopic examination

Pathology Assistants and Histotechnologists both work in pathology labs and handle tissue samples, but Pathology Assistants focus on assisting pathologists with gross examination and case preparation, while Histotechnologists specialize in tissue processing and slide preparation. Their roles are complementary but distinct within the pathology workflow.

How hard is it to become a pathology assistant?

Becoming a pathology assistant typically requires a bachelor's degree in a biological or health science field, followed by a master's degree or postgraduate certificate in pathology assisting. Candidates also need to gain clinical experience and obtain certification, such as the ASCP Board of Certification, which can take several years of education and training. The process is competitive and demands a strong understanding of anatomy, pathology techniques, and laboratory procedures.

What can I do as a Pathology Assistant?

A Pathology Assistant supports pathologists by preparing, grossing, and describing surgical specimens, as well as assisting with autopsies. They often work in laboratories or hospitals, requiring knowledge of anatomy, pathology procedures, and proper safety protocols. Certification or training in pathology assisting is typically necessary to perform these duties effectively.

What are popular job titles related to Pathology Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA?

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What job categories do people searching Pathology Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pathology Assistant jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Pathology Assistant jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Pathology Assistant job openings:

Pathology Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathology Assistant job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,930 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Pathologist Assistant

Yosemite Pathology & Precision Pathology

Modesto, CA • On-site

$104K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Pathologist Assistant

Yosemite Pathology (YP) is a private independent pathologist-owned and operated surgical pathology and cytology laboratory based in Modesto, CA. YP provides comprehensive state-of-the-art, reliable, and accurate diagnostic services to its physicians and major area hospitals in the Alameda, Amador, Calaveras, Contra Costa, Kern, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Solano, Stanislaus and Tuolumne counties.

YP offers a full spectrum of tissue pathology, cytology, and histology services, including examination of gynecologic specimens, body fluids, and fine needle aspiration specimens. We also offer an extensive array of special stains and immunohistochemistry to assist in the management of oncologic and non-oncologic diseases. The laboratory is supported by highly qualified Histotechnologists, Cytotechnologists, Technicians, and office staff who offer excellent service.

Under the supervision of a pathologist, the Pathologist Assistant performs gross examination, sampling, and dictation of human organs. Also provides assistance during intraoperative consultations such as frozen sections and gross examinations. The Pathologist Assistant requires certification from the American Association of Pathologists' Assistants or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

Shift: Monday - Friday 4:00 pm - 12:30 am

Essential Functions

  • Preparation, gross description, dictation, and dissection of human tissue
  • Select representative sections for embedding, staining, and microscopic evaluation
  • Ensure appropriate specimen accessioning
  • Obtains tissue such as blood and toxicological material for studies such as flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry
  • Photograph pertinent gross specimens as needed
  • Assist with frozen section tissue selection and preparation
  • Retrieve the patient's medical chart and other pertinent data for review with the attending pathologist
  • Confer with the attending pathologist to identify any special techniques or procedures to be utilized
  • Ensures the proper maintenance of equipment
  • Provision of adequate supplies
  • Cleaning of grossing stations
  • Disposal of biological and administrative waste
  • Solve any discrepancies or other issues that may arise

Minimum Job Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences or related field
  • Successful completion of an NAACLS-accredited pathologists' assistant program.
  • Current certification from the American Association of Pathologists' Assistants or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
  • Basic knowledge of human anatomy, macro-surgical techniques, and general laboratory skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to obtain and prepare tissue for evaluation and to provide assistance to pathologists in a timely and quality manner.
  • Knowledge/ability to become knowledgeable in voice recognition software, internet, and multiple-interfaced systems, various laboratory information systems, Excel, and MS Word or equivalent applications.
  • High degree of technical competence and knowledge of histological techniques.

Key Skills Needed

  • Demonstrated ability to organize workload.
  • Must possess a professional demeanor and have experience that demonstrates problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and work independently with minimal supervision
  • Must be detail-oriented, self-motivated, a fast learner, and possess excellent time management, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to take direction and use independent judgment to coordinate and meet multiple deadlines
  • Familiarity with HIPAA and security compliance requirements.
  • The ideal candidate will be willing to take on new challenges, have a proven record for producing results, be willing to learn and grow with the company.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • The compensation range is $104,000 - $145,000 annually (non-exempt) paid semi-monthly on an eight (8) hour per day, forty (40) hours per week. Final salary offer subject to multiple factors including candidate experience and expertise, geographic location of the role, and current market data.
  • 401(k) includes an employer match up to 4%
  • Robust health plans including dental, vision, life, and mental health support.
  • Offer generous annual vacation and sick time
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Annual scrub allowance for Lab roles

All offers of employment at Yosemite Pathology are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates.

Apply