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Pathology Laboratory Assistant Jobs in California

Prime Healthcare

Laboratory Assistant

National City, CA

$23 - $27.29/hr

Etc. 12) Assist in Pathology with training and eval. 13) Runner. Education and Work Experience * HS Diploma or Equivalent required. * Minimum 1-year clinical laboratory experience performing similar ...

Prime Healthcare

Laboratory Assistant

Sherman Oaks, CA · On-site

$27.50/hr

Etc. 12) Assist in Pathology with training and eval. 13) Runner Education and Work Experience * HS Diploma or Equivalent required. * Minimum 1-year clinical laboratory experience performing similar ...

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Pathology Laboratory Assistant information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do pathology laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology laboratory assistant in California 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 does a pathology laboratory assistant do?

A Pathology Laboratory Assistant supports pathologists and laboratory scientists by preparing, processing, and organizing specimens for analysis. Their duties include labeling samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and ensuring samples are properly stored and documented. They also assist with data entry, supply management, and keeping the lab environment clean and safe. This role is essential for the smooth operation of pathology labs and helps ensure accurate diagnostic results for patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pathology laboratory assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pathology Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and basic scientific principles, often supported by a relevant associate degree or certification. Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), staining techniques, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and efficiency in a fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining sample integrity and supporting accurate diagnostic results in pathology labs.

What are some common challenges faced by pathology laboratory assistants, and how can they be managed?

Pathology Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as maintaining accuracy under time pressure, handling biohazardous materials safely, and managing large volumes of specimens. Staying organized and following strict protocols helps prevent errors and ensures the safety of both staff and patients. Regular communication with pathologists, technologists, and other team members is essential for smooth workflow and addressing any issues promptly. Ongoing training and attention to detail are key to successfully managing these challenges.

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

AspectPathology Laboratory AssistantMedical Laboratory Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in medical laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory support, assisting with specimen collection and processingPerforming tests, analyzing samples, and operating lab equipment
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, diagnostic labsHospitals, diagnostic labs, research facilities

Pathology Laboratory Assistants typically support laboratory operations through specimen handling and basic tasks, while Medical Laboratory Technicians perform more complex testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in diagnostic labs, but Medical Laboratory Technicians usually require formal post-secondary education and certification.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pathology Laboratory jobs in California?

The most popular types of Pathology Laboratory jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Pathology Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pathology Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Pathology Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pathology Laboratory Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,562 per year, or $20 per hour.

Pathology Laboratory Assistant III

Sutter Health

San Francisco, CA

$38.13 - $53.37/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Key responsibilities

  • Perform specimen and material receipt, preparation, distribution, storage, and disposal.

  • Support pathology personnel and pathologists during consultations, postmortem examinations, and routine testing.

  • Operate low to moderate complexity automated processing and testing instruments.

Sutter Health rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 330 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!

Organization:

CPMC-California Pacific Med Center Davies

Position Overview:

Integrates knowledge, theory and training to properly execute procedures in assigned areas of the laboratory. Responsibilities may include performing specimen and material receipt, preparation, distribution, storage, and disposal; patient visit registration and billing record entry; manual and automated processing of samples; loading/operating low to moderate complexity automated processing and testing instruments ; cleaning, stocking, and routine maintenance; supporting Pathology personnel and pathologists during consultations, postmortem examinations, and routine testing; providing customer service and assistance to clients, pathologists, patients, researchers, and other members of the patient care team; and other routine pre-analytic and post-analytic processes necessary to support health care providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prevention of disease. As a member of the laboratory team, works cooperatively with physicians, clients, and staff to facilitate superior patient care and to represent the laboratory positively by acting with courtesy, dignity, respect, and professionalism.

Job Description:

EDUCATION:

  • HS Diploma: High School Diploma or General Education (GED)


TYPICAL EXPERIENCE:

  • 2 years of recent relevant experience.


SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

  • Knowledge and practice of standard principles, procedures, views, and equipment related to handling of chemicals, pathogens, and other potentially infectious agents.

  • Knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology.

  • Possess written and verbal communications skills to explain sensitive information clearly and professionally to diverse audiences, including non-medical people.

  • Well-developed time management and organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize assignments and work within standardized operating procedures and scientific methods to achieve objectives and meet deadline

  • General knowledge of computer applications, such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel and Outlook) and related information systems (laboratory Information System (LIS), electronic health records (EHR), and EPIC.

  • Work independently, as well as be part of the team, including accomplishing multiple tasks in an environment with interruptions.

  • Identify, evaluate and resolve standard problems by selecting appropriate solutions from established options.

  • Ensure the privacy of each patient's protected health information (PHI).

  • Build collaborate relationships with peers and other healthcare providers to achieve departmental and corporate objectives.

Job Shift:

Days

Schedule:

Full Time

Shift Hours:

8

Days of the Week:

Monday - Friday

Weekend Requirements:

As Needed

Benefits:

Yes

Unions:

No

Position Status:

Non-Exempt

Weekly Hours:

40

Employee Status:

Regular

Sutter Health is an equal opportunity employer EOE/M/F/Disability/Veterans.

Pay Range is $38.13 to $53.37 / hour

The compensation range may vary based on the geographic location where the position is filled. Total compensation considers multiple factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications, departmental equity, training, and organizational needs. Base pay is only one component of Sutter Health's comprehensive total rewards program. Eligible positions also include a comprehensive benefits package.

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