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Surgical Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

UVA Health

Grossing Technologist

Manassas, VA · On-site

... surgical specimens within their assigned competency level, including submission of tissue for ... Certification as a Histology Technologist (HTL), Cytotechnologist, Pathologist Assistant or a ...

Forefront Dermatology

Medical Assistant - MOHS

Vienna, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

The Mohs Surgery Medical Assistant is also responsible for maintaining surgical instruments, processing pathology specimens, and ensuring compliance with clinic policies and regulatory standards.

Forefront Dermatology

Medical Assistant - MOHS

Vienna, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

The Mohs Surgery Medical Assistant is also responsible for maintaining surgical instruments, processing pathology specimens, and ensuring compliance with clinic policies and regulatory standards.

VSI

Physician Assistant - Spine Surgery

Reston, VA · On-site

$105K - $143K/yr

Complex spinal pathology, cutting-edge surgical techniques, and hands-on operative experience ... Physician Assistant residency and fellowship programs with diploma, ongoing mentorship ...

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All JobsSurgical Pathologist JobsSurgical Pathologist Assistant JobsSurgical Pathologist Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Surgical Pathologist Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$54

$89

How much do surgical pathologist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surgical pathologist assistant in Virginia is $54.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.12 and $66.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a surgical pathologist assistant?

A Surgical Pathologist Assistant is a trained healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a pathologist to assist in the examination and processing of surgical specimens. They help prepare tissue samples for analysis, describe and dissect specimens, and sometimes assist with autopsies. Their work is crucial in ensuring accurate diagnoses by preparing high-quality samples for pathologists to examine. Surgical Pathologist Assistants typically work in hospitals, laboratories, or medical examiner offices, and require specialized education and training in pathology. This role is vital to the pathology team and contributes significantly to patient care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a surgical pathologist assistant?

To thrive as a Surgical Pathologist Assistant, you need specialized training in anatomical pathology, specimen preparation, and gross examination, typically requiring a bachelor's degree in a related field and completion of a NAACLS-accredited Pathologists’ Assistant program. Familiarity with laboratory information systems, digital imaging, and compliance standards like CAP and CLIA is essential. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to multitask under pressure help professionals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate diagnoses, efficient workflow, and safe handling of patient specimens in a high-stakes medical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by surgical pathologist assistants in their daily workflow?

Surgical Pathologist Assistants often work in fast-paced environments where they must balance accuracy and efficiency while handling a high volume of specimens. Managing complex or urgent cases, dealing with delicate or large tissue specimens, and maintaining strict attention to detail can be challenging. Additionally, effective communication with pathologists, surgeons, and laboratory staff is crucial for ensuring proper specimen processing and timely diagnoses. Adapting to new laboratory technologies and evolving protocols is also part of the role.

What is the difference between Surgical Pathologist Assistant vs Histotechnologist?

AspectSurgical Pathologist AssistantHistotechnologist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., ASCP-PA), relevant educationCertification (e.g., HT(ASCP)), specialized training
Work EnvironmentPathology labs, hospitals, surgical centersHistology labs, research facilities, hospitals
Employer & IndustryMedical institutions, pathology labsMedical labs, research institutions
Job FocusAssisting pathologists, grossing specimensPreparing tissue samples, staining slides

The Surgical Pathologist Assistant and Histotechnologist roles share overlapping skills and work environments but differ in focus. Surgical Pathologist Assistants primarily assist with specimen grossing and support pathologists, while Histotechnologists prepare tissue samples for microscopic examination. Both roles are vital in pathology labs and often require similar certifications, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

How to become a surgical pathologist assistant?

To become a surgical pathologist assistant, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in a biological or health science field, followed by completion of a specialized training program or certification in surgical pathology assisting. Certification through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is often required or preferred, and relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of laboratory procedures, and familiarity with histology techniques. Some positions may also require experience working in a clinical or laboratory setting.

Is it worth becoming a surgical pathologist assistant?

