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Pathology Lab Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital

Lab Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $26.43/hr

Clinical Lab Schedule: Day shift- 6am-2:30pm (primary shift and/or 9am-5:30pm with rotating ... Etc. 12) Assist in Pathology with training and eval, 13) Runner 14) assist in transcribing of post ...

Prime Healthcare

Lab Assistant - Specialty Lab

Evanston, IL · On-site

$22 - $29.61/hr

Specialty Lab * Schedule: Full Time Nights 10p-6:30a and rotating weekends * Facility: Prime Health ... Etc. 12) Assist in Pathology with training and eval, 13) Runner 14) assist in transcribing of post ...

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Pathology Lab Assistant information

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How much do pathology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology lab assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $23.80 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 are popular job titles related to Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Pathology Lab Assistant job openings:

Pathology Lab Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathology Lab Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,417 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Pathologists' Assistant, Anatomic Pathology Lab - Registry, Rotating Shift

The University of Chicago Medicine

Chicago, IL • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 29 days ago

University Of Chicago Medicine rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description


Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, UChicago Medicine, as a Pathologists' Assistant in the Anatomic Pathology Lab department. Here, you will be responsible for the gross pathology dissection, gross description and sampling of biopsies and complex surgical tissue specimens. Sampling and description is performed in accordance to established procedures to aid pathologists in obtaining the diagnosis. This department is the Anatomic Pathology Laboratory. This position is a 100% onsite opportunity. You will need to be based in the greater Chicagoland area.
In consultation with the Anatomical Pathology Manager, the pathologists, and the Medical Directors, the Pathologists' Assistant assists with resident and medical student teaching and may provide oversight of activities in support of basic laboratory operations including intraoperative consultations and autopsy services. The Pathologists' Assistant also performs biobanking duties such as coordinating, obtaining, and documenting tissue specimens to be used for research for the Human Tissue Resource Center (HTRC).
Essential Job Functions
  • Partners with section supervisor to ensure effective and efficient day-to-day operations of the laboratory department.
  • Assists with development and implementation of new and revised procedures.
  • Promote department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication and assists staff, faculty and other health professionals to identify and resolve issues.
  • Provides coverage in the absence of the section supervisor.
  • Prioritizes workload based on assignment or established priorities, responds effectively to changes in workflow adjusting work to incorporate STAT requests or fluctuations in work volume.
  • Prepares and dissects surgical biopsies and large complicated specimens in collaboration with the pathologist.
  • Prepares specimens for gross digital photography and photographs specimens while maintaining patient identification.
  • Executes and assists residents with intra-operative consultations.
  • Provides support and guidance for residents and technicians on autopsy services, such as organ evisceration, brain and spinal cord removal, and organ dissection.
  • Assists in distributing tissues and organs to approved researchers. Performs technical and clerical tasks related to research projects.
  • Provides patient-focused care in a clinical setting through the accurate performance of routine and complex tests through the pre-analytic, analytic and post-analytic stages.
  • Trains, assists and guides techs and pathology residents in gross description, dictation and dissection techniques, specimen handling procedures, data entry in the laboratory LIS, and safe use of instruments and equipment in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
  • Participates in hiring new staff and provides performance feedback to staff.
  • Participates in quality and process improvement efforts. Identifies ways to improve work processes, patient and staff safety. Make recommendations and review SOPs to implements and monitors changes as requested.
  • Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn-around times.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum of Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Graduate of a NAACLS accredited Pathologists' Assistant program (Master's degree) or OJT training with PA (ASCP) certification.
  • Pathologists' Assistant Certification (or eligibility) through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP): PA (ASCP).
  • Knowledge and understanding of dissection technique, equipment and methodologies.
  • Knowledge of digital photographic technique and equipment; experience with computer applications.
  • Ability to interact and communicate professionally with pathologists, pathology residents, other health care professionals, and laboratory colleagues.
  • Ability to work independently, maintain composure under stress and time deadlines, and exercise sound judgment during stressful situations.
  • Display leadership qualities including communication skills.
  • Able to handle large volumes of work within narrow timeframes and remain organized with a precise attention to detail.

Position Details
  • Job Type/FTE: Registry/PRN (0.20)
  • Shift: Any Shift - As Needed/Pick Up, No Weekends
  • Work Location: Hyde Park
  • Unit/Department: Anatomic Pathology Laboratory
  • CBA code: Non-Union

5815 S Maryland Ave
UChicago Medicine Mitchell Hospital - Hyde Park is a six-story hospital at the heart of our historic Hyde Park campus.
An integral part of our academic medical center, the Bernard A. Mitchell Hospital is home to a variety of specialty care, including our post-natal mother-baby unit, advanced imaging services, physical therapy services, dialysis access center and in-patient units. Other amenities include wireless internet, a chapel, an on-site restaurant and a gift shop.
About Us
We've been at the forefront of medicine since 1899. We provide superior healthcare with compassion, always mindful that each patient is a person, an individual. To accomplish this, we need employees with passion, talent and commitment... with patients and with each other. We're in this together: working to advance medical innovation, serve the health needs of the community, and move our collective knowledge forward. If you'd like to add enriching human life to your profile, UChicago Medicine is for you. Here at the forefront, we're doing work that really matters. Join us. Bring your passion.
UChicago Medicine is growing; discover how you can be a part of this pursuit of excellence at: UChicago Medicine Career Opportunities
UChicago Medicine is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and other legally protected characteristics.
As a condition of employment, all employees are required to complete a pre-employment physical, background check, drug screening, and comply with the flu vaccination requirements prior to hire. Medical and religious exemptions will be considered for flu vaccination consistent with applicable law.
Compensation & Benefits Overview
UChicago Medicine is committed to transparency in compensation and benefits. The pay range provided reflects the anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position.
The pay range is based on a full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) and is reflective of current market data, reviewed on an annual basis. Compensation offered at the time of hire will vary based on candidate qualifications and experience and organizational considerations, such as internal equity. Pay ranges for employees subject to Collective Bargaining Agreements are negotiated by the medical center and their respective union.
Review the full complement of benefit options for eligible roles at Benefits - UChicago Medicine.

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