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Pathology Lab Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Travel Pathologists' Assistant

Peoria, IL · On-site

$42.70 - $56.08/hr

CompHealth Lab is seeking a travel Pathologists' Assistant for a travel job in Peoria, Illinois. & Requirements * Specialty: Pathologists' Assistant * Discipline: Allied Health Professional

Showing results 21-40

Pathology Lab Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do pathology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology lab assistant in Illinois is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pathology lab assistant?

Pathology Lab Assistants are healthcare professionals who support pathologists and laboratory technologists in medical laboratories. They are responsible for preparing and processing samples, labeling specimens, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring that the lab runs smoothly. Their work helps pathologists diagnose diseases by ensuring samples are properly handled and processed. Additionally, they may assist with administrative tasks and help maintain a safe and sterile laboratory environment.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a pathology lab assistant?

A Pathology Lab Assistant's daily responsibilities often include preparing and labeling specimens, assisting with the setup and maintenance of laboratory equipment, and ensuring that all samples are processed accurately and efficiently. They play a vital role in maintaining the lab's workflow, supporting pathologists and technologists by handling administrative tasks, and ensuring that all documentation is complete and compliant with regulations. Collaboration and attention to detail are crucial, as their work directly impacts the quality and timeliness of diagnostic results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pathology lab assistant?

To thrive as a Pathology Lab Assistant, you need a basic science background, attention to detail, and relevant laboratory experience, often gained through an associate degree or certificate in laboratory science. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen handling protocols, and standard lab equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate specimen processing, support efficient laboratory operations, and maintain the integrity of diagnostic results.

What is the difference between Pathology Lab Assistant vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectPathology Lab AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field; certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities
Job RoleAssist with specimen collection, prepare samples, maintain lab equipmentPerform complex tests, analyze samples, report results

Pathology Lab Assistants typically support laboratory operations through specimen handling and basic tasks, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform detailed testing and analysis. Both roles work in similar environments, but Technicians require more advanced training and certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How do I become a pathology lab assistant?

To become a pathology lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in laboratory procedures. Some positions require certification or on-the-job training in specimen handling, lab safety, and basic testing techniques. Relevant skills include attention to detail, organization, and familiarity with laboratory equipment and protocols.

Is it hard to become a pathology lab assistant?

Becoming a pathology lab assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may require certification or on-the-job training, but the role generally involves learning specific skills related to specimen handling and lab equipment. The difficulty varies depending on individual background and the complexity of the laboratory environment.

What do pathology lab assistants do?

Pathology lab assistants support laboratory operations by preparing and processing tissue, blood, and other samples for analysis. They often handle tasks such as labeling specimens, maintaining lab equipment, and assisting pathologists with tests, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of lab safety protocols. Their work helps ensure accurate diagnostic results in a clinical setting.

What job categories do people searching Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Pathology Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Pathology Lab Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,809 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$17.63 - $24.91/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Rush University Medical Center rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: RML Pathology

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0. 9 and 1. 0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (6:00AM - 2:30PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay Range: $17.63 - $24.91 per hour
Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Summary:
This position is responsible for supporting laboratory operations by accepting, preparing, and processing specimens; maintaining laboratory equipment; and ensuring accurate data entry and specimen tracking.

Other information:
•A high school diploma or equivalent PLUS two years of documented work experience using formal, standard laboratory procedures OR
•An Associate Degree from an accredited intuition any of the following areas:
Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Medical Laboratory Science or Clinical Laboratory Science.
•This position requires teamwork to achieve common goals and meet deadlines to provide quality care to clients and patients.
Disclaimer:
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

Responsibilities:
•Performs multiple computer entry, inquiry, and receiving functions. Performs transcription of laboratory orders and registration activities when needed. Demonstrates good communication and customer service skills on the phone and in person. Calls critical results, documents to whom and that a “read back” was performed and within the expected time frame.
•Accessions and processes specimens according to the appropriate procedure prepare specimens accordingly for transport or delivery. Recognizes and resolves any specimen and equipment problems.
•Utilizes required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as defined by the lab area. Labels and processes specimens properly. Performs all laboratory procedures efficiently and effectively with minimal supervision once trained. All testing must be done following Rush-approved Policies and Procedures.
•Performs required preventative maintenance, including corrective action and documentation, for all procedures and instrumentation.
•Performs basic troubleshooting of equipment and processes with minimal assistance, documents
action and notifies appropriate personnel, for example, supervisors, of problems all the time. Able to recognize when additional help is needed and seek out that help.
•Disinfects the area at the beginning and end of each shift; Accepts no inappropriate specimens. Notifies the appropriate person of specimens that must be drawn or collected again and documents the notification.
•Delivers specimens to RUSH laboratory locations, and/or loads specimens on instrumentation; Additional job duties will be defined by the laboratory's specific bench or assignment competencies.

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.


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