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Pathology Laboratory Assistant Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

... required. * Assist with specimen preparation including frozen sections and biopsies. * Maintain laboratory documentation and quality control standards. * Work with routine anatomical pathology ...

Pathology Laboratory Assistant information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$11

$22

$32

How much do pathology laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for pathology laboratory assistant in Santa Rosa, CA is $22.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $25.24 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 cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Pathology Laboratory Assistant jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Pathology Laboratory Assistant job openings:

Lead Pathology Assistant

Talented Medical Solutions

Saint Helena, CA • On-site

$2.8K - $3.0K/wk

Contractor

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Job description

Job Summary

Lead Pathology Assistant

Talented Medical Solutions

Contract

In-Office | St. Helena, CA, United States


Day Shift 5 x 8s - 40 hours, 13wks, EPIC BACKFILL.

Located in one of the most beautiful regions in the United States, the hospital was founded in 1878 and has a rich history of innovative medical care. We comprise a 151-bed hospital, emergency department, and medical offices, with centers of excellence in specialty care, including Heart and Vascular Institute, Coon Joint Replacement Institute, Martin-O'Neil Cancer Center, and Behavioral Health units. In the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a charming place, and the quality of life is unsurpassed with outdoor adventure, rejuvenation at luxurious spas, popular restaurants, as well as perfect weekend getaways to San Francisco or the coast.

Job Summary:

Processes a variety of laboratory specimens, including the majority of pathological specimens such as the preparation of tissue for numerous pathological test, gross examination and dissection of anatomic pathology specimens and the performance of postmortem examinations.

Job Requirements:

Education and Work Experience: High School Education/GED or equivalent: Required

Associate's/Technical Degree or equivalent combination of education/related experience: Preferred

Three years' technical experience: Preferred Licenses/Certifications: Certified by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent: Preferred

Essential Functions:

Assists with the daily operations including, but not limited to: histology, surgical pathology, cytopathology, transcription, review of daily logs, and monitoring pathology department charges.

Supports the pathologist in performance of autopsies and provides a report on the deceased.

Performs gross examinations and dictations on specimens received from surgical and non-surgical cases.

Assists in histotechnologist preparation tissue and cytology specimens for diagnostic examination by pathologists.

Conducts quality improvement, assurance activities and inspection preparation to meet Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) guidelines.

Maintains an orderly and clean work environment to include tissue waste disposal, rotating and dumping of stains and reagents. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Organizational Requirements:

Our facility is committed to the safety and wellbeing of our associates and patients. Therefore, we require that all associates receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment and annually thereafter, where applicable. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.