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Pathology Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Call patients with lab and pathology results and relay instructions from provider * A small portion ... Assistant experience is highly preferred * 1 year of EMR system experience is preferred Education:

Medical Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Call patients with lab and pathology results and relay instructions from provider * A small portion ... Assistant experience is highly preferred * 1 year of EMR system experience is preferred Education:

Lab Tech II/Phlebotomy

Columbia, MD · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Reviews lab requisitions for accuracy and collects pertinent clinical and insurance information ... medical assistant course and passed exam for ASCP, IAPT, IAPS, or other Department of Pathology ...

Medical Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Order and schedule lab tests as directed; review results and annotate appropriate disposition ... Scan signed consents, office appointment forms, laboratory, and pathology reports into EMR.

Medical Assistant

Vienna, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Order and schedule lab tests as directed; review results and annotate appropriate disposition ... Scan signed consents, office appointment forms, laboratory, and pathology reports into EMR.

Medical Assistant

Vienna, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Order and schedule lab tests as directed; review results and annotate appropriate disposition ... Scan signed consents, office appointment forms, laboratory, and pathology reports into EMR.

Medical Assistant

Vienna, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Order and schedule lab tests as directed; review results and annotate appropriate disposition ... Scan signed consents, office appointment forms, laboratory, and pathology reports into EMR.

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Pathology Lab Assistant information

See Washington salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do pathology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology lab assistant in Washington is $22.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pathology Lab Assistant, and why are they important?

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.

Is it hard to become a pathologist assistant?

Becoming a pathologist assistant requires completing a master's degree in pathology assistant studies or a related field, along with gaining certification from the American Society for Clinical Pathology. The process involves specialized education and training, making it a competitive and demanding career path for those interested in laboratory and medical work. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with medical terminology are essential skills for success in this role.

Where do pathology assistants make the most money?

Pathology assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for specialized healthcare professionals, such as large metropolitan areas or states with advanced medical facilities. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of the laboratory environment.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a pathology lab assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, along with basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education or certifications in laboratory technology or related fields. Strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to work with laboratory equipment are also important.

What are Pathology Lab Assistants?

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 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.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Pathology Lab Assistant, and how do they support the work of pathologists and laboratory technologists?

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 do pathology lab assistants do?

Pathology lab assistants support laboratory operations by preparing and processing tissue, blood, and other samples for analysis. They assist with specimen collection, maintain lab equipment, and ensure proper documentation, often working under the supervision of pathologists or lab technologists. Attention to detail and knowledge of lab safety protocols are essential in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington? For Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Pathology Lab Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Pathology Lab Assistant job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,697 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Histology Assistant 1

Histology Assistant 1

Inova Primary Care

Falls Church, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Inova Health System rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 882 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Inova Fairfax Medical Campus is looking for a dedicated Histology Assistant 1 to join their team!  This role will be Full time evening shift, Monday-Friday.

Inova is consistently ranked as a national healthcare leader in safety, quality and patient experience. We are also proud to be consistently recognized as a top employer in both the D.C. metro area and the nation.

Featured Benefits:

  • Committed to Team Member Health: offering medical, dental and vision coverage, and a robust team member wellness program.
  • Retirement: Inova matches the first 5% of eligible contributions - starting on your first day.
  • Tuition and Student Loan Assistance: offering up to $5,250 per year in education assistance and up to $10,000 for student loans.
  • Mental Health Support: offering all Inova team members, their spouses/partners, and their children 25 mental health coaching or therapy sessions, per person, per year, at no cost.
  • Work/Life Balance: offering paid time off, paid parental leave, flexible work schedules, and remote and hybrid career opportunities.

Histology Assistant Job Responsibilities:

  • Obtains and processes pathology specimens maintaining positive specimen identification, assist histology technicians, and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure the quality preparation of all specimens

  • Performs all clerical and computer tasks necessary to support the quality operation of the department.

  • Performs frozen section staining, cover-slip and appropriately label slides to aid in diagnostic evaluation.

  • Communicates to maintain team knowledge, demonstrates knowledge of regulatory standards in order to satisfy compliance requirements, and participates in professional growth opportunities to enhance personal, team, and department development.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Education: High School diploma or GED equivalent.

  • Years of Experience: No experience required.

We are Inova, Northern Virginia's leading nonprofit healthcare provider. Every day, our 26,000+ team members provide world-class healthcare to the communities we serve. Our people are the reason we're a national leader in healthcare safety, quality and patient experience. And from best-in-class facilities to professional development opportunities, we support them at every step. At Inova, we're constantly striving to be ever better - to shape a more compassionate future for healthcare. 

Inova Health System is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.


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