A surgical pathologist assistant plays a vital role in assisting with specimen gross examination, documentation, and preparation for diagnosis, often requiring certification such as the ASCP. The position offers steady employment opportunities in pathology labs and hospitals, with a typical work schedule and the potential for career advancement in the medical laboratory field.

Where do surgical pathologist assistants make the most money?

Surgical pathologist assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater healthcare funding, such as metropolitan areas with large hospitals and academic medical centers. States or areas with a high demand for specialized pathology services often offer increased compensation for experienced assistants. Salary can also be influenced by certifications, years of experience, and the complexity of cases handled.

What are popular job titles related to Surgical Pathologist Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Surgical Pathologist Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surgical Pathologist Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Surgical Pathologist Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Surgical Pathologist Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Surgical Pathologist Assistant job openings:

Surgical Pathologist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surgical Pathologist Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,095 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Experienced Surgical Physician Assistant

Virginia Spine Institute)

Reston, VA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

VSI is the premier Center of Excellence for spinal health care in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. We are seeking an experienced Surgical Physician Assistant with 2-5 years of operating room experience to join our highly specialized team of spine surgeons and ten elite Physician Assistants.
This is an opportunity for an accomplished PA who enjoys complex surgery, thrives in a collaborative environment, and wants to practice at the highest level of their profession. You'll work alongside nationally recognized spine surgeons while caring for patients across the full continuum of care-from initial evaluation through surgery and postoperative recovery.
For more than 30 years, VSI has delivered exceptional spine care, improving the lives of over 100,000 patients through an unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, and patient-centered outcomes. Our concierge, out-of-network practice prioritizes quality, precision, and individualized care over patient volume.
Why VSI
Elite Surgical Practice: Complex spinal pathology, cutting-edge surgical techniques, and hands-on operative experience utilizing advanced spinal technologies, including robotics, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside experienced surgeons and fellow PAs in a highly supportive environment built on mutual respect, accountability, and shared clinical excellence.
Continuous Professional Growth: Benefit from ongoing education, collaboration, academic opportunities, and exposure to complex pathology that continually expands your clinical expertise.
Concierge-Level Care: Deep patient relationships, thoughtful decision-making, and the time to do things the right way
The Role
As an Experienced Surgical Physician Assistant, you will serve as a key member of the surgical team, managing patients throughout their spine care journey. This position combines a busy surgical practice with outpatient clinical responsibilities and requires strong clinical judgment, excellent communication skills, and a passion for exceptional patient outcomes.
Responsibilities
  • First-assist responsibilities in complex spinal procedures, including discectomy, disc replacement, spinal fusion, instrumentation, detailed anatomic dissection, and wound closure
  • Participate in technologically advanced spine surgery incorporating robotics, augmented reality, and AI-driven planning and execution
  • Perform comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning for spine patients in the office
  • Interpret advanced diagnostic studies including MRI, CT, X-ray, laboratory results, and other imaging
  • Educate patients regarding diagnoses, treatment options, surgical procedures, and recovery expectations
  • Manage postoperative care, including follow-up visits, medication management, and care coordination
  • Collaborate closely with surgeons and multidisciplinary specialists to develop individualized treatment plans
  • Participate in clinical initiatives focused on quality improvement, innovation, and exceptional patient outcomes

Qualifications
  • Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program
  • NCCPA certification
  • Active Virginia Physician Assistant license (or eligibility)
  • 2-5 years of Physician Assistant experience with significant operating room and first assist responsibilities required
  • Ability to thrive in a high-acuity environment with strong clinical standards and team-based support
  • Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and clinical decision-making skills
  • A genuine commitment to excellence in patient care

This role is ideal for a Physician Assistant who:
  • Has built a strong surgical foundation and is ready for a more advanced clinical role
  • Enjoys challenging surgical cases and continuous clinical growth
  • Values collaboration, accountability, and excellence
  • Wants to be part of a nationally recognized spine practice that embraces innovation
  • Takes pride in delivering exceptional outcomes and creating an outstanding patient experience

We are intentional about the people we bring onto our team and invest heavily in those who join us. If you are an experienced Surgical Physician Assistant looking to elevate your career while working alongside some of the region's leading spine surgeons, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply