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

Position purpose The Laboratory Assistant is responsible for assisting staff with answering ... Distributing slides to pathologists * File blocks and slides * Filing paperwork * Discarding ...

Medical Assistant

Glenview, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Medical Assistant This role will travel between Glenview and Lake Forest Company Overview At DOCS ... Notify all patients of pathology and lab results * Scribe office visits * Administer IM, SQ, and ...

MOHS Medical Assistant

Glenview, IL · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

MOHS Medical Assistant This position will travel between Lake Forest and Glenview Company Overview ... Notify all patients of pathology and lab results * Scribe office visits * Administer IM, SQ, and ...

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Pathology Lab Assistant information

See Zion, IL salary details

$9

$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 Zion, IL is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $22.21 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 Zion, IL are hiring for Pathology Lab Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Pathology Lab Assistant job openings in Zion, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,505 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Pathology Lab Assistant II - Schedule: 40 hours, Mon - Thurs & Sun, 8pm - 430 am

Forefront Dermatology

Pleasant Prairie, WI • On-site

$500/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Forefront Dermatology rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

793rd of 898 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
The Lab Assistant II is responsible for accessioning specimens, preparing slide trays, filing of blocks and slides, and assisting with all aspects of lab organization and maintenance. Lab Assistant II employees have the educational requirements to pursue the Histotech HT/L certification program. This position offers potential for immediate and longer term career ladder opportunities supported by on-the-job training with corresponding increases in compensation.
Schedule: 40 hours, Mon - Thurs & Sun, 8pm - 430 am
Here are just a few things we offer:
  • Access to health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account $500 matching contribution
  • Eligible for PTO and Holiday pay
  • Company paid life insurance and long term disability (full-time only)
  • Access to voluntary short term disability insurance (full-time only)
  • Access to additional life insurance
  • Eligible for Accident and Critical Illness Insurance, Hospital Indemnity and Cancer Guardian
  • 401K with employer contribution
  • Profit sharing
  • Employee discounts
  • And much more!

Responsibilities
On-the-job training (OJT) will be provided for the following job duties you will perform:
Lab Order and Materials Management
  • Receive specimens and release orders using the lab information system (LIS).
  • Track orders on worklists and retrieve specimen materials for technicians.
  • File slides and tissue blocks.

Solution & Reagent Handling
  • Prepare alcohol solutions for tissue processing.
  • Change instrument staining solutions per schedule.
  • Recycle, neutralize and dispose of chemicals and solutions safely.

Specimen Preparation & Slide Production
  • Prepare specimens and materials for tissue grossing.
  • Once trained, embed tissue samples.
  • Clean, organize and prepare paraffin blocks for microtome cutting.
  • Assist with slide preparation, such as load/unloading staining and cover slipping equipment.
  • Assemble slide trays for delivery to pathologists.

Lab Maintenance & Quality Control (QC)
  • Clean equipment and tools according to schedule.
  • Record daily temperatures of lab and equipment.
  • Receive, stock, and inventory lab supplies.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Complete required compliance training and follow all procedures.
  • Perform other related tasks as assigned.

Potential for career advancement opportunities with corresponding pay increases
  • Become a Lab Technician with on-the-job training in grossing of tissue specimens.
  • Become a Lab Technician with on-the-job training in cutting/ microtomy for slide preparation.
  • Become a Histotechnician in approximately one year with on-the-job training coupled with completing a NAACLS certified Histology program and ASCP certification exam.

Qualifications
Education
  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a science related field required.
  • Previous experience in a lab environment is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Must be flexible with hours to meet work flow demands.
  • Knowledge of general medical terminology is preferred.
  • Ability to type a minimum of 45 wpm with minimal errors is preferred.
  • Must possess attention to detail.
  • Must possess excellent customer service, communication and organizational skills.
  • Must display a friendly, cheerful, tactful and polite demeanor and must be compassionate and caring in dealing with others.
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize appropriately, and work well both individually and as part of a team.
  • Ability to use time productively and contribute to high levels of company operational efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Ability to understand physician's instructions/handwriting and know when to seek additional information or clarification.
  • Ability to respond positively to constructive criticism and direction from supervisors.
  • Must demonstrate professional appearance and manner at all times.
  • Must remain compliant with HIPAA, OSHA, and CLIA requirements.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of information.

Physical Demands
  • Ability to communicate in an active multi-office environment.
  • Ability to efficiently operate all job related office equipment (telephone, computer, calculator, fax, copier).
  • Ability to communicate via telephone.
  • Ability to sit for large portions of a workday.\

#INDRAC
Forefront will never request personal information, such as your social security number or banking information, via text or email. In addition, Forefront does not use external messaging applications such as WireApp or Skype to communicate with candidates. If you receive communication or requests of this nature, delete them.
Forefront Dermatology is committed to providing equal employment opportunity and maintaining a workplace for employees and applicants that is free from discrimination based upon age, race, religion, color, disability, marital status, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact hr@forefrontderm.com to let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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