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Pathology Lab Assistant Jobs in Fairfield, PA (NOW HIRING)

Pathology Lab Assistant information

See Fairfield, PA salary details

$10

$21

$31

How much do pathology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology lab assistant in Fairfield, PA is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $24.47 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 cities near Fairfield, PA are hiring for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs?

Cities near Fairfield, PA with the most Pathology Lab Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Pathology Lab Assistant job openings in Fairfield, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,687 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Medical Laboratory Assistant - Core Lab

WellSpan Health

Chambersburg, PA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


WellSpan Health rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 307 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Part time (40 hours/biweekly)
Shift: Day/Evening/Nights
Every other weekend, 2 holidays a year
Performs a variety of general support duties in specimen procurement, clerical, central processing, and/or other assigned areas at an entry skill level. Performs and interprets limited procedures in the Pathology Department at all times. May perform minor preventative tasks as well as ordering of laboratory supplies.
Responsibilities
1. Understands and follows hospital fire and safety procedures; knows personal role in case of a fire.
2. Understands and follows all departmental policies and procedures
3. Communicates with managers and co-workers
4. Assists with the restocking of supplies for the department.
5. Performs limited maintenance of laboratory equipment.
6. Rearranges workload if emergencies arise in the department.
7. Is responsible for assessing specimen acceptability according to Standard Operating Procedures...
8. Can assist with specimen ordering, receipt into the laboratory and tracking.
9. Demonstrates the process for accurate and complete patient registration into the computer system, with follow up phone call, if necessary, to physician offices to obtain necessary information.
10. Answers pneumatic tube-system, processes samples and delivers to appropriate departments
11. Correctly identifies and labels all specimen types. Understands and follows proper labeling placement on samples. Takes action to reconcile identification concerns.
12. Places samples onto designated instruments for testing by the technicians and/or technologists
13. Assists in preparation of specimens being sent to reference laboratories, i.e. pours off specimen into accurately labeled aliquot tubes, protects appropriate specimens from light, etc.
14. Files specimens in tube storage through LIS as directed.
15. Provides clerical support for laboratory.
16. Assists in the phoning and faxing of test results.
17. Scans/Archives documents as needed
18. Provides accurate and complete instructions to patients and other customers of the laboratory.
19. Accurately weighs and measures chemicals for specified specimen containers.
20. Exhibits and demonstrates a thorough understanding of and performs all staining procedures within the Microbiology and Hematology Departments
21. Does culture setup; plating specimens on appropriate media and incubates in required conditions
22. Performs waived testing as directed.
23. Understands and follows the process for specimen adequacy of sputum cultures.
24. Exhibits a thorough knowledge of safety requirements in the Laboratory as well as special requirements in the Microbiology Department
25. Exhibits and demonstrates a thorough understanding of rapid antigen testing within the Microbiology Department.
26. Cleans countertops a minimum of once per shift or as required to maintain a safe and sanitary environment.
27. Performs other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Qualifications and Standards
Education: High School diploma required; course work in medical technology, biotechnology, chemistry or biology preferred.
Experience: Experience applying customer service behaviors and communication skills required.
Certifications/Licensure: None required.
Benefits Offered:
  • Comprehensive health benefits
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Education assistance
  • Financial education and support, including DailyPay

For additional details: Benefits & Incentives | WellSpan Careers (joinwellspan.org)
About Us
WellSpan Health's vision is to reimagine healthcare through the delivery of comprehensive, equitable health and wellness solutions throughout our continuum of care. As an integrated delivery system focused on leading in value-based care, we encompass more than 2,300 employed providers, 250 locations, nine award-winning hospitals, home care and a behavioral health organization serving central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. Our high-performing Medicare Accountable Care Organization (ACO) is the region's largest and one of the best in the nation. With a team 23,000 strong, WellSpan experts provide a range of services, from wellness and employer services solutions to advanced care for complex medical and behavioral conditions. Our clinically integrated network of 3,000 aligned physicians and advanced practice providers is dedicated to providing the highest quality and safety, inspiring our patients and communities to be their healthiest.
About the Team
WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital
Established in 1895 and located in the heart of Franklin County, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital has long served its South Central Pennsylvania community with award-winning care. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital's 274-bed facility provides a community of 156,000 residents full-range inpatient, outpatient and emergent care services. The hospital is noted for its leading-edge technology and full range of medical services, including award-winning heart and stroke care, a cardiac catheterization lab, a family birthing unit and Level II NICU, inpatient rehabilitation, a wound center with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and surgical services, including robotic surgery. At WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, we work together to provide our neighbors with important health-related programs focused on disease prevention and management, early detection screening, and tools and resources to prevent disease through health fairs, seminars, children's events, "fun runs," and more. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital was one of several WellSpan hospitals honored by U.S. News & World Report with the High Performing recognition for 2022-23.

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