1

Pathology Lab Assistant Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Pathology Lab Assistant information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do pathology lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology lab assistant in Rochester, NY is $19.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.79 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 Rochester, NY? For Pathology Lab Assistant jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Pathology Lab Assistant job openings:
New Graduate - Medical Technologist

New Graduate - Medical Technologist

Rochester Regional Health

Rochester, NY • On-site

$34 - $45.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Rochester Regional Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 216 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Title: Medical Technologist - New Graduate
Department: Licensed Laboratory Professionals
Location: Based on openings
Hours Per Week:40 hours
Schedule:Evening or Nights Rotating weekends and holidays

SUMMARY

As a member of the professional medical team, accurately performs routine laboratory analyses on blood, urine, body fluids and tissues according to the approved protocols of NYS which require limited exercise of independent judgment, theoretical knowledge and responsibility. This testing is performed under the supervision of a medical technologist, laboratory supervisor, manager, or director of a clinical laboratory within a published turnaround time using a variety of instruments and methods following regulatory laboratory requirements

Laboratory and pathology services are vital to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. With convenient patient laboratory service centers, home lab services, expert pathologists and in-hospital diagnostics, we offer the full range of testing services to the communities we serve.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs routine clinical laboratory testing accurately under the direction of the on-site manager and as observed by the lead or senior technologist or designee.

  • May perform basic preventive maintenance, set-up and troubleshooting of equipment and instrumentation when required.

  • Performs all required quality assurance and quality control activities for manual and automated methods.

  • Adheres to all regulatory requirements as outlined in the department manual.

  • May communicate stat and critical lab results and prolonged instrument malfunctions causing delays in test results to physicians, nursing units and other appropriate medical personnel.

  • Maintain knowledge of required computer functions associated with ordering, performing, resulting testing and calling up various reports to assist in completing testing and the management of workflow.

  • Additional duties and responsibilities as requested by manager. Additional duties and responsibilities as requested by manager.

REQUIRED QUALIFICTIONS:

  • BS in Medical Technology.

  • New York State Department of Education License or Limited Permit as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist.

PREFFERED QUALIFICTIONS:

  • Certification by American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)

EDUCATION:

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.

For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.

Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.

PAY RANGE:

$34.00 - $45.50

CITY:

Rochester

POSTAL CODE:

14621

The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.

Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


What Rochester Regional Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom