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Pathology Technical Assistant Jobs in Seattle, WA

Pathologists Assistant

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

CellNetix Pathology & Laboratories is a dynamic, rapidly growing private pathology company ... Under the supervision of the Grossing Supervisor and general technical direction of pathologists ...

Grossing Technician I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$27.25 - $35.43/hr

... Pathologists' Assistants and pathologists to ensure smooth work flow of the entire grossing ... Under the supervision of the Grossing Supervisor and general technical direction of pathologists ...

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Pathology Technical Assistant information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$21.6K

$50.4K

$87.1K

How much do pathology technical assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for pathology technical assistant in Seattle, WA is $50,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $50,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pathology technical assistant?

Pathology Technical Assistants are healthcare professionals who provide support to pathologists and laboratory technologists in medical laboratories. Their duties often include preparing and processing specimens, maintaining laboratory equipment, assisting with autopsies, and ensuring samples are correctly labeled and stored. They play a crucial role in the accurate diagnosis of diseases by ensuring specimens are handled properly and lab procedures run smoothly. This position requires attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory protocols, and adherence to safety standards.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a pathology technical assistant?

To thrive as a Pathology Technical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of laboratory procedures, specimen handling, and basic biology, often supported by an associate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with laboratory information systems (LIS), specimen labeling tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate specimen processing, maintaining safety standards, and supporting pathologists and laboratory staff efficiently.

What challenges do pathology technical assistants face, and how can they be managed?

Pathology Technical Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of specimens, maintaining strict attention to detail, and adhering to rigorous safety and confidentiality protocols. Balancing efficiency with accuracy is crucial, as errors can impact diagnostic outcomes. Effective time management, clear communication with pathologists and laboratory staff, and ongoing training in laboratory procedures help address these challenges. Staying organized and following standard operating procedures also supports a smooth workflow and reduces the risk of mistakes.

What is the difference between Pathology Technical Assistant vs Histology Technician?

AspectPathology Technical AssistantHistology Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certification may be preferredRequires an associate degree or post-secondary training; certification often recommended
Work EnvironmentHospitals, diagnostic labs, pathology labsHospitals, research labs, diagnostic laboratories
Job DutiesAssists in specimen collection, prepares samples, supports pathologistsPrepares tissue samples, processes slides, maintains histology equipment
Industry UsageCommonly employed in pathology labs for supporting diagnostic processesPrimarily in histology labs for tissue processing and slide preparation

While both roles support pathology and laboratory work, the Pathology Technical Assistant generally assists with specimen collection and support tasks, whereas the Histology Technician focuses on tissue processing and slide preparation. Both positions require related certifications and work in similar environments, but their specific duties differ within the pathology workflow.

Is there a demand for pathology technical assistants?

There is steady demand for pathology technical assistants due to ongoing needs in medical laboratories, hospitals, and research facilities. These roles require skills in specimen preparation, microscopy, and laboratory procedures, and employment opportunities are expected to grow with advancements in diagnostic testing and healthcare services.

What do you do as a pathology technical assistant?

A pathology technical assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing and processing tissue and fluid samples for analysis, often using microscopes and lab equipment. They assist pathologists with specimen handling, documentation, and maintaining lab cleanliness, typically working in a clinical or hospital setting and following safety protocols. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of laboratory procedures are essential for this role.

Where do pathology technical assistants make the most money?

Pathology technical assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for healthcare professionals, such as metropolitan areas or states with advanced medical facilities. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of laboratory work performed.

What are popular job titles related to Pathology Technical Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Pathology Technical Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pathology Technical Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pathology Technical Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Pathology Technical Assistant job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,376 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US

An unwavering pursuit of Excellence in Patient CareEvery Diagnosis, Every Day. This is what we stand for.

CellNetix Pathology & Laboratories is a dynamic, rapidly growing private pathology company headquartered in the Seattle area. We are one of the largest privately held pathology groups in the country, providing nationwide consultations, while retaining a strong commitment to local relationships and best-in-class service.

Our state-of-the-art Anatomic Pathology Central Laboratory provides our team with the most technologically advanced resources. In addition, our cutting-edge Molecular Laboratory with next-generation sequencing offers groundbreaking personalized medicine testing. Our lab continues to grow in technology and scientific advancement while offering our employees a wide array of training and career progression pathways in Administration, Laboratory and Hospital Support, Histology, Cytology, Infectious Diseases, Molecular, Grossing and more.

Our distinguished group of 60+ pathologists share expertise in more than 25 sub-specialties. Along with a dedicated team of nearly 300 staff, we offer one of the largest and most comprehensive service menus in the region. We attend the largest integrated delivery networks in the Pacific Northwest, including large tertiary care institutions and small community hospitals, as well as specialty clinics and private physician practices. Overall, the group serves nearly 50% of all Washington hospital beds, and over 20% of the beds in Alaska with distinction and, in so doing, affects hundreds of thousands of patients lives every year.

Our pathologists and staff are proud to pursue excellence as we put our patients first.

If this resonates with you, join our exceptional team in our pursuit of excellence.


Position Summary:

The purpose of the Pathologists' Assistant (PA) is to aid pathologists with the diagnosis of each case on the specimen level. Under the supervision of the Grossing Supervisor and general technical direction of pathologists, the PA is responsible for the description and dissection of all moderate and complex specimens, in a fast paced, high volume environment. The PA is also expected to maintain ASCP certification. The PA must adhere to HIPAA standards. Due to various environmental hazards presented in the workplace such as formalin, communicable disease, fresh human tissue, etc., employees must also adhere to strict Standard Operating Procedures and Personal Protective Equipment requirements.


Position Schedule: Position Schedule: Monday-Friday, 4pm - 12:30am. This shift offers an additional 5% shift differential compensation. 

There will be an initial training period, approximately 3 months, when the new hire will be training on an altered shift (day shift) prior to moving to their permanent shift schedule.


Essential Duties:

  • Triage specimens for gross dissection
  • Gross all types of surgical specimens, simple to complex
  • Gross Photography
  • Handling of certain tissue types for special studies
  • Troubleshoot including reaccessioning cases, auditing specimen codes, field questions from various laboratory departments
  • Assist with research as needed
  • Assist in training of new staff and competency assessments as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Basic PC skills including Microsoft Office Suite, and ability to learn new software
  • Demonstrate ability to perform effectively under pressure
  • Highly adaptable
  • Ability to prioritize
  • Ability to focus
  • Must be able to work independently
  • Strong personal skills

Qualifications/Experience:

  • Graduate of a NAACLS accredited Pathologists Assistant Program is preferred.
  • ASCP certified PA
  • Experience in a fast paced, high volume laboratory preferred. New grads encouraged to apply as this is an excellent place to gain expertise. 

Physical Requirements:

  • Standing for long time periods
  • Bending
  • Walking
  • Safely lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Computer use
  • Manual dexterity

Benefits:

CellNetix offers a comprehensive benefits plan.

  • Medical, Vision, Prescription company paid options.
    • Employee only HSA $29.86/per month or Employee only PPO $52.47/per month. Dependent plans also available.
  • Dental company paid options.
    • Employee only $0.00/per month. Dependent plans also available.
  • 401K company match up to 4%
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
    • 0-3 Years of Service: Accrue up to 15 days per year
    • 4-7 Years of Service: Accrue up to 20 days per year
    • 8-12 Years of Service: Accrue up to 25 days per year
    • 13+ Years of Service: Accrue up to 30 days per year
  • Holiday Pay
    • 6 paid holidays per year
    • 4 floating holidays per year
  • Company paid Life and Disability insurance.
  • Fully subsidized ORCA public transportation card and free parking at most sites.
  • Company paid Norton LifeLock Identity Protection.
  • Additional compensation for 2nd and 3rd shifts. 
  • CME allowance. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE: As a healthcare organization we are committed to providing a healthy and safe environment. We require a criminal history background check and drug test for all final candidates.

CellNetix is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy that all decisions involving any aspect of the employment relationship will be made without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, genetic information, the presence of a sensory, physical, or mental disability, or on any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. CellNetix is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know.

CellNetix follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination recommendations for healthcare workers in addition to applicable Washington State laws. At present, there is no mandatory Covid-19 vaccination requirement for Washington State healthcare workers but employees may be subject to specific hospital system requirements for Covid-19 vaccination along with other vaccinations such as Hepatitis B or seasonal flu vaccines. Employees may be asked to submit proof of vaccination or declination/exemption prior to or during employment. *Any federal, state or local laws or public health mandates with more stringent vaccination requirements will supersede CellNetix policies and/or procedures.