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Pathology Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UC Davis Health

Pathology Assistant 4

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$102K - $202K/yr

Worked as a Pathologists' Assistant in an AP Lab Setting. Key Responsibilities * 60% - SURGICAL PATHOLOGY * 40% - EDUCATION Department Overview The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is ...

Unio Specialty Care

Lab Assistant III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

UHP's best-in-class clinical program covers three sub-specialties (urology, gastroenterology, and radiation oncology) and offers numerous ancillary services, including pathology lab, in-office ...

Unio Health Partners

Lab Assistant III

Pasadena, CA

$26 - $30/hr

UHP's best-in-class clinical program covers three sub-specialties (urology, gastroenterology, and radiation oncology) and offers numerous ancillary services, including pathology lab, in-office ...

Unio Health Partners

Lab Assistant III

Pasadena, CA

$26 - $30/hr

UHP's best-in-class clinical program covers three sub-specialties (urology, gastroenterology, and radiation oncology) and offers numerous ancillary services, including pathology lab, in-office ...

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All JobsPathology Lab JobsPathology Lab Jobs in California

Pathology Lab information

See California salary details

$16

$34

$61

How much do pathology lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology lab in California is $34.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $41.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do I need to work in a pathology lab?

To work in a pathology lab, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or medical technology. For roles like a medical laboratory technician or technologist, certification and specialized training are often required, and some positions may require a master's degree or higher. Skills in laboratory techniques and familiarity with lab equipment are also important.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a pathology lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a pathology lab often encounter challenges such as managing high sample volumes, maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines, and ensuring strict compliance with safety and quality standards. Effective communication and collaboration with pathologists, clinicians, and laboratory technicians are essential to ensure accurate diagnoses and timely reporting. Staying organized, adhering to standardized protocols, and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges and support a productive work environment.

What jobs can you do in pathology?

In pathology, common jobs include pathologist, histotechnologist, cytotechnologist, laboratory technician, and laboratory assistant. These roles involve analyzing tissue, cell, and fluid samples using microscopes and laboratory equipment, often requiring relevant certifications and training. Pathology professionals work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and research institutions to diagnose diseases and support patient care.

What is the difference between Pathology Lab vs Medical Laboratory Technician?

AspectPathology LabMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in medical laboratory science or pathologyRequires an associate degree or diploma in medical laboratory technology
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, research institutionsHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs
Job RoleOversees lab operations, interprets results, manages staffPerforms tests, prepares samples, reports findings
Industry UsageUsed broadly in pathology and diagnostic servicesCommonly searched as a related role in medical labs

Pathology labs focus on diagnosing diseases through complex testing and often involve managerial roles, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform routine tests and sample analysis. Both roles are essential in diagnostic services, but they differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

What is the highest paying lab job?

In a pathology lab, the highest paying roles are often senior positions such as Laboratory Directors or Pathologists, who require medical degrees and board certification. These roles typically involve overseeing lab operations, interpreting complex results, and managing staff, with salaries significantly higher than technician or technologist positions.

What is the highest paying pathology job?

The highest paying pathology jobs are often in specialized fields such as forensic pathology, molecular pathology, or surgical pathology, with senior roles like pathology directors or laboratory managers also commanding higher salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, board certification, and advanced training, and they often involve leadership responsibilities and complex diagnostic work.

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

To excel in a Pathology Lab, you need a strong background in biology or medical laboratory science, attention to detail, and the ability to perform precise diagnostic tests, often validated by a relevant degree and certification such as ASCP or equivalent. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), microscopes, and specialized diagnostic instruments is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills help professionals interpret results accurately and work efficiently with clinicians. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure accurate diagnoses, patient safety, and the smooth operation of the laboratory.

What is a pathology lab?

A pathology lab is a specialized medical laboratory where bodily samples such as blood, tissue, and fluids are examined to diagnose diseases. Pathologists and trained technicians analyze these samples using various tests and techniques to identify infections, cancers, and other medical conditions. The results from a pathology lab are crucial for doctors to determine the most appropriate treatment for patients. Pathology labs play a vital role in both routine health check-ups and complex medical investigations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pathology Lab jobs in California? The most popular types of Pathology Lab jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Pathology Lab jobs in California? For Pathology Lab jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pathology Lab jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pathology Lab jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pathology Lab jobs? Cities in California with the most Pathology Lab job openings:
Pathology Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathology Lab job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,941 per year, or $34.6 per hour.
Lab Assistant II

Lab Assistant II

United Surgical Partners International Inc (USPI)

South San Francisco, CA

$25 - $29/hr

Per diem

Posted 12 days ago

United Surgical Partners International rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Laguna Hills Pathology Lab has a PRN Lab Assistant II opening at our Laboratory located in South San Francisco, California.

At Laguna Hills Pathology Lab,  we operate Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with no weekends or late shifts. With two specialized GI Pathologists on-site Monday through Friday, you'll have expert support. Enjoy ample parking and scenic views, including access to the bay trail and waterfront. Join our small, dedicated team of Histotechnologists and Lab Assistants for a rewarding career in a dynamic environment!

What You Will Do  (Job Summary):

The Lab Assistant II plays a vital role in implementing the laboratory's mission, goals, and objectives by embodying the lab's vision and values. This position supports laboratory operations by performing various technical and administrative tasks. Responsibilities include handling biological specimens, assisting with laboratory procedures, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

The starting hourly wage for this role is between $25.00/hr. - $29.00/hour, depending on experience.   


Required Skills
  • Associate degree in laboratory science OR at least 60 semester hours, including:
    • Minimum of 24 semester hours of science courses (at least 6 semester hours in chemistry and 6 semester hours in biology)
    • Remaining 12 semester hours can be a combination of chemistry, biology, or medical laboratory technology
  • Laboratory and/or histology experience preferred
  • Proficiency in high complexity testing, including grossing, as per CLIA regulations
  • Strong working knowledge of MS Word and Excel
  • Typing speed of at least 40 words per minute
  • High level of accuracy in all tasks
  • Ability to function effectively under time pressure
  • Professional demeanor and strong attention to detail
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination

Who We Are

We are part of a much larger team with United Surgical Partners International.    At USPI, we create relationships that create better care. We partner with physicians and health care systems to provide first class ambulatory solutions throughout the United States. We are committed to providing surgical services in the most efficient and clinically excellent manner.

USPI is committed to, and proud of our inclusive culture. An inclusive culture, in our view, is respectful of differences and nurtures and supports the contributions of each individual, while also embracing and leveraging diversity. A diverse workforce, combined with an inclusive culture, makes USPI stronger and better able to meet the needs of our diverse patient and physician population.


Required Experience

